Thick, chewy brownie cookies with shiny crackled tops and a surprise molten caramel center. These indulgent bites combine the best of cookies and brownies with rich chocolate flavor and gooey caramel perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re torn between brownies and cookies, these fudgy caramel-stuffed brownie cookies offer the best of both worlds. Their soft, brownie-like centers are studded with rich chocolate and filled with gooey caramel, making each bite a decadent treat. They’re perfect for dessert tables, gifting, or just a sweet chocolate fix with your coffee.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/2 cup unsalted butter
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
12 soft caramel candies (or 1/3 cup thick caramel sauce)

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chopped chocolate until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, beat together the sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract until thick and creamy (about 2–3 minutes).
Add the melted chocolate mixture to the bowl and stir until combined.
Sift in flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir just until a thick batter forms.
Scoop dough into portions and flatten slightly. Place a caramel candy in the center of each and fold the dough over to seal. Roll gently into balls.
Place dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are set but the centers remain soft.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring.
Serve warm for a molten center or allow to cool completely for a chewy caramel texture.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 cookies.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 12 minutes
Total time: 32 minutes

Variations

Salted caramel: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty contrast.
Espresso brownie cookies: Add 1 tsp instant espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
Nutty caramel: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for added crunch.
Stuffed with peanut butter cups: Substitute caramels with mini peanut butter cups for a twist.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for cookies.

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
To keep longer, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.
For a gooey center, reheat cookies in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of candies?

Yes, use a thick caramel sauce. Freeze spoonfuls before stuffing to make sealing the dough easier.

How do I prevent the caramel from leaking?

Ensure the dough fully encases the caramel and seal well before baking.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dough and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.

Why are my cookies too flat?

Make sure the dough is properly chilled if your kitchen is warm. Also, avoid overmixing.

Can I use dark chocolate?

Yes, dark chocolate will create a more intense, slightly bitter chocolate flavor.

Can these cookies be made without cocoa powder?

Cocoa powder adds depth. You could omit it, but the texture and taste will differ significantly.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes, fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chunks for added richness.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Double all ingredients and bake in batches.

Are these cookies freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze unbaked cookie dough balls or fully baked cookies. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter and chocolate, and substitute caramels with a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

Fudgy Caramel-Stuffed Brownie Cookies are the ultimate dessert indulgence, bringing together gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and a crackly cookie crust. Whether served warm or cooled, they’re a hit for any sweet tooth. Perfect for celebrations or a personal treat, these cookies deliver luxury in every bite.