The moment I pulled those golden-brown cookies from the oven, their sweet scent enveloped the kitchen, whispering promises of indulgence. Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies are truly a revelation—a fantastic way to satisfy your cravings without spending hours in the kitchen. These quick and easy desserts beautifully combine a light, flaky pie crust with gooey chocolate and a decadent caramel drizzle, making them the perfect bite-sized treats for any occasion. Not only do they impress with their charming looks, but they also cater to different tastes with optional fillings and toppings. And if you’re looking for a way to elevate your dessert game, these cookies will surely have your family and friends wondering how you pulled off such deliciousness in no time. Are you ready to dive into baking these delightful pillows of joy?
Why You’ll Crave These Cookies?
Simplicity at Its Finest: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, these cookies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for beginner bakers.
Decadent Flavor Explosion: The combination of rich chocolate, sweet caramel, and a hint of sea salt creates an unforgettable taste experience that will leave everyone begging for more.
Versatile Treats: Change up the flavors with various Hershey Kisses or toppings—you can customize these cookies for any mood or occasion!
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for cookie exchanges, holiday gatherings, or just satisfying your sweet tooth after dinner.
Quick Cooking Time: Bake these beauties in just 15-20 minutes, so you can enjoy warm cookies fresh out of the oven without any hassle.
These Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies are sure to impress, and if you’re craving even more sweet inspiration, be sure to check out my Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread or my deliciously unique Caramelized Onion Naan Pizza.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookie Ingredients
For the Dough
- Refrigerated Pie Crust – A quick and easy base with a light, flaky texture; feel free to use homemade for a fresher flavor.
For the Filling
- Hershey Kisses (14 pieces) – The star of the show, offering various flavors like milk chocolate or dark chocolate; try flavored Kisses for added fun.
For the Egg Wash
- Egg White (1, whisked with 1 Tbsp water) – Gives the cookies a beautiful golden color and helps the crust become crispy; no substitution needed.
For the Caramel Drizzle
- Mrs. Richardson’s Caramel Topping (1 small jar) – Adds a rich, gooey caramel flavor; you can substitute with homemade caramel for a personal touch.
For the Finishing Touch
- Mediterranean Sea Salt – Enhances the flavor with a sweet and salty balance; regular sea salt will work just as well.
Optional Toppings
- Chocolate Chips (1 cup, melted) – For an extra chocolatey flavor that takes indulgence to the next level.
- Finely Chopped Nuts (1/2 cup) – Adds a delightful crunch and depth to each bite.
- Powdered Sugar – A lovely dusting for aesthetic appeal and a hint of sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar – Sprinkle before baking for an extra touch of sweetness in the crust.
Whether you’re whipping up these Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, you’ll find them both welcoming and indulgent. Enjoy!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with non-stick spray. This step ensures that your Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, leading to a delightful, flaky texture.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Take your thawed pie crust and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it reaches a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Using a round cutter, cut out 2.5-inch circles from the dough. As you work, be sure to re-roll any scraps to maximize your dough, ensuring you have enough circles for all your tasty chocolate pillows.
Step 3: Add the Filling
Place one Hershey Kiss in the center of each dough circle, allowing the rich chocolate to be the star of your Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies. Carefully fold the dough over the chocolate, forming a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal in all the delicious flavors, creating a delightful little pocket of sweetness.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white with 1 tablespoon of water until well combined. Using a pastry brush, gently brush the egg wash over each cookie. This step not only enhances the golden color of the crust but also helps toppings adhere, making your cookies as beautiful as they are delicious.
Step 5: Sprinkle and Bake
Sprinkle a pinch of granulated sugar or Mediterranean sea salt over each cookie for added sweetness and flavor. Transfer the prepared cookies to your baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown, signaling that the crust is perfectly flaky and cooked through.
Step 6: Cool and Drizzle
Once baked, allow the Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. After cooling, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle the caramel topping over the warm cookies while they’re still a bit soft, and finish with a sprinkle of sea salt for that delightful sweet and salty balance before serving.
What to Serve with Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies
These delightful cookies open a world of pairing possibilities; create a full, satisfying meal or a cozy dessert spread with ease.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream perfectly offsets the rich chocolate and caramel, providing a refreshing contrast.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a tartness that balances the cookies’ sweetness, giving a refreshing pop of flavor!
- Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the flavors in your cookies, playing beautifully with the chocolate and caramel notes.
- Chocolate Fondue: For an indulgent twist, serve alongside a pot of chocolate fondue for dipping, allowing guests to personalize each bite.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Enhance the experience by serving extra caramel sauce on the side for those who crave even more sweetness.
- Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola introduces a delightful crunch and makes for a perfect pairing with a side of yogurt!
- Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea complement the flavors of the cookies, creating a cozy and inviting experience.
- Chocolate Milk: For a whimsical touch, offer chilled chocolate milk, which pairs wonderfully with the rich sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses, like creamy brie or sharp cheddar, balances the sweetness and brings an unexpected gourmet touch to your spread.
- Mini Fruit Tarts: Accompany the cookies with mini fruit tarts to add a splash of color and freshness, creating a visually stunning dessert table.
Storage Tips for Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while preserving the delightful flaky texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, these cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Reheating: If you desire that warm, gooey feeling again, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to refresh them before serving.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your creativity into these delightful cookies for a personalized touch that’s sure to please.
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Nutty Twist: Add finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the chocolate filling for a delightful crunch that enhances each bite. The combination of flavors is simply divine!
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Seasonal Spice: Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, aromatic touch. These spices bring a cozy twist, perfect for fall or winter gatherings.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute regular Hershey Kisses with dairy-free chocolate options for a vegan-friendly version. This allows everyone to indulge without missing out!
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Fruity Burst: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or cherries with the chocolate filling while baking. The fruity contrast adds an exciting pop of flavor to each pillow.
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Pumpkin Spice: Fold in a teaspoon of pumpkin spice seasoning into the caramel drizzle for an autumn twist. The seasonal flavor will delight your taste buds!
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Extra Sweