Gochujang Caramel Cookies offer a delightful blend of sweet and spicy, bringing an unexpected twist to your typical cookie recipe. With a warm, chewy texture and a hint of heat from the gochujang, these cookies will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this unique treat is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Why We Love This Gochujang Caramel Cookies
You’ll adore these Gochujang Caramel Cookies for several reasons. First, the combination of sweet caramel and the subtle spice from gochujang creates a flavor profile that surprises and delights. This clever mix appeals to both those who love traditional cookies and those looking for something new and exciting. The chewy texture ensures a satisfying bite, while the testing of flavors provides a depth that you won’t find in standard cookie recipes. Moreover, these cookies are easy to make and perfect for sharing, making them a fantastic treat for gatherings or simply being enjoyed solo with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients for Gochujang Caramel Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons gochujang
- 1 cup caramel bits
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and gochujang until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Gently fold in the caramel bits until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- If desired, lightly sprinkle flaky sea salt over each cookie dough ball for added flavor.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are just set. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Gochujang Caramel Cookies
Serving Gochujang Caramel Cookies brings your baking to life, making for a fantastic dessert or snack option. These cookies shine as a stand-alone treat but also pair wonderfully with various beverages. Serving them warm, fresh from the oven, enhances their sweet and spicy flavor, making them hard to resist. You can also create a delightful dessert platter featuring these cookies alongside fresh fruit and some rich dessert sauces, like chocolate or caramel, for dipping. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider presenting these cookies with a selection of teas or coffees, allowing guests to indulge in a delightful beverage pairing. For an extra touch, you can drizzle some melted chocolate or caramel on top, adding visual appeal that will impress anyone lucky enough to taste them.
Expert Tips for Gochujang Caramel Cookies
To ensure your Gochujang Caramel Cookies turn out perfectly, consider a few expert tips. First, measure your ingredients carefully, especially the flour, as too much can lead to dry cookies. Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for the best results. Make sure your butter is at room temperature to incorporate air for a lighter texture, and avoid over-mixing the dough after adding the dry ingredients – this helps maintain a chewy cookie texture. If you want more pronounced gochujang flavor, try experimenting with the amount, but do so in small increments to avoid overwhelming the cookie. Additionally, feel free to chill the dough before baking; this can help the cookies maintain their shape during baking and enhance the flavors. Lastly, store leftover cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy.
How to Store Gochujang Caramel Cookies
To enjoy your Gochujang Caramel Cookies for as long as possible, proper storage is key. Once the cookies have completely cooled, place them in an airtight container. They can last for up to a week at room temperature, making them perfect for snacking throughout the week. If you want to store them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw them at room temperature for a delicious treat that tastes freshly baked.
Variations of Gochujang Caramel Cookies
Get creative with your Gochujang Caramel Cookies by exploring various variations. For a nuttier twist, fold in chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, into the dough for added crunch and richness. You can also enhance the spice by adding a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of chili powder to the dough, amplifying the cookies’ heat for those who enjoy a spicier treat. If you prefer a different taste experience, consider substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour; this adds a different flavor profile while increasing the nutritional value. For a sweeter bite, try adding white chocolate chips or chunks for a contrast to the spicy caramel. Lastly, experiment with different types of caramel by using flavored caramel bits, like sea salt caramel, to elevate the sweetness of the cookies even more.
FAQ about Gochujang Caramel Cookies
What makes Gochujang Caramel Cookies special? The unique combination of sweet caramel and the spicy kick from gochujang sets these cookies apart from traditional recipes. This unexpected flavor pairing creates a delightful surprise with every bite.
Can I adjust the spice level in Gochujang Caramel Cookies? Yes, you can customize the spice level according to your preferences. Start with a smaller amount of gochujang and gradually increase it until you reach your desired level of heat.
What should I serve with Gochujang Caramel Cookies? These cookies pair wonderfully with various drinks, especially coffee and tea. You can also serve them on a dessert platter with fresh fruit or sauces for dipping.
How do I know when Gochujang Caramel Cookies are done baking? Look for golden edges and slightly set centers as indicators of doneness. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I freeze Gochujang Caramel Cookies? Yes, you can freeze these cookies for up to three months. Store them in an airtight container, and they will be just as delicious after thawing.
Gochujang Caramel Cookies
Ingredients
Cookie Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Should be at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour Spoon into measuring cup and level
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons gochujang Adjust amount for more heat
- 1 cup caramel bits For chewy caramel flavor
- to taste flaky sea salt Optional for sprinkling
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and gochujang until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Gently fold in the caramel bits until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Lightly sprinkle flaky sea salt over each cookie dough ball if desired.
Baking
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are just set.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!