Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 2 cups (260g) all-purpose flour (measured properly)
- 1 cup (134g) graham cracker crumbs
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup (168g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (104g) sugar
- 1/2 cup (112g) packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- Additional 1/4 cup (34g) graham cracker crumbs, for rolling
For the Cheesecake Topping
- 10 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 3/4 cups (201g) powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Salted Caramel Sauce
- (Ingredients for salted caramel sauce were referenced but not specified in the article; a typical salted caramel sauce includes sugar, butter, heavy cream, and sea salt.)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prepare for baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter with both white sugar and light brown sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light in color and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet bowl and mix until the dough comes together into a thick, cohesive ball. Avoid overmixing.
- Form Dough Balls: Divide the dough into 8 balls, each approximately 6 tablespoons (105g). Roll each ball in the additional 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs to coat.
- Prepare Cookies for Baking: Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets spaced evenly. Gently press down each ball slightly using the bottom of a cup to about 2 1/2 inches in diameter, allowing for some cracks around the edges.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes or until they appear done and are just starting to turn golden on the edges.
- Cool Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 to 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before adding toppings.
- Prepare Salted Caramel Sauce: While cookies bake and cool, make the salted caramel sauce by melting sugar over medium heat until amber, then adding butter, stirring until melted, removing from heat, and slowly mixing in heavy cream and sea salt. Allow the caramel sauce to cool to room temperature or slightly cooler.
- Make Cheesecake Topping: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble Cookies: Once cookies and caramel sauce are cooled, pipe or spread the cheesecake topping over the cookies. Drizzle or spread the salted caramel sauce on top.
- Storage: Store the finished cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Serve the cookies chilled but not too cold for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Do not overmix the cookie dough to avoid tough cookies.
- Make sure the caramel sauce is cool before applying on cheesecake topping to prevent dripping.
- Room temperature ingredients like butter and cream cheese help achieve a smooth mixture.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking during baking.
- Press dough balls gently; they will spread during baking so do not flatten too much.
- Serve cookies slightly chilled but allow them to come to near room temperature before eating for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American