No Bake Salted Caramel Cookies

Save this recipe on:

These No Bake Salted Caramel Cookies are a dreamy combination of creamy caramel and chewy oats, sprinkled with flakes of sea salt for the ultimate sweet-salty bite. They’re quick, simple, and require zero oven time—perfect for last-minute dessert cravings or holiday treat trays.

The luscious caramel coats the oats perfectly, forming bite-sized cookies that set up beautifully with just a bit of chill time. Whether you’re prepping for a party, packing a lunchbox treat, or just in the mood for something indulgent, these cookies hit the mark every time.

---

Why You’ll Love This No Bake Salted Caramel Cookies

If you love the irresistible mix of sweet and salty, you’re going to be obsessed with these. They come together in just 15 minutes with pantry staples, and there’s no need to heat your kitchen with the oven. They’re also highly customizable—add a drizzle of chocolate, chopped pecans, or a hint of cinnamon to switch things up.

Another reason to love them? They’re freezer-friendly. Make a batch ahead and you’ll always have a rich, chewy treat ready to go.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you get started, here are the essentials you’ll need to make these No Bake Salted Caramel Cookies smooth and easy:

• Heavy-bottom saucepan: Crucial for evenly melting the caramel without burning.
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula: Helps stir the mixture smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient portions.
• Mixing bowl: To stir the caramel mixture with oats thoroughly.
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon: Ensures evenly sized cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Each of these tools streamlines the prep process so your cookies come out looking and tasting delicious with minimal effort.

---

Ingredients for the No Bake Salted Caramel Cookies

• Old-fashioned rolled oats: These give the cookies their chewy texture and structure.
• Soft caramels: The base of the recipe, melted into a creamy sauce.
• Heavy cream: Helps to smooth and loosen the caramel for easier mixing.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps bind everything together.
• Sea salt flakes: Sprinkled on top for that perfect salty contrast to the sweet caramel.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm depth.

---

How To Make the No Bake Salted Caramel Cookies

Step 1: Melt the Caramel Base

In a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat, combine the soft caramels, heavy cream, and butter. Stir continuously until everything is melted and smooth, taking care not to let it boil or burn.

Step 2: Mix in the Oats

Once the caramel is silky and combined, remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract followed by the rolled oats. Mix well until the oats are fully coated in caramel.

Step 3: Form the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop mounds of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Press them gently into cookie shapes if needed.

Step 4: Add Finishing Salt

While the cookies are still warm and sticky, sprinkle each with sea salt flakes. This adds a burst of flavor and a beautiful finish.

Step 5: Let Them Set

Allow the cookies to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes or pop them into the fridge for 10–15 minutes to speed things up.

---

How to Serve and Store No Bake Salted Caramel Cookies

Serve these golden beauties at room temperature, where their chewy texture and creamy caramel shine best. They’re perfect for dessert platters, after-school snacks, or casual coffee dates.

To store, place them in an airtight container with parchment between layers. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 4 days, in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 2 months.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Quick oats can be used in a pinch, but the cookies will be softer and less chewy. Rolled oats hold their texture better.

What can I substitute for soft caramels?

If you don’t have soft caramels, you can use caramel sauce, though the texture may be a bit looser. Alternatively, homemade caramel can work beautifully.

Do these need to be refrigerated to set?

Nope! They will set at room temperature in about 30 minutes. But refrigerating them will help them firm up faster.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegan butter in place of regular butter. Make sure your caramels are dairy-free too.

Why are my cookies too sticky?

They may need more setting time, or you might not have cooked the caramel mixture long enough. Let them chill in the fridge to firm up more.

Can I add toppings?

Absolutely. Mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of dark chocolate would be delicious.

---

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved these No Bake Salted Caramel Cookies, here are more fun and flavorful cookie recipes to try:

• Simple Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies – tangy meets creamy in each bite.
• Quick and Easy Fudgy Chocolate Brownie Cookies – a chocolate lover’s dream.
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups – perfect for that sweet-nutty combo.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake – messy, fruity, and fabulous.
• Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake – a bold and fruity twist.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen by Kate on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you top yours with a drizzle of chocolate or maybe chopped pecans?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: