Soft, Chewy, and Drenched in Dreamy Caramel

If you're a fan of melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter cookies and buttery caramel sauce, get ready to fall in love. These Peanut Butter Caramel Drizzle Cookies are the perfect harmony of sweet, salty, soft, and gooey. The base is a rich, chewy peanut butter cookie with just the right amount of bite—then each one is finished with a silky caramel drizzle that takes them completely over the top.

They're indulgent but incredibly easy to make, making them ideal for bake sales, holidays, or when you just need a little sweet comfort.

🌟 Why This Recipe Works

  • Soft & Chewy Texture: The perfect blend of brown sugar and peanut butter keeps the cookies moist and tender.

  • Rich Peanut Flavor: Creamy peanut butter infuses every bite with depth and nuttiness.

  • Golden Caramel Drizzle: Homemade or store-bought caramel adds buttery sweetness and a little wow factor.

  • Quick & Simple: No chilling required—just mix, scoop, bake, and drizzle.

  • Crowd-Pleasing Combo: Everyone loves the peanut butter and caramel duo, making this a guaranteed hit.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookies

  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour

  • ½ tsp baking soda

  • ¼ tsp salt

  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • ½ cup light brown sugar, packed

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter

  • 1 large egg

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Caramel Drizzle

  • ½ cup soft caramels (store-bought or homemade)

  • 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk

  • Optional: Pinch of sea salt for garnish

💡 Want to make the caramel from scratch? I can share a quick stovetop caramel sauce if you'd like!

🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Cream the Butter, Sugars, and Peanut Butter

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the peanut butter and beat until smooth.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.

Flatten slightly with your fingers or the back of a spoon (peanut butter cookies don’t spread much). Optional: use a fork to press a criss-cross pattern on top.

Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft. Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the Caramel Drizzle

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine soft caramels and cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth (about 1–1½ minutes total).

Step 7: Drizzle and Finish

Use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle warm caramel over cooled cookies. Let the caramel set for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Optional: Sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty finish.

🔄 Variations to Try

  • Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half the cookie in melted chocolate before drizzling caramel.

  • Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped roasted peanuts for added texture.

  • Caramel Core: Press a caramel candy into the center of each dough ball before baking for a gooey surprise.

  • Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for warmth or a slight kick.

  • Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

  • With Coffee or Milk: Perfect for an afternoon treat or late-night bite.

  • Holiday Platter: These add decadence to any cookie tray.

  • Gift-Worthy: Pack in a box with parchment and a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

  • Dessert Sandwiches: Layer with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for next-level indulgence.

🧊 Make-Ahead + Storage Tips

  • Store: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

  • Reheat: Microwave for 5–8 seconds for that fresh-baked warmth.

  • Freeze: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes.

  • Caramel Tip: Drizzle caramel just before serving for the best look and texture.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but be sure it’s well-stirred and not too oily. Cookies may be a bit more delicate.

What’s the best caramel to use?
Soft caramel candies (like Werther’s soft or Kraft caramels) melt beautifully. You can also use a jarred caramel sauce.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Great for bake sales or gatherings. Just use multiple baking sheets.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! It adds a nice bit of texture to the cookies.

🍪🥜 Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Caramel Drizzle Cookies are the ultimate treat for peanut butter lovers who crave something extra. With soft, chewy centers, golden edges, and a drizzle of molten caramel, these cookies strike the perfect balance between comforting and indulgent. Whether you're baking for family, a party, or just your own sweet tooth—these are bound to become a new favorite.