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There’s nothing quite like the enticing aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen, drawing everyone in like a warm hug. That’s exactly the kind of magic you’ll experience with my Chocolate Caramel Blossoms – those irresistible cookies adorned with a gooey Hershey Caramel Kiss on top. I stumbled upon this recipe during a cozy afternoon spent sifting through family favorites, and let me tell you, it was a delightful discovery!

Perfect for holiday gatherings or a simple sweet treat to brighten any day, these cookies are as easy to make as they are delicious. Soft, chocolatey, and rolled in sugar, each bite is a heavenly combination of textures and flavors, like a warm embrace on a chilly day. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just dipping your toes into the world of baking, these Chocolate Caramel Blossoms are sure to become a cherished part of your recipe repertoire!

Why are Chocolate Caramel Blossoms a must-try?

Irresistible Flavor: These cookies blend soft, chocolatey goodness with the gooey delight of a Hershey Caramel Kiss, creating a heavenly taste sensation.
Simple to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even baking novices will shine in the kitchen!
Versatile Twist: Feel free to experiment with different toppings, like Rolos or flavored sugars, for personalized treats.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for sharing at gatherings, holiday events, or just because—you won’t be able to keep these delicious bites to yourself!
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the dough in advance for stress-free baking anytime you crave something sweet. Enjoy on its own with a glass of milk or check out our serving suggestions for more ideas!

Chocolate Caramel Blossoms Ingredients

For the Cookies

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and stability; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
Baking Powder – A fresh leavening agent that helps cookies rise beautifully.
Ground Cinnamon – Enhances the chocolate flavor with warmth; omit if allergic or preferred against it.
Salt – Balances sweetness; can use kosher salt as a substitute.
Dutch Process Baking Cocoa – Offers a rich, deep chocolate flavor; regular unsweetened cocoa can be a suitable swap.
Unsalted Butter – Ensures a rich and moist cookie base; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; you can also use colored sugar for rolling!
Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of molasses flavor; dark brown sugar can be used for an even richer taste.
Large Egg – Binds ingredients together; for a vegan option, substitute with flaxseed meal mixed with water.
Milk – Helps to bind the dough; any type of milk or plant-based alternative works well.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; almond extract can be used for a twist or omit for an alcohol-free version.

For the Topping

Hershey Caramel Kisses – The signature topping; try substituting with Rolos or other chocolate candies if unavailable.
Sea Salt Flakes (optional) – Offers a delightful flavor contrast; can be omitted for a solely sweet cookie.

For Optional Variations

Salted Caramel Sugar (optional) – A delightful mix of granulated sugar, sea salt, and caramel extract; enhances flavor beautifully.
Dark Cocoa Sugar (optional) – Elevates chocolate flavor while coating; simply combine cocoa into sugar.

Dive into making your Chocolate Caramel Blossoms – you won’t regret it!

How to Make Chocolate Caramel Blossoms

Prep Dry Ingredients: Whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, salt, and Dutch process cocoa in a medium bowl until well combined. Set this bowl aside, allowing the spices to mingle and intensify their flavors.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a mixer, beat the room temperature unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process should take about 2-3 minutes; you want it airy and full of promise!
Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the large egg, milk, and vanilla extract to your creamed mixture. Mix well, ensuring everything is combined and scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary for even blending.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until it forms a thick, cohesive dough. This consistency is crucial for perfectly shaped cookies that hold together during baking.
Chill Dough: Wrap the cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you have time. Chilling prevents spreading and enhances the flavors as they meld together.
Preheat Oven: Adjust your oven rack to the center position and preheat your oven to 375°F. Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy release and cleanup later.
Shape Cookies: Scoop out the dough and roll it into 1-inch balls. Drench each ball in granulated sugar before placing them 2 inches apart on your prepared cookie sheets. Sprinkle with sea salt flakes if desired for an extra flavor hit.
Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 6-8 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Quickly remove them from the oven, press a Hershey Caramel Kiss onto the center of each cookie, and return them to the oven for an additional 2 minutes.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This step lets them firm up while still warm and soft.

Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an elegant finishing touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Caramel Blossoms are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. This chilling step not only enhances the flavors but also prevents the dough from spreading too much while baking. Additionally, if you want to take your prep even further, you can freeze the shaped cookie balls in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen balls on a baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll have freshly baked cookies at your fingertips with minimal effort, making them just as delicious!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Caramel Blossoms

Chill the Dough: Ensure the dough is well-chilled to prevent excessive spreading during baking. This keeps your cookies thick and chewy.
Room Temperature Butter: Always use room-temperature unsalted butter when creaming; it helps to incorporate air, making your cookies soft and fluffy.
Press Gently: When adding the Hershey Caramel Kisses, press them gently into the center of each cookie to ensure they meld perfectly without overwhelming the cookie base.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be soft in the center and just set around the edges for that ideal texture.
Storage Tips: Store baked Chocolate Caramel Blossoms in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain their soft, chewy texture.

What to Serve with Chocolate Caramel Blossoms?

There’s nothing like a cozy gathering filled with sweet treats, and these delightful cookies are just the start of creating a delicious spread.

Cold Milk:
A classic pairing that enhances the cookies’ sweetness, milk offers a refreshing contrast to the chocolate and caramel.
Rich Coffee:
The deep flavors of a brewed coffee amplify the chocolate notes while balancing the sweetness; perfect for any time of day!
Whipped Cream:
For a luxurious touch, serve these cookies with fluffy whipped cream; it adds a light, airy texture that plays beautifully with the cookies’ richness.
Ice Cream Sundae:
Top vanilla or chocolate ice cream with a drizzle of caramel and bits of the cookie, creating a dreamy dessert experience that’s hard to resist.
Fresh Berries:
The tartness of raspberries or strawberries cuts through the sweetness of the cookies, providing a refreshing burst of flavor that enhances every bite.
Chocolate Ganache:
For a decadent finish, serve with a side of warm chocolate ganache for dipping, taking your Chocolate Caramel Blossoms to an indulgent new level.
Sparkling Water:
A bubbly sip cleanses the palate beautifully in between bites, keeping the flavor adventure fresh and exciting.
Festive Fruit Platter:
Seasonal fruits like apples, pears, or citrus bring a vibrant touch to your dessert table and balance the cookies’ sweetness with natural tartness.

Storage Tips for Chocolate Caramel Blossoms

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Ensure they’re well-sealed to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying again.
Reheating: To warm up your cookies, microwave for about 10-15 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 minutes. Enjoy the gooey goodness of the Chocolate Caramel Blossoms!

Chocolate Caramel Blossoms Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Chocolate Caramel Blossoms, adding your own twist to this beloved recipe!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil for a deliciously creamy texture without dairy.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a cookie that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an added crunch and flavor enhancement.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the dough for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Different Chocolates: Try topping with dark chocolate or white chocolate Kisses to create a unique flavor adventure with every bite.
Choco-Coconut Bliss: Mix shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
S’mores Style: Add mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers into the dough, and top with a Hershey chocolate square for a s’mores-inspired cookie.
Fruit Infusion: Fold in dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a tart contrast to the rich chocolate and caramel.

Each variation allows you to personalize your baking experience while keeping that cherished warm essence of Chocolate Caramel Blossoms!

Chocolate Caramel Blossoms Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for the Chocolate Caramel Blossoms?
You can use all-purpose flour for these cookies, which provides the right structure and stability. If you’re gluten-sensitive or looking for a gluten-free option, I recommend a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it is suitable for baking to enjoy the same soft and chewy texture!

How should I store my Chocolate Caramel Blossoms?
Place the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will help keep them fresh and delicious. For longer storage, feel free to refrigerate them in a sealed container for about a week, ensuring they don’t dry out.

Can I freeze Chocolate Caramel Blossoms?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, first let them cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for that freshly baked taste!

What can I do if my cookies spread too much during baking?
If your Chocolate Caramel Blossoms spread excessively, it might be due to warm dough or not chilling it long enough. Make sure to chill the dough for at least one hour before baking to allow the butter to firm up. If you notice spreading, next time, chill for a bit longer—overnight can work wonders—or consider adding a little more flour to the dough for stabilization.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
The Chocolate Caramel Blossoms contain common allergens, such as eggs and dairy. For a vegan version, substitute the large egg with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Additionally, use coconut oil or margarine in place of butter. Always be cautious of allergies, especially with the Hershey Caramel Kisses and any substituted candy.

Can I use different types of sugar in this recipe?
Certainly! You can switch out granulated sugar for light brown sugar or use a combination of both for a deeper flavor and added moisture. For a festive look, use colored sugar for rolling the cookie balls before baking. Just remember that the type of sugar can slightly affect texture, so feel free to experiment!