As I cleared the clutter from my kitchen counter, a delightful mess of flour and chocolate chips emerged, reminding me why I love baking. The moment I tasted the first batch of these Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. These indulgent desserts boast a buttery, chewy cookie base, decadent homemade caramel, and a silky chocolate topping, all crowned with the perfect sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Not only are they an easy way to satisfy my sweet tooth, but they also make for an impressive treat that will wow family and friends at any gathering. Ready to dive into a world of rich, sweet, and salty perfection? Let’s get started!
Why will you love these cookie cups?
Indulgence at Its Finest: Each bite of these Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups transports you to dessert heaven with their combination of rich caramel and smooth chocolate!
Simplicity Made Delicious: The easy-to-follow steps mean you don’t need to be a pastry chef to create these impressive treats.
Versatile Treats: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a dinner party, a sweet gift, or a midnight snack alongside your favorite coffee.
Eye-Catching Presentation: With their beautiful layers and a sprinkle of sea salt, they make a delightful centerpiece on any dessert table.
Make Ahead Convenience: These cookie cups store well, making it easy to whip them up days in advance. For more great ideas, don’t miss my expert tips for efficient baking.
Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
- Plain Flour – Forms the dough structure; for a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Bicarbonate of Soda – Helps to keep cookies chewy and soft.
- Cornflour – Works hand-in-hand with bicarbonate for the perfect texture.
- Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors; a key ingredient for richness.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds creaminess; you can substitute with salted butter, but reduce added salt.
- Light Brown Soft Sugar – Contributes to chewiness and depth of flavor.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookie and helps in achieving the right texture.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan treat.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic notes; highly recommended for enhanced flavor.
- Milk Chocolate Chips – Provide delightful bursts of chocolate; you can switch to dark or semi-sweet chocolate if preferred.
For the Caramel Filling
- Granulated Sugar – Essential for making rich caramel; no substitutions for optimal results.
- Double Cream – Adds creaminess to the caramel; be sure to whisk in slowly for the best texture.
- Water – Works with sugar to create the perfect caramel consistency; a must-have ingredient.
- Yorkshire Sea Salt – Elevates the flavor with a slight crunch; can use kosher or flaky sea salt as a substitute.
For the Chocolate Topping
- Milk Chocolate – Melted over the caramel for that glossy finish; feel free to swap with dark or white chocolate as desired.
Indulging in these Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups is a treat you won’t forget!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven reaches the perfect temperature, take a moment to lightly grease or line a muffin tin with paper liners. This will prevent the cookie cups from sticking and ensure an easy release once baked.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, cornflour, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together unsalted butter, light brown soft sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in an egg and vanilla extract, then gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Finally, stir in the milk chocolate chips, coating them evenly throughout the dough.
Step 3: Shape the Cookie Cups
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, scoop the prepared dough into the muffin tin, gently pressing each scoop down to form a cup shape. Ensure not to overfill; about two-thirds full is ideal to allow space for the cookies to spread while baking. This will create the perfect vessel for the rich caramel later on.
Step 4: Bake
Place the muffin tin inside the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. The sea salted millionaire’s cookie cups should look golden around the edges but soft in the middle when done. Once baked, allow the cookie cups to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Caramel
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, double cream, butter, and water. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns a lovely golden color. Once golden, whisk in the cream slowly and carefully until the mixture is smooth, then remove from heat and stir in Yorkshire sea salt, setting the caramel aside to cool slightly.
Step 6: Top with Chocolate
While the caramel cools, melt your milk chocolate in a microwave or double boiler, stirring until silky smooth. Once the cookie cups are cool and the caramel has slightly set, spoon the melted chocolate generously over the caramel layer, creating a glossy finish that will invite you to take a bite.
Step 7: Sprinkle Sea Salt
While the chocolate is still soft, grab a pinch of flaky sea salt and sprinkle it over the tops of the cookie cups. This finishing touch adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness and elevates each bite of your sea salted millionaire’s cookie cups.
Step 8: Cool and Set
Allow the cookie cups to cool at room temperature or place them in the fridge to expedite the setting process. Aim for at least 30 minutes to ensure the chocolate and caramel firm up nicely, resulting in a perfect texture that’s ready for devouring.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Your indulgent sea salted millionaire’s cookie cups are ready to be savored! Serve these delightful treats on a platter and watch them disappear quickly as friends and family enjoy the luxurious combination of chewy cookie, rich caramel, and velvety chocolate.
How to Store and Freeze Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups
Airtight Container: Store your cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and prevent them from drying out.
Refrigeration: If you need them to last longer, refrigerate the cookie cups for up to a week. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap each cookie cup tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To refresh, you can warm the cookie cups in the microwave for 10-15 seconds; this will soften them slightly and restore their gooey center.
Expert Tips for Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups
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Dough Consistency: Ensure you don’t overfill the muffin tins with dough to prevent collapsing while baking. Aim for about two-thirds full.
