Why You'll Love It
- - The butter melts in your mouth, delivering a silky texture.
- - Caramel bits add pockets of sweet surprise.
- - Crisp edges provide a satisfying contrast to the soft center.
- - Simple pantry staples make it easy for any home cook.
*"These cookies capture the perfect balance of buttery crumble and sweet caramel—simply unforgettable!"*
Essential Ingredient Guide
- Unsalted butter: Choose a high‑quality butter, softened to room temperature for even creaming.
- Brown sugar: Adds depth and moisture; pack it loosely for consistent sweetness.
- Caramel bits: Stir them in at the end to keep their chewiness intact.
- Vanilla extract: A splash adds fragrant warmth without overpowering.
- Lemon zest: Just a pinch brightens the flavor and balances the caramel.
- Sea salt flakes: A light sprinkle on top enhances the sweet‑salty harmony.
Complete Cooking Process
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Ingredient Readiness:
Measure flour, soften butter, and have caramel bits on hand before you begin.
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Flavor Development:
Cream butter and sugars together until light, then fold in vanilla and zest.
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Texture Control:
Add dry ingredients gently; over‑mixing can make the cookies tough.
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Finishing Touches:
Stir in caramel bits and sprinkle sea salt just before baking.
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Serving Timing:
Serve warm for the softest center, or let cool for a firmer bite.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading.
- Use a silicone baking mat for even browning.
- Bake on the middle rack for uniform heat.
- Rotate the sheet halfway through for consistent color.
Pro Tips
When the timer dings, let the cookies rest on the sheet for a minute; they continue to set. Then transfer them to a wire rack. I often find that a brief linger on the tray keeps the edges delightfully crisp while the centers stay tender. It’s a small pause that makes the whole experience feel deliberate, like a gentle sigh after a warm cup of tea.
The essence of the dish:
A fun fact or historical angle:
Flavor or sensory focus:
You Must Know
- Keep butter at room temperature for smooth creaming.
- Do not over‑bake; they finish cooking on the tray.
- Cool on a wire rack to retain crisp edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, wrap the dough tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before shaping.
→ What if I don’t have caramel bits?
You can substitute chopped soft caramel candies or a swirl of chopped dates for a similar chew.
→ How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes and use parchment or a silicone mat.
→ Can I make these gluten‑free?
Swap the all‑purpose flour for a 1‑to‑1 gluten‑free blend; the texture remains pleasant.
→ What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days; add a slice of bread to retain softness.
→ Do the cookies pair well with coffee?
Absolutely; the buttery richness complements a medium‑roasted coffee beautifully.
Chef's Tips
If you prefer a chewier texture, add an extra 2 tbsp of brown sugar.,For a festive twist, drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies.,Never over‑mix the dough; stop once flour is just incorporated.
Nutrition Facts
per serving
320
Calories
4g
Protein
42g
Carbs
16g
Fat
Taste Profile
A sweet‑buttery delight with subtle caramel richness
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives
Will change flavor slightly; use a buttery variety.
Melt slightly during bake, offering a gooier center.
Recipe Variations
Try these delicious twists on the original
Spicy Version
Add ½ tsp ground cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne for a warm kick.
Mediterranean Style
Fold in chopped pistachios and a drizzle of honey after baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results
- Over‑mixing the dough, leading to tough cookies.
- Baking too long, which dries out the centers.
- Skipping the chill step, causing excessive spread.
Meal Prep & Storage
Make Ahead Tips
You can chill the dough for up to 24 hours; the flavors meld beautifully.
Leftover Ideas
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, covered, to revive softness.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this with...
Cooking Timeline
Gather and measure all ingredients; preheat oven.
Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
Add eggs, vanilla, and lemon zest; mix gently.
Fold in dry ingredients, then stir in caramel bits.
Portion dough onto sheets and bake.
Cool on rack, sprinkle sea salt, and serve.
Neiman Marcus Cookies Recipe – Classic Sweet Treat
These buttery cookies are studded with caramel bits that melt into the soft centers, while the edges stay crisp. A quiet indulgence that feels like a small celebration on any afternoon.
Timing
Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
12 Minutes
Total Time
32 Minutes
Recipe Details
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 01 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 02 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 03 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 04 2 large eggs
- 05 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 06 1 tsp lemon zest
- 07 2 1/2 cups all‑purpose flour
- 08 1 tsp baking soda
- 09 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 10 1 cup caramel bits
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each, then stir in vanilla and lemon zest.
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and sea salt; gradually fold into the wet mixture.
Gently stir in the caramel bits, then scoop tablespoon‑sized balls onto the prepared sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10‑12 minutes, until edges turn golden and centers are set but still soft.
Cool on the sheet for 1 minute, then transfer to a wire rack. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on each warm cookie if desired.
Notes & Tips
- 1 If you prefer a chewier texture, add an extra 2 tbsp of brown sugar.
- 2 For a festive twist, drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies.
- 3 Never over‑mix the dough; stop once flour is just incorporated.
Tools You'll Need
-
Mixing bowl
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Electric mixer
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Baking sheet
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Parchment paper
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Wire cooling rack
Must-Know Tips
- Don’t skip chilling – it controls spread.
- Use room‑temperature butter for even creaming.
- Taste dough before baking; adjust salt if needed.
Professional Secrets
- Room temperature butter creates a silkier crumb.
- Baking on a silicone mat yields even browning.
- Let cookies rest on the sheet; they finish cooking gently.
Recipe by
Mason Cole“Sweet cravings are my specialty! I turn sugar, chocolate, and imagination into pure dessert magic.” 🍰✨
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