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These Frosted Caramel Oreo Cookies transform an ordinary afternoon into a gourmet occasion with their rich chocolate base, light-as-air Oreo cream cheese frosting, and a generous swirl of homemade salted caramel. With every bite you get everything from dark chocolate cake to tangy cream cheese and sweet-salty caramel—no fancy bakery needed.
The first time I made these I set out to impress some chocolate-loving guests but now my family asks for them just about every holiday. The caramel sauce was a happy experiment that turned into a must-have finishing touch.
Ingredients
- Granulated sugar: for building the caramel and giving the cookies their classic sweetness
- Water: helps dissolve sugar in the caramel and keeps it from crystallizing
- Light corn syrup: ensures a smooth caramel texture that will not seize or get grainy
- Heavy cream: makes both the caramel and frosting extra luscious. Use a good quality full-fat version for best flavor
- Pure vanilla extract: brings warm flavor to both the cookie dough and caramel sauce. Go for real extract instead of imitation for deeper taste
- Salt: balances sweetness in every layer and enhances all of the rich flavors. Opt for kosher salt if possible
- Unsalted butter: lets you control the salt and achieves a perfectly tender crumb
- Eggs and egg yolk: provide structure and richness. Use fresh, high-quality eggs for the best rise
- All-purpose flour: gives the cookies their shape. For chewier results, use unbleached flour
- Dutch-processed cocoa powder: creates deep color and intense chocolate flavor. Pick a reputable brand for best results
- Baking soda: helps the cookies rise to perfection
- Oreo cookies: infuse the frosting with that iconic flavor. Crush them to fine crumbs for the best texture
- Cream cheese: softens the sweetness and adds tang in the frosting. Use full fat for creaminess
- Powdered sugar: is essential for the smooth frosting. Sift for lump-free results
- Heavy whipping cream: loosens the frosting texture just enough
- Extra Oreo crumbs for topping: provide crunch and extra visual appeal
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make Caramel Sauce:
- Combine sugar water and corn syrup in a medium saucepan. Set over medium heat and let boil without stirring until the syrup turns golden brown. This could take 5 to 7 minutes so watch closely for color changes
While the sugar mixture cooks warm the heavy cream until just hot to the touch. You want to avoid cooling down the syrup when you add it
Remove the pan from the heat as soon as the caramel deepens in color. Carefully pour in the warmed cream while stirring constantly. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble vigorously. Stir until completely smooth
Transfer the caramel to a bowl and stir in vanilla salt and butter. Keep mixing until the butter melts fully and the caramel is glossy and thick. Let cool to room temperature before proceeding to prevent melting your frosting - Bake the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy removal
In a large mixing bowl beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy and pale. Take time for this as it gives the cookies their tender structure
Add in the egg and mix until fully combined. Add the extra yolk and vanilla and blend again. Scrape down the bowl as needed
Sift in your flour cocoa powder baking soda and salt. Mix everything on low speed just until there are no dry spots. Do not overmix as this makes the cookies tough
Using a large cookie scoop measure out dough portions. Place evenly on the prepared baking sheets and gently press each to just over half an inch thick. This ensures even baking and that picture-perfect look
Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes. When the centers look set but soft remove them. Let cool on the tray so they finish setting then transfer to a rack until completely cool - Make Oreo Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Crush Oreo cookies using a food processor or by placing them in a zipper bag and rolling with a rolling pin until very fine
In a medium bowl beat softened cream cheese and butter together until light and fluffy. Scrape down the bowl so there are no lumps
Add powdered sugar heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Start beating on low then turn up to high speed until fluffy and spreadable
Fold in the crushed Oreos gently. Stop mixing when you still see some streaks which gives the frosting a cookies and cream look - Assemble and Finish:
- Once cookies are cool spread or pipe a generous amount of the Oreo frosting on each
Drizzle the cooled caramel sauce over the top of the frosting making pretty swirls with the back of a spoon
Sprinkle with extra Oreo crumbs for crunch and serve at room temperature or chilled. Cookies are best stored airtight to keep them moist
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Storage Tips
Let assembled cookies cool and set before storing so the frosting does not smudge
Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. Refrigerated cookies last up to a week but lose some softness
You can freeze cookies before or after frosting. Layer cookies between sheets of parchment in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature and add caramel just before serving if freezing unfrosted
Ingredient Substitutions
No time for homemade caramel Use a store-bought salted caramel sauce instead.
Chocolate chips make a nice topping if you want an extra hit of chocolate
If you need to skip Oreos try chocolate wafer cookies or even golden Oreos for a twist
Cream cheese can be swapped for mascarpone for a lighter frosting
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies as a show-stopping dessert at birthdays family celebrations or holiday parties
Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of extra caramel for a truly decadent treat
Stack smaller cookies on a tiered platter for a beautiful cookie centerpiece
With their bakery-style finish they also make thoughtful gifts when wrapped up in parchment and ribbon
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Cookie Origins
This style of rich frosted cookie is inspired by American bakery traditions and the rising love for creative cookie shops. The addition of caramel and cookies and cream flavors brings a modern twist that always delights both kids and adults. Every batch feels like creating bakery magic at home with just a handful of classic ingredients
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, store-bought caramel can replace homemade in a pinch, though homemade offers a richer flavor and smoother consistency.
- → How should these cookies be stored?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week for best freshness.
- → Can I make the cookies smaller?
Yes, form smaller dough balls to yield more cookies; reduce the baking time slightly to prevent overbaking.
- → Is it necessary to chill the cookies before serving?
Chilling is optional, but serving slightly chilled enhances the frosting’s texture and balances the caramel.
- → What tools are recommended for preparation?
A stand mixer or hand mixer, baking sheets, spatula, cookie scoop, and food processor for crushing Oreos help achieve optimal results.
- → What dietary allergens are present?
These contain wheat, dairy, eggs, and soy. Always verify ingredients if allergies are a concern.