Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of caramel desserts with our collection of 20 decadent treats. From classic cheesecakes and pies to innovative cupcakes and cookies, we’ve got you covered with a range of mouthwatering recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dessert to impress friends and family or a indulgent treat to enjoy all by yourself (no judgment here!), our caramel dessert recipes have something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of caramel desserts, featuring everything from classic Salted Caramel Cheesecake to creative twists like Caramel Popcorn Balls and Caramel Stuffed Cookies. Get ready to drool over these irresistible treats and start planning your next dessert adventure!
Salted Caramel Cheesecake
A rich and creamy cheesecake with a salty caramel twist, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs, separated
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and granulated sugar.
5. Pour batter over crust and bake for 55-60 minutes or until set.
6. Remove from oven and drizzle with salted caramel sauce. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
7. Garnish with whipped cream and sea salt before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including cooling time)
Caramel Apple Pie
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic combination of tender apples and gooey caramel in a flaky pie crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon caramel sauce (or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, and corn syrup. Mix until coated.
3. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place apples in the center of the crust, leaving a 1-inch border.
4. Drizzle melted butter over the apples, then sprinkle with vanilla extract.
5. Roll remaining pie crust into strips for lattice-top design or use a pie shield. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
7. Remove from oven and drizzle with caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramel Chocolate Brownies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these rich and fudgy brownies, infused with the perfect balance of caramel and dark chocolate flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter (12 tablespoons), plus more for greasing
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Chopped nuts or sea salt for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter and line with parchment paper.
2. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine melted chocolate, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
5. Add flour mixture to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and drizzle with caramel sauce.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Let cool completely before slicing and serving.
Caramel Pecan Tart
A rich and buttery tart filled with a gooey caramel pecan filling, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup pecan halves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes or until caramel turns golden brown.
5. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
6. Spread caramel mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Sprinkle pecan halves over the caramel layer.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown and pecans are toasted.
9. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramel Flan
A classic French dessert, Caramel Flan is a rich and creamy custard base topped with a velvety caramel sauce. This simple recipe yields a smooth, silky flan with a deep caramel crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually pour warm cream mixture into egg yolks, whisking constantly.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramel Bread Pudding
Sweet and indulgent, caramel bread pudding is a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This rich and gooey treat is made with stale bread, caramel sauce, and a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Toss until bread is evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and egg until smooth. Pour mixture over bread mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Pour caramel sauce over the pudding mixture and gently fold until it’s fully incorporated.
5. Pour pudding into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramel Drizzle Cupcakes
Elevate your cupcake game with these moist and flavorful treats topped with a rich caramel drizzle. Perfect for special occasions or just because!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Caramel Popcorn Balls
Transform your favorite movie snack into a deliciously sweet treat with these caramel popcorn balls. Crunchy, chewy, and utterly addictive, they’re perfect for game day gatherings or just because.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 6 cups popped popcorn, fresh and dry
– Optional: chopped nuts or sprinkles for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine corn syrup, water, butter, baking soda, and sea salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until caramel reaches desired color.
4. Remove from heat and stir in caramel sauce until smooth.
5. Add popped popcorn and mix until well coated with caramel mixture.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until caramel is set.
8. Allow to cool completely before storing.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramel Lava Cake
Sink your teeth into these decadent treats, filled with a gooey caramel center that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter (12 tablespoons), at room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 and 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine butter and sugar. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
6. Pour batter into 4 (6-ounce) ramekins or small cups.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set but centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool in ramekins for 1 minute.
9. Serve warm, drizzled with caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Caramel Banana Foster
Elevate your dessert game with this classic Caramel Banana Foster recipe, a sweet and indulgent treat that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in. Rich caramel sauce, tender bananas, and crispy buttery brioche come together in a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 4 slices of brioche bread
– Whipped cream and chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sugar, heavy cream, and sea salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add sliced bananas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until caramelized.