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Smooth Caramel: When making the caramel, whisk in the cream slowly to avoid splattering. This guarantees a silky, lump-free texture for your filling.
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Chocolate Melting: Use a double boiler or microwave at reduced power to melt chocolate gently. This prevents burning and achieves a smooth, glossy finish.
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Cooling Tips: Allow the cookie cups to cool slightly in the tin before moving to a wire rack. This helps them retain their shape and makes transferring easier.
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Finishing Touch: For a delightful crunch, consider using flaky sea salt right after topping with chocolate; it enhances flavor and presentation of the sea salted millionaire’s cookie cups.
What to Serve with Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups
Elevate your baking experience by pairing these indulgent cookie cups with complementary flavors and textures that enhance each delightful bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and smooth, it perfectly balances the richness of the cookie cups, making every mouthful a dreamy combination.
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Fresh Berries: A burst of tartness from raspberries or strawberries provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet and salty notes of the cookie cups. These juicy fruits can brighten the dessert plate and add vibrant color!
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Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavor of a robust brew cuts through the sweetness, creating an exquisite harmony. Consider serving a frothy cappuccino alongside for a cozy afternoon treat.
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Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Strawberries or bananas dipped in chocolate echo the flavors of the cookie cups while adding a touch of elegance. This pairing offers a flavorful surprise with every bite.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream can enhance the richness while adding a soft texture, creating a lovely airy counterpoint to the chewy cookie base.
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Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling extra caramel over each cookie cup adds an indulgent touch, amplifying the salty-sweet experience. This also allows the guests to customize their treats as they desire.
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Chai Tea: A warm, spiced chai can complement the cookie cups perfectly, with its aromatic spices bringing a comforting sense of warmth and nostalgia.
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Nutty Brittle: A crunchy nutty topping like toffee or peanut brittle serves as a fun, textured side that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie and gooey caramel.
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Sparkling Water with Citrus: A refreshing fizzy drink can cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the enjoyment of these decadent cookie cups. The twist of citrus adds a delightful zing!
These delightful pairings will turn your Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups into a striking dessert experience that’s hard to resist!
Make Ahead Options
These Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups are a dream come true for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly and refrigerate before using. The caramel can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled cookie dough into the muffin tin and follow the baking instructions, then add the caramel and chocolate topping just before serving to ensure the best texture. This way, you’ll create fresh, indulgent treats with minimal effort!
Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups Variations
Explore the delightful possibilities of customizing your cookie cups to suit your taste!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute plain flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free treat.
- Vegan-friendly: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use coconut or dairy-free butter for a vegan version.
- Chocolate Swap: Use dark or white chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a different flavor profile. Each variation brings its own unique twist to the recipe.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the cookie dough for added texture and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper into the cookie dough for a warm, spicy twist.
- Caramel Boost: Drizzle extra caramel on top of the chocolate layer for those caramel lovers in your life. It adds an irresistible gooey richness!
- Salted Caramel: Use a heavier sprinkle of sea salt on top after adding the chocolate for that extra salty-sweet contrast.
- Almond Extract: Replace the vanilla with almond extract for a nutty, fragrant touch. It elevates the cookie experience to something extraordinary!
Feel free to explore these variations, and don’t hesitate to check out my tips for baking if you need more inspiration!
Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups Recipe FAQs
What type of flour is best for Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups?
Plain flour is ideal as it provides the perfect base for the cookie structure. If you need a gluten-free option, I recommend using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, which works beautifully without compromising texture.
How should I store the cookie cups after baking?
Store your cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them chewy and delicious. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, just remember to separate layers with parchment paper!
Can I freeze Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each cookie cup tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature, and they’ll be just as delightful!
What should I do if my caramel turns hard or grainy?
If your caramel becomes hard or grainy, it may have been overcooked. To remedy this, add a splash of water or cream and gently reheat it over low heat, whisking continuously until smooth again. This step ensures a creamy filling for your cookie cups!
Are these cookie cups suitable for those with nut allergies?
Yes, the Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups do not contain nuts in the base ingredients. However, always check the labels of any chocolate or other components you use to ensure they’re produced in a nut-free facility, keeping everyone’s safety in mind.
Can I modify the recipe to make these cookie cups vegan?
Certainly! To make these cookie cups vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes until gel-like) and use non-dairy butter and chocolate. This way, you can still enjoy this indulgent dessert!
Irresistible Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups You’ll Adore
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease or line a muffin tin.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, cornflour, and salt. In another bowl, cream butter with both sugars until fluffy, then beat in egg and vanilla. Fold in dry ingredients and stir in chocolate chips.
- Scoop dough into the muffin tin, pressing down gently to form cup shapes.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden around edges. Cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, double cream, butter, and water. Stir continuously until the mixture is golden. Whisk in salt and cool slightly.
- Melt milk chocolate and pour it over the cooled caramel in the cookie cups.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the chocolate while it's still soft.
- Cool at room temperature or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy your Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups.
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