These No-Bake Salted Caramel Cookies are a decadent, easy-to-make treat that combines rich caramel, crunchy nuts, and a hint of sea salt. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without turning on the oven!
Makes: 18-20 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (or almond butter for a nuttier flavor)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar , packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or almonds (optional, for crunch)
- Flaky sea salt , for topping
For the Salted Caramel Drizzle (Optional):
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Cookie Base
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the peanut butter, butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and the sugars have dissolved, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the rolled oats and chopped nuts (if using). Mix until the oats and nuts are evenly coated with the caramel-like mixture.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
- Use a spoon or small cookie scoop to drop rounded portions of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Gently press down on each portion with the back of the spoon to flatten slightly into cookie shapes.
- Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the top of each cookie.
Step 3: Chill the Cookies
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill the cookies for at least 30 minutes , or until they are firm and set.
Step 4: Add the Salted Caramel Drizzle (Optional)
- If desired, drizzle caramel sauce over the chilled cookies using a spoon or piping bag.
- Immediately sprinkle a tiny bit of flaky sea salt over the caramel drizzle for a beautiful finishing touch.
Step 5: Serve and Store
- Once the cookies are firm, transfer them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week .
- Let the cookies sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Tips for Success:
- Customize the flavors: Swap the nuts for shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips, or dried fruit for a fun twist.
- Make it vegan: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free caramel sauce, and coconut cream for a vegan version.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the mixture before shaping the cookies and adjust the sugar or add a pinch of salt if needed.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, makes 20):
- Calories: ~150
- Protein: ~3g
- Carbohydrates: ~15g
- Fat: ~9g
Enjoy these No-Bake Salted Caramel Cookies as a quick, indulgent treat! They’re perfect for gifting, parties, or simply satisfying your cravings. 🍪✨