Cinnamon Swirl Caramel Drop Cookies
Some days just call for cookies… and not just any cookies. These Cinnamon Swirl Caramel Drop Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with warm spice and rich brown sugar flavor. But the best part? Each one hides a surprise gooey caramel center that melts perfectly as they bake. If cinnamon rolls and caramel candies had a cookie baby—it would be these. Whether you’re baking for a holiday tray, an after-school treat, or just to make your house smell amazing, this recipe brings cozy joy in every bite.
🧈 Why You’ll Love These Cookies:
- Buttery and melt-in-your-mouth soft
- Caramel centers for that gooey surprise
- Cinnamon-sugar coating for extra sparkle
- Easy to make ahead or freeze for later
📝 Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Filling & Coating:
- 12–14 soft caramel candies (unwrapped) or ½ cup caramel baking bits
- 2 tbsp brown sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon (for coating)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for sparkle)
- Optional: pinch of flaky sea salt or ¼ cup chopped toasted pecans
👩🍳 How to Make Them:
1. Make the Dough
In a large bowl, cream softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.
2. Shape & Fill
Scoop dough into 2-tablespoon portions, flatten slightly, and place one caramel in the center. Wrap the dough around the caramel and roll into a ball, sealing completely.
3. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Mix the coating sugars and roll each dough ball generously in the mixture.
4. Bake to Golden Perfection
Place cookies 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set and golden but the centers remain soft. Let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
5. Optional Finishing Touches
Drizzle with caramel or cinnamon glaze, sprinkle with sea salt, or top with toasted pecans for a bakery-style upgrade.
💡 Tips for Cookie Success:
- Want thicker cookies? Chill the dough 30 minutes before baking.
- Prefer thinner cookies? Skip the chill and bake immediately.
- Make-ahead magic: Freeze the dough balls (caramel inside!) and bake from frozen. Just add 1–2 minutes to the bake time.
- Avoid spreading: If your dough feels too warm or soft, chill before scooping.
