Caramel Cheesecake Cookie Bites (Print-Friendly Version)

Luscious cookies with caramel chips and cream cheese, finished with graham cracker crumbs and a sea salt touch.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Wet Ingredients

04 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
06 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
07 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
08 - 1 large egg
09 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

→ Mix-Ins

10 - 1 cup caramel chips or soft caramel bits
11 - sea salt, for optional sprinkling

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together graham cracker crumbs, all-purpose flour, and salt until evenly blended.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter, packed light brown sugar, and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, approximately 2 minutes.
04 - Add softened cream cheese and continue beating until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
05 - Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, blending until fully combined.
06 - Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing at low speed until just blended.
07 - Gently fold in caramel chips or soft caramel bits until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
08 - Scoop the dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing each cookie at least 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
09 - Optional: While cookies are still warm, lightly sprinkle with sea salt for enhanced flavor.
10 - Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - For best results, ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before creaming to achieve a smooth dough.