Caramel Frosted Brown Sugar Cookies

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked Caramel Frosted Brown Sugar Cookies wafting through the kitchen, don’t you think? I remember the first time I baked these delightful treats; I was completely mesmerized by how simple ingredients could create such warmth and joy. It was a chilly fall afternoon, and I had just returned from the local farmer’s market, arms filled with fresh produce and a craving for something sweet. The rich, buttery smell of the cookies mingled with the spicy notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, making every bite feel like a hug on a plate. These cookies became a staple in my household, especially during the festive seasons. Friends and family would gather, laughter echoing through the air, as I served these cookies, each one generously topped with a luscious caramel frosting. It’s a recipe that’s not just about the food; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with loved ones.

Essential Ingredients for Caramel Frosted Brown Sugar Cookies

The ingredients for these Caramel Frosted Brown Sugar Cookies are not only traditional but also essential to achieving that perfect cookie flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the overall outcome, ensuring every bite is as delicious as the last. The key players include brown sugar, which provides moisture and a deep flavor, and unsalted butter, which gives the cookies their rich, buttery base.

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – This is the foundation of the cookies, providing structure and stability.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – This is essential for leavening, helping the cookies rise and maintain a light texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – A small but mighty ingredient that enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, slightly softened – The star of the show, giving the cookies a rich, buttery flavor.
• 1 1/3 cups packed light brown sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
• 2 large eggs – These provide moisture and structure, helping the cookies bind together.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract – A beloved flavor that enhances the overall taste profile of the cookies.
• 2/3 cup sour cream – Contributes to the moisture and tenderness of the cookies.
• 3/4 cup chopped pecans – Adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut in chunks – Used for the frosting, enriching its flavor.
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar – The main sweetener for the frosting, making it smooth and delicious.
• 2 1/2 tablespoons hot water – Helps dissolve the brown sugar for a smooth frosting texture.
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup – Adds shine and helps the frosting stay soft.
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted after measuring – For sweetness and to thicken the frosting.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A touch more for the frosting to enhance the flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt – A final touch to balance the sweetness of the frosting.
• Chopped pecans for garnish – A decorative and tasty finishing touch.

Step by Step Instructions for Caramel Frosted Brown Sugar Cookies

Making Caramel Frosted Brown Sugar Cookies is a fun and rewarding process. You’ll find that each step brings you closer to a batch of delightful cookies that will surely impress. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare two baking sheets. You can either grease them lightly or line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a bowl, sift together 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Add in 1/4 teaspoon of salt and set this mixture aside for later.
3. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together 1 1/3 cups of packed light brown sugar and 1 cup of slightly softened unsalted butter until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Add the 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix until combined. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well mixed.
5. Next, lightly beat in half of the flour mixture. You want to mix until just combined. It’s okay if there are still a few lumps; we’ll take care of those soon!
6. Now, add in 2/3 cup of sour cream and beat until the mixture is blended well. The batter will become creamy and smooth.
7. Gradually add the remaining flour mixture, along with the 3/4 cup of chopped pecans, and beat until everything is well mixed. The dough should be thick and somewhat sticky.
8. Using a 1/8-cup measure or an ice cream scoop, drop dough in even mounds onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 1/2 inches between each cookie. Don’t forget to lightly flatten the tops using your hand or the back of a spoon.
9. Place one sheet in the upper third of the oven and bake for about 9 to 12 minutes. The edges should be turning light golden brown, while the center remains just barely firm. Once done, let the cookies cool on the pans for about 2 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
10. While the cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow it to simmer, stirring occasionally, until it turns slightly golden and smells fragrant, which should take about 3 minutes.
11. Stir in 1 cup of packed light brown sugar and cook for an additional minute while stirring. This will help create a smooth frosting base.
12. Next, stir in 2 1/2 tablespoons of hot water and 1 tablespoon of light corn syrup. Mix well until the sugar dissolves completely.
13. Finally, vigorously stir in 1 1/2 cups of sifted powdered sugar and the additional 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is completely smooth and well combined, adding 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt to balance the sweetness.
14. Frost the cookies while the frosting is still warm; sprinkle with additional chopped pecans before the frosting sets. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

When it comes to making Caramel Frosted Brown Sugar Cookies, there are always ways to enhance your baking experience. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time:

• Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and chewy.
• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked cookie dough for up to three months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Flavor variations: Experiment with adding different nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for variety.
• Frosting alternatives: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought frosting instead of making your own.
• Serving ideas: These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, but they also make a delightful afternoon snack!

