Caramel Nougat Cookies: A Rich Delight
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Description: These cookies are incredibly rich and undeniably delicious, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. While they may require a bit of time and effort, the result is absolutely worth it, ensuring they’ll be a hit with friends and family. This delightful recipe originally hails from VeryBestBaking and is destined to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Recipe Category: Bar Cookie
Keywords: Dessert, Cookie & Brownie, For Large Groups, Less than 4 Hours
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 1/4 cups | All-purpose flour |
| 1 teaspoon | Baking soda |
| 1 teaspoon | Salt |
| 1 1/4 cups | Butter, softened |
| 3/4 cup | Brown sugar |
| 1 1/4 cups | Granulated sugar |
| 1 package (3.4 oz) | Instant vanilla pudding mix |
| 2 | Eggs |
| 2 teaspoons | Vanilla extract |
| 1 can (12 oz) | Evaporated milk |
| 1 1/4 cups | Marshmallow creme |
| 1/2 cup | Creamy peanut butter |
| 14 oz | Salted peanuts, chopped |
| 1 1/2 cups | Chocolate chips |
| 1/3 cup | Butterscotch chips |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 74.2 |
| Total Fat | 3.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 6.5 mg |
| Sodium | 65.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 9.3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.3 g |
| Sugars | 6.9 g |
| Protein | 1.1 g |
Servings: Approximately 180 pieces
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 17x11x1-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring that the edges are well covered for easy removal later.
2. Create the Cookie Layer
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened butter, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Beat these ingredients together until they reach a creamy and fluffy consistency. Next, add the package of instant vanilla pudding mix, followed by the two eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the creamy sugar mixture, blending until just combined. Carefully fold in 1 1/3 cups of butterscotch chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
4. Bake the Cookie Base
Spread the cookie mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 11 minutes, or until the top is light golden brown. To achieve a chewier texture, hold the pan 2 to 3 inches above your counter and let it drop gently before placing it on a cooling rack. Allow the cookie base to cool completely.
5. Prepare the Nougat Layer
While the cookie layer is cooling, begin the nougat layer. In a medium heavy saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and the can of evaporated milk. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a rolling boil. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, maintaining constant stirring to prevent burning. Once done, remove from heat and immediately stir in 1/4 cup of peanut butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the marshmallow creme. Finally, fold in 14 ounces of chopped salted peanuts.
6. Assemble the Nougat Layer
Spread the nougat mixture evenly over the cooled cookie layer in the baking pan. Refrigerate this assembly for 15 minutes to set.
7. Create the Caramel Layer
In another medium heavy saucepan, combine 14 ounces of caramels and 1/4 cup of cream over low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is well blended and smooth. Allow it to cool slightly until it’s just warm to the touch, then spread it over the nougat layer. Return the pan to the refrigerator for another 15 minutes to firm up.
8. Finish with the Chocolate Layer
For the final chocolate layer, melt 1 1/2 cups of chocolate chips, 1/3 cup of butterscotch chips, and 1/4 cup of peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Start by heating the mixture on medium power for 1 minute, then stir and heat for an additional 30 seconds if necessary. Continue stirring until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy.
9. Top and Set
Spread the melted chocolate mixture over the caramel layer, ensuring an even distribution. Allow the chocolate to set and harden completely before cutting into 1-inch squares.
10. Storage
To maintain freshness, store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy these decadent Caramel Nougat Cookies as a delightful treat for gatherings or as a special indulgence at home.
Final Thoughts
These Caramel Nougat Cookies are a testament to the wonderful world of dessert-making, bringing together layers of flavor and texture that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re sharing them at a party or enjoying them with a cup of coffee, they are bound to impress with their rich taste and delightful crunch. Happy baking!
