No-Bake Salted Caramel Cookies

These No-Bake Salted Caramel Cookies are a quick and delicious treat with a rich, buttery flavor and a touch of salt to balance the sweetness. Here’s how you can make them:

No-Bake Salted Caramel Cookies Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter
• 2/3 cup evaporated milk
• 1 (3.4 oz) package instant butterscotch pudding mix
• 3 1/2 cups quick oats
• Dash of salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (keep in the freezer until ready to use)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Caramel Mixture:

   • In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
   • Once it starts boiling, let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, still stirring to prevent burning. It should thicken slightly.

2. Add the Pudding Mix:

   • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the instant butterscotch pudding mix until it’s fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

3. Add Oats and Salt:

   • Stir in the quick oats and a dash of salt until everything is well combined. You should have a thick, sticky mixture.

4. Add Chocolate Chips:

   • Fold in the frozen semi-sweet chocolate chips. The cold chocolate chips will help them hold their shape as they mix into the warm, sticky dough.

5. Form the Cookies:

   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of the spoon.
   • Sprinkle a pinch of extra salt on top of each cookie for that perfect salted caramel flavor.

6. Chill to Set:

   • Let the cookies cool and set at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour, or place them in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to speed up the process.

7. Serve:

   • Once set, the cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.

Tips:

• For Extra Texture: You can mix in some chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) or crushed pretzels to add a crunchy element to your cookies.
• Make Ahead: These cookies are perfect for making ahead as they keep well in the fridge for up to a week.
• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free butter and evaporated coconut milk to make these cookies vegan-friendly!

These No-Bake Salted Caramel Cookies are the perfect treat when you’re craving something sweet, salty, and rich without having to turn on the oven! Enjoy! 😊🍪