Caramel Stuffed Salted Chocolate (Print Format)

Soft chocolate cookies filled with caramel, finished with a touch of sea salt for an irresistible snack.

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 1/4 cups butter
02 - 2 cups sugar
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 3/4 cup cocoa powder
06 - 2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
07 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
09 - 18 caramel candies, approximately
10 - Flaked sea salt (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Cream together the butter and sugar until well mixed.
02 - Incorporate the eggs and vanilla into the creamed mixture and beat until well combined.
03 - Sift together the cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
04 - Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until a dough forms.
05 - Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours or overnight until firm.
06 - Roll the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls. Push one caramel candy into the center of each ball, pinching the dough to seal it around the candy.
07 - Place the dough balls about 3 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
08 - Flatten the dough balls slightly and sprinkle with a pinch of flaked sea salt, if desired.
09 - Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-14 minutes.
10 - Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for several minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
11 - Store cookies in an airtight container. For a softer caramel center, warm the cookies in the microwave for a few seconds.

# Tips:

01 - Chilling the dough ensures better texture and prevents excess spreading during baking.
02 - Using flaked sea salt enhances the contrast of flavors in the cookies.