Name: Gochujang Caramel Cookies: A Sweet and Spicy Adventure
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 43 min
Ingredients: 8 tbsp Unsalted Butter (softened; provides richness and a soft texture); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (contributes sweetness and crispiness); 2 tbsp Light Brown Sugar (adds sweetness and moisture); 1 large Egg (room temperature; acts as a binder); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (adds aromatic sweetness); 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (provides structure); 1/2 tsp Baking Soda (a leavening agent); 1/4 tsp Ground Cinnamon (adds warmth that complements the gochujang); 3/4 tsp Kosher Salt (enhances flavor and balances sweetness); 1 heaping tbsp Korean Chili Paste (Gochujang) (provides subtle heat and depth)

The moment I took my first bite of Gochujang Caramel Cookies, a delicious clash of sweet and spicy flavors danced on my palate, leaving me craving more. This innovative twist on a classic cookie is exclusive enough to amaze friends at a gathering while being simple enough for a cozy night in. Inspired by a New York Times recipe, these cookies boast an irresistible chewy middle surrounded by a crispy edge, making them a delightful addition to any dessert table. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with spice levels and mix-ins. Ready to bake a treat that’s bound to become a favorite? Let’s dive into this enchanting world of Korean fusion!

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Uniqueness: Gochujang Caramel Cookies combine sweet and spicy in a way that tantalizes your taste buds, standing out from ordinary dessert offerings.
Ease: This recipe is designed for all skill levels, making it a breeze for anyone who enjoys homemade treats without complicated techniques.
Versatility: Feel free to experiment! Swap in ingredients like chocolate chips or zesty citrus to customize and elevate your cookie experience.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing, these cookies are sure to impress guests at gatherings or cookie exchanges—just like my delightful Easter Sprinkle Cookies.
Texture: Enjoy the contrast of a crispy exterior with a chewy center, a delightful bite that makes every occasion feel special.

Gochujang Caramel Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter – 8 tbsp / 113 g, softened; provides richness and a soft texture, creating a tender crumb. Substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – 1 cup / 200 g; contributes sweetness and crispiness to the cookies’ texture.
• Light Brown Sugar – 2 tbsp; adds sweetness and moisture, enhancing flavor. Dark brown sugar can be substituted for a deeper molasses flavor.
• Large Egg – 1, room temperature; acts as a binder and contributes to a chewy texture.
• Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp; adds aromatic sweetness that balances flavors.
• All-Purpose Flour – 1.5 cups / 180 g; the base ingredient providing structure. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Baking Soda – 1/2 tsp; a leavening agent aiding in rising.
• Ground Cinnamon – 1/4 tsp; adds warmth that complements the gochujang’s spiciness.
• Kosher Salt – 3/4 tsp; enhances flavor and balances sweetness.

For the Gochujang Caramel
• Korean Chili Paste (Gochujang) – 1 heaping tbsp; the star ingredient that provides a subtle heat and depth. Ensure to use a high-quality gochujang for best results.

These Gochujang Caramel Cookie ingredients blend together to create a sweet and spicy treat perfect for impressing family and friends!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gochujang Caramel Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Gochujang Caramel Paste
In a medium bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of softened unsalted butter with 2 tablespoons of light brown sugar and 1 heaping tablespoon of gochujang. Using a spatula, mix until the ingredients are smooth and creamy, forming a paste. Set this aside, as it will add a unique spicy-sweet element to your Gochujang Caramel Cookies.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the remaining 7 tablespoons of softened butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of light brown sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This creates a delightful base for your cookie dough.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, allowing the dough to remain tender for your Gochujang Caramel Cookies.

Step 4: Chill the Dough
Once your cookie dough is ready, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes. This step ensures that the cookies hold their shape while baking and helps enhance the flavors. While the dough chills, you can preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 5: Incorporate Caramel
After chilling, gently incorporate the gochujang caramel paste into the cookie dough. Using a spatula, swirl the paste into the dough, creating a marbled effect. Be careful not to fully mix the caramel in, as you want visible streaks for an enticing look in your Gochujang Caramel Cookies.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Scoop about 3 tablespoons of dough for each cookie and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, ensuring to leave space between each cookie—about 6 cookies per sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 11-13 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown and the tops look slightly cracked. Remember to rotate the pans halfway through for even baking.

Step 7: Cool and Store
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 3 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. To store your Gochujang Caramel Cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring their delightful chewiness and flavor stay intact.

Expert Tips for Gochujang Caramel Cookies

Chill Time Matters: Make sure to chill your dough for at least 10-15 minutes to prevent spreading during baking. This is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in Gochujang Caramel Cookies.
Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality gochujang to ensure the best flavor profile. The type of gochujang can significantly influence the spiciness and depth of your cookies.
Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the gochujang amount based on your heat preference. Start with less if you’re unsure, as you can always add more to future batches.
Swirling Technique: When incorporating the gochujang caramel, swirl it gently through the dough for a visually appealing marbled effect. Avoid over-mixing, which could blend the flavors too much.
Baking in Batches: Bake cookies in batches to guarantee even cooking. Rotate your baking sheets halfway through the baking time to ensure even heat distribution.
Storage Tips: For fresher cookies, store them in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the dough for later baking—just bake from frozen, allowing extra time in the oven.