Great Combinations for Caramel Frosted Brown Sugar Cookies

Looking for the perfect pairings for your Caramel Frosted Brown Sugar Cookies? Here are some ideas for serving these delightful treats:

• Pair with coffee: These cookies are fantastic with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea.
• Serve at gatherings: They make an excellent treat for birthdays, holidays, or family get-togethers.
• Accompany with ice cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
• Gifting: Package them in a decorative tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Seasonal flavors: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the fall flavor profile.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Caramel Frosted Brown Sugar Cookies are truly a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Their rich flavors and soft textures make them a favorite among family and friends. I encourage you to try making these cookies yourself; you’ll find that they not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also create wonderful memories in the kitchen. Bake a batch today and experience the joy of sharing these delicious cookies with your loved ones!

Caramel Frosted Brown Sugar Cookies

The ultimate comfort food sensation, these Caramel Frosted Brown Sugar Cookies blend rich brown sugar and buttery softness with a decadent caramel frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Make them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 24 servings

Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

• Electric Stand Mixer
• Rimmed Baking Sheets
• Parchment Paper
• Cookie Scoop
• Wire Rack

Ingredients

  

• 2 3/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 1 cup Unsalted Butter, slightly softened
• 1 1/3 cups Packed Light Brown Sugar
• 2 large Eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
• 2/3 cups Sour Cream
• 3/4 cup Chopped Pecans
• 8 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, cut in chunks
• 1 cup Packed Light Brown Sugar
• 2 1/2 tablespoons Hot Water
• 1 tablespoon Light Corn Syrup
• 1 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar, sifted after measuring
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 1/4 teaspoon Sea Salt
• Chopped Pecans for garnish

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare two baking sheets. You can either grease them lightly or line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• In a bowl, sift together 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Add in 1/4 teaspoon of salt and set this mixture aside for later.
• In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together 1 1/3 cups of packed light brown sugar and 1 cup of slightly softened unsalted butter until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
• Add the 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix until combined. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well mixed.
• Next, lightly beat in half of the flour mixture. You want to mix until just combined. It’s okay if there are still a few lumps; we’ll take care of those soon!
• Now, add in 2/3 cup of sour cream and beat until the mixture is blended well. The batter will become creamy and smooth.
• Gradually add the remaining flour mixture, along with the 3/4 cup of chopped pecans, and beat until everything is well mixed. The dough should be thick and somewhat sticky.
• Using a 1/8-cup measure or an ice cream scoop, drop dough in even mounds onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 1/2 inches between each cookie. Don’t forget to lightly flatten the tops using your hand or the back of a spoon.
• Place one sheet in the upper third of the oven and bake for about 9 to 12 minutes. The edges should be turning light golden brown, while the center remains just barely firm. Once done, let the cookies cool on the pans for about 2 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
• While the cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow it to simmer, stirring occasionally, until it turns slightly golden and smells fragrant, which should take about 3 minutes.
• Stir in 1 cup of packed light brown sugar and cook for an additional minute while stirring. This will help create a smooth frosting base.
• Next, stir in 2 1/2 tablespoons of hot water and 1 tablespoon of light corn syrup. Mix well until the sugar dissolves completely.
• Finally, vigorously stir in 1 1/2 cups of sifted powdered sugar and the additional 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is completely smooth and well combined, adding 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt to balance the sweetness.
• Frost the cookies while the frosting is still warm; sprinkle with additional chopped pecans before the frosting sets. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and chewy.
• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked cookie dough for up to three months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Flavor variations: Experiment with adding different nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for variety.
• Frosting alternatives: If you're short on time, you can use store-bought frosting instead of making your own.
• Serving ideas: These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, but they also make a delightful afternoon snack!

Keyword Brown Sugar Cookies, Caramel Cookies, Easy Cookie Recipe, Frosted Cookies

Previous PostAsparagus Salad

Next Post Easy Bruschetta Recipe

Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.