Gochujang Caramel Cookies
Gochujang caramel cookies are a delightful treat that combines the smoky heat of gochujang with the sweet richness of caramel. The result is a chewy, slightly spicy, and deeply flavorful cookie that is sure to be a conversation starter.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: 8 tbsp (113 g), softened, divided
- Light brown sugar: 2 tbsp
- Korean chili paste (gochujang): 1 heaping tbsp (20g)
- Sugar: 1 cup (200 g)
- Egg: 1 large, room temperature
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cup (180 g)
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1/4 tsp
- Kosher salt: 3/4 tsp
Instructions
Make the Gochujang Caramel
- In a small skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add the brown sugar and gochujang.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thick and bubbling, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Make the Cookie Dough
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter with the sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla and beat until combined.
- Add the cooled gochujang caramel and mix until incorporated.
- Add the flour mixture and mix on low speed until just combined.
- Cover the bowl and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
Bake the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, until the edges are golden and the centers are still soft.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.