Make Ahead Options

These Gochujang Caramel Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and refrigerating it in an airtight container. Additionally, the gochujang caramel paste can be made early and stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days; just give it a stir before adding it to the dough. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto baking sheets and bake as directed; they’ll come out just as delicious as if made fresh. This easy meal prep option means you can enjoy these spicy-sweet treats even on your busiest days!

Storage Tips for Gochujang Caramel Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewiness and delicious flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookie dough in pre-portioned balls. When ready to bake, place the frozen dough directly on a baking sheet, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: If enjoying leftover cookies, heat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their soft texture before serving.

Tips: If you plan to freeze, consider wrapping individual cookies tightly in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe container to preserve the quality of your Gochujang Caramel Cookies.

Gochujang Caramel Cookies Variations

Feel free to play around and tailor these Gochujang Caramel Cookies to your liking, making each batch uniquely yours!

Spicy Swap: Swap gochujang for Fly By Jing Sichuan Chili Crisp for a different kind of spice and a crunchier texture.
Chocolate Indulgence: Mix in white chocolate chips to complement the spiciness with creamy sweetness—truly addictive!
Nutty Touch: Fold in toasted sesame seeds to enhance the flavors and add a delightful nutty crunch in every bite.
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a refreshing twist that brightens up the spicy-sweet notes.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to keep everyone included in this delicious dessert.
Add a Spice Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra heat punch that will thrill the spice lovers among us.
Vanilla Variation: Swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract to introduce a complex layer of flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the gochujang.
Savory Surprise: Incorporate a touch of flaky sea salt on top before baking to balance the sweetness with savory notes, elevating each cookie even further.

These delightful variations will keep your baking exciting and your taste buds dancing! And if you’re in the mood for something festive, consider whipping up my delicious Easter Sprinkle Cookies for another irresistible treat!

What to Serve with Gochujang Caramel Cookies

The delightful combination of sweet and spicy in these cookies invites a variety of delicious pairings to create a well-rounded dessert experience.

Bold Espresso: The rich, robust flavors of espresso perfectly balance the sweet and spicy notes in the cookies, making each bite a heavenly experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the chewy and crispy textures in the cookies, calming the spice while enhancing sweetness.
Green Tea: The earthy, grassy notes of green tea complement the cookies’ flavors, providing a refreshing palate cleanser between bites and elevating your dessert experience.
Coconut Macaroons: These soft and sweet treats add a delightful chewy texture and tropical flair, creating a harmonious mix of flavors to enjoy alongside the cookies.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant bowl of fresh fruit adds brightness and a refreshing bite, balancing the cookies’ sweetness with a mix of juicy flavors. Imagine a medley of berries and citrus joining forces for a perfect summer dessert!
Hot Chocolate: A comforting cup of rich hot chocolate enhances the cozy nature of these cookies, inviting warmth and sweetness that pairs perfectly as you savor each delightful bite.

These pairings will not only enhance your Gochujang Caramel Cookies but also create a delightful dessert spread that everyone will love!

Gochujang Caramel Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting gochujang?
Absolutely! When choosing gochujang for your cookies, look for a high-quality brand that has a rich red color and a smooth texture. Ideally, it should be free from artificial additives and have a balanced flavor with both sweetness and spice. If the paste looks dry or has dark spots all over, it may not be fresh.

How should I store Gochujang Caramel Cookies?
For the best results, store your Gochujang Caramel Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and chewy for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Just wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Very! To freeze your Gochujang Caramel Cookies dough, scoop the dough into individual balls and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour. Once the dough is firm, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find that your cookies spread too much in the oven, don’t worry! First, try chilling the dough for a longer time—30 minutes can work wonders. Ensure your butter is softened but not melted; melted butter can lead to excess spreading. Lastly, check your oven temperature using an oven thermometer to confirm it’s accurate; sometimes, a hotter oven can expedite spreading.

Are Gochujang Caramel Cookies suitable for those with allergies?
That’s a great question! These cookies contain common allergens such as gluten (in the flour), eggs, and dairy (in the butter). For a dairy-free option, substitute unsalted butter with margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute. You can also use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten allergies. Be sure to double-check your other ingredients’ labels for any additional allergens.

Can I customize the spice level in Gochujang Caramel Cookies?
Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can start with a smaller amount of gochujang if you’re cautious about spice and gradually increase it in future batches to suit your taste. Alternatively, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper for added heat or balance it out with a bit of white chocolate for sweetness. Enjoy experimenting!