4. Place brioche slices in the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
5. Assemble by placing a banana slice on top of each bread slice, then drizzle with remaining caramel sauce.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramel Pumpkin Spice Cake
This moist and aromatic cake is perfect for the fall season, infused with the warmth of pumpkin spice and the richness of caramel. A delightful combination that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add melted butter and caramel sauce to the wet ingredients. Mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramel Coconut Macaroons
These chewy macaroons are infused with the rich flavor of caramel and the creamy texture of coconut, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a batch in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg white
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sugar, and salt.
3. Add caramel sauce, butter, egg white, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Caramel Pretzel Bars
These gooey bars combine the perfect balance of sweet caramel and salty pretzels, making them a unique dessert to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups light brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups pretzel rods, crushed
– 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (such as dulce de leche or caramel ice cream topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter and brown sugar until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Add crushed pretzels and chopped pecans (if using) to the wet ingredients; stir until combined.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the bars.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until caramel is bubbly and edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramel Creme Brulee
A rich and creamy brulee topped with a layer of caramelized sugar, this dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, cream, sugar, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and melted butter.
5. Pour into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar on top of each brulee.
9. Caramelize the sugar by using a kitchen torch to carefully burn the sugar in a circular motion, or place under broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Caramel Rice Krispie Treats
Sweeten up your snack game with these Caramel Rice Krispie Treats! A classic favorite gets a gooey twist with the addition of melted caramel and crunchy rice cereal.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 12 tablespoons light corn syrup
– 12 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup melted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter, corn syrup, and sugar over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Add the Rice Krispies cereal and stir until well coated.
4. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle the melted caramel sauce evenly over the top of the treats.
6. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: None required, just chill and serve!
Caramel Stuffed Cookies
Sweet and chewy cookies filled with a gooey caramel center – a perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup caramel bits (such as Kraft or Ghirardelli)
– Optional: sea salt for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in caramel bits.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramel Mousse Parfait
Elevate your dessert game with this indulgent caramel mousse parfait, featuring a velvety caramel mousse, crunchy cookies, and sweet whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup whipped cream
– 1 cup crushed cookies (e.g., chocolate sandwich cookies)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream and softened butter until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together granulated sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract.
3. Slowly pour the caramel sauce into the sugar mixture, whisking constantly until well combined.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the caramel mixture until no white streaks remain.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or glasses.
6. Top each cup with crushed cookies and a dollop of whipped cream.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None needed – just chill!
Caramel Swirl Ice Cream
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this creamy and indulgent Caramel Swirl Ice Cream recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add in the vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once the ice cream has finished churning, transfer it to a freezer-safe container.
5. Swirl in the caramel sauce by spooning small amounts of the caramel over the top of the ice cream, then gently folding them in with a spatula.
6. Cover and freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cook Time: None (ice cream maker required)
Caramel Chocolate Chip Blondies
Caramel Chocolate Chip Blondies: A Sweet Treat with a Gooey Twist!
These chewy blondies are packed with gooey caramel and dark chocolate chips, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With a short list of ingredients and simple instructions, you’ll be enjoying these scrumptious treats in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and vanilla extract. Add caramel sauce and mix well.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir in chocolate chips.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
- Let cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramel Glazed Donuts
Elevate your donut game with these sweet and sticky caramel glazed treats. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying the perfect morning or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Caramel glaze (see below)
Caramel Glaze:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add milk, egg, and salt; mix until smooth.
4. Fry donuts for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
6. Whisk together glaze ingredients in a small saucepan.
7. Dip warm donuts in glaze and let cool.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on frying time)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of decadent desserts with these 20 irresistible caramel treats! From classic cheesecakes and pies to creative twists like caramel popcorn balls and stuffed cookies, this collection has something for every sweet tooth. Discover how to make salted caramel cheesecake, caramel apple pie, and other mouthwatering desserts that combine the richness of caramel with the comfort of familiar flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for inspiration, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
