Caramel Pecan Oatmeal Cookies

why make this recipe

Caramel Pecan Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the chewy goodness of oats with the rich flavors of caramel and nuts. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking to impress guests, treat your family, or just enjoy a sweet snack. With a unique twist on traditional oatmeal cookies, the combination of caramel and pecans adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that everyone will love.

how to make Caramel Pecan Oatmeal Cookies

Ingredients

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup light brown sugar (lightly packed)
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 (10 ounce) pkg caramel chips *see notes
1 cup pecans, roughly chopped

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a baking mat.
Using a stand or electric mixer, beat the softened butter and both sugars until creamy. Then add in the eggs and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until just combined.
Fold in the caramel chips and chopped pecans gently to keep the chunky texture.
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop 1 1/2 to 2 inch balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten them a bit with your fingers.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The centers will look undercooked. Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.

how to serve Caramel Pecan Oatmeal Cookies

These cookies are best served warm, allowing the caramel to melt slightly and create a gooey center. Pair them with a glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat. They are also great as a dessert after a meal or as an afternoon snack.

how to store Caramel Pecan Oatmeal Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer time, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.

tips to make Caramel Pecan Oatmeal Cookies

For softer cookies, do not overbake them. The edges should be golden, while the centers remain soft.
You can use different nuts if you prefer, like walnuts or almonds, instead of pecans.
If you can’t find caramel chips, you can use regular caramel candies. Just chop them into small pieces before folding them into the dough.

variation

For a chocolatey twist, add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough along with the caramel chips. You can also experiment by adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra flavor and texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture of the cookies may change slightly. Old-fashioned rolled oats give the cookies a chewier texture.

2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and make sure to use gluten-free oats.

3. Can I refrigerate the dough before baking the cookies?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. This can enhance the flavors and make the cookies even better! Just allow the dough to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and baking.