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Experience bakery-quality cookies at home with these decadent Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies. This recipe perfectly balances a buttery graham cracker base with smooth cream cheese frosting and rich salted caramel drizzle for an irresistible handheld dessert.
The key to achieving authentic bakery-style results lies in using quality graham crackers and properly chilling the cream cheese frosting component.
Key Ingredients
- Graham crackers: Pulverized into fine crumbs
- Cream cheese: Full-fat, softened
- Unsalted butter: High quality
- Pure vanilla extract: Real, not artificial
- Caramel sauce: Rich and thick
- Sea salt flakes: For finishing
- All-purpose flour: Standard baking flour
Preparation Method
- Base Preparation:
- Beat butter until fluffy. Incorporate sugars gradually. Add egg and vanilla. Mix in dry ingredients.
- Form Cookies:
- Scoop dough portions. Coat with graham crumbs. Press to shape. Space on baking sheet. Create indent.
- Make Frosting:
- Whip cream cheese until smooth. Add softened butter. Mix in sugar. Blend until fluffy. Refrigerate.
- Finish Cookies:
- Let cookies cool. Add frosting. Create well. Add caramel. Sprinkle salt.
- Final Steps:
- Refrigerate briefly. Arrange on platter. Add garnish. Serve chilled.
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This recipe combines classic cheesecake flavors with salted caramel in a convenient cookie format.
Temperature Control
Proper temperature management yields optimal results. Use room-temperature ingredients for the dough, while keeping the frosting well-chilled. Allow cookies to cool completely before applying toppings.
Advance Preparation
Components can be prepared ahead. Cookie bases freeze well for up to two months unfrosted. Frosting stays fresh refrigerated for one week. Assemble just before serving.
Storage Guidelines
Store assembled cookies in airtight containers with parchment paper between layers. Keep refrigerated for optimal freshness. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Serving Ideas
Present on decorative platters for gatherings. Pair with fresh fruit or arrange on dessert boards. Consider as an alternative to traditional celebration cakes.
Recipe Variations
Try adding cinnamon to enhance graham flavor. Incorporate dark chocolate drizzle for extra richness. Add seasonal decorations for holiday appeal.
Common Solutions
Refrigerate soft frosting to firm up. Chill dough if cookies spread too much. Test one cookie first to calibrate baking time.
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Perfect for special occasions, these cookies blend classic graham cracker base with rich cream cheese frosting and salted caramel for an exceptional dessert experience. They consistently receive praise whether served at events or given as gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I bake these cookies in advance?
- Absolutely! Store them in the fridge inside an airtight container for up to 5 days. They’re delicious either chilled or at room temperature.
- → What’s the reason for using graham crackers twice?
- Mixing graham crackers into your dough boosts the flavor, while coating the cookies creates that cheesecake crust feel we love.
- → Do I need a specific brand of sugar to make these?
- Not at all. Any brand of granulated, powdered, or brown sugar will work perfectly in this recipe.
- → Can store-bought caramel work in a pinch?
- Of course! While homemade caramel sauce tastes incredible, a good-quality store-bought one does the trick, too.
- → Why let the cookies rest on the baking sheet after they come out of the oven?
- Letting them sit on the sheet helps them firm up so they don’t fall apart when handled, since they’ll be soft right out of the oven.