Peanut Butter Cookies with Salted Caramel Drizzle Recipe

If you adore comforting desserts that are both nostalgic and exciting, these Peanut Butter Cookies with Salted Caramel Drizzle will steal your heart. Imagine soft, tender peanut butter cookies with that classic crisscross pattern, elevated perfectly by a luscious salted caramel drizzle that adds a magical sweet and salty twist. They are easy to make yet impressive enough to share with friends, family, or simply to indulge yourself with every bite. Trust me, once you try these cookies, you’ll be dreaming of them long after the last crumb is gone!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sometimes the simplest ingredients create the most unforgettable flavors, and that is exactly the case here. Each component in this recipe brings something special, whether it’s rich creaminess, tender texture, or that hint of warmth and salt that makes you smile.

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, providing rich flavor and a soft, chewy texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances the peanut butter’s richness with just the right touch of sweetness.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind everything together and gives the cookies a tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth that lifts all the other flavors beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Gives a gentle lift so the cookies don’t feel too dense.
• ½ cup salted caramel sauce: The irresistible drizzle that turns these into unforgettable treats with a sweet-salty contrast.
• Sea salt for garnish: Sprinkled on top to enhance the salted caramel and bring out the cookie’s flavor even more.

How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies with Salted Caramel Drizzle

Step 1: Preheat and Mix

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you get your dough ready. In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, the egg, vanilla extract, and baking soda. Mixing these thoroughly until smooth is key to achieving that perfect cookie texture.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Keep about two inches of space between each cookie because they’ll spread slightly. For that classic peanut butter cookie look, gently press each dough ball with a fork to make a crisscross pattern—this step feels nostalgic and is oh-so-satisfying.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges turn lightly golden while the centers stay soft. This subtle browning adds a hint of caramelized flavor without drying them out.

Step 4: Cool and Drizzle

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the sheet before transferring them to a wire rack so they can cool completely. Then, the magic moment arrives: drizzle each cookie generously with salted caramel sauce. Finally, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top to highlight that incredible sweet and salty harmony.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Cookies with Salted Caramel Drizzle

Garnishes

To make these cookies look as amazing as they taste, consider adding a few creative garnishes. A light sprinkle of crushed roasted peanuts adds crunch and extra peanut flavor. Or a tiny drizzle of melted chocolate can add a decadent touch that pairs beautifully with the salted caramel.

Side Dishes

These cookies are fantastic with a cold glass of milk for dipping, but why stop there? A scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream served alongside turns this into a dreamy dessert you’ll want to share every chance you get. Fresh berries can also add a subtle tartness that cuts through the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving these at a party, try stacking them on a pretty platter and lightly drizzling more caramel over the entire stack for a show-stopping centerpiece. You can even sandwich some salted caramel ice cream between two cookies for a delightful homemade ice cream sandwich that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Peanut Butter Cookies with Salted Caramel Drizzle in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and soft for up to 4 days, making them the perfect midweek treat when you want something sweet but quick.

Freezing

If you want to keep these cookies for longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Freeze un-drizzled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a sealed freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months and can be defrosted at room temperature before serving, then drizzled with warmed caramel just before eating.

Reheating

To enjoy your cookies warm and gooey, briefly microwave them for about 10 seconds or pop them in a warm oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. Warm caramel drizzle melts beautifully and will feel indulgent in every bite.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter adds a delightful nutty texture, making each bite even more interesting. Just keep in mind the cookies might be slightly less smooth but definitely worthwhile.

Is it necessary to refrigerate peanut butter cookies?

No refrigeration is required for short-term storage. Just keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay fresh for a few days. Refrigerate only if your environment is particularly warm or humid.

Can I make salted caramel sauce at home for this recipe?

Definitely! Homemade salted caramel sauce is simple to prepare and tastes incredible. You just need sugar, butter, heavy cream, and sea salt to get a fresh and luxurious drizzle for your cookies.

What can I substitute for the granulated sugar?

You can use light brown sugar or coconut sugar for a deeper flavor and a bit more moisture. Brown sugar will lend a molasses note that complements both peanut butter and caramel beautifully.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Because this recipe does not contain flour, these peanut butter cookies are naturally gluten-free, making them a great choice for gluten-sensitive friends and family.

Final Thoughts

These Peanut Butter Cookies with Salted Caramel Drizzle are the kind of treat that brings joy from the first bite to the last crumb. Their tender peanut butter base combined with that irresistible caramel-salty finish is pure magic. Whether for a cozy afternoon snack or a special dessert, I can’t recommend making these enough. Go ahead, whip up a batch, and share the deliciousness with those you love — you won’t regret it!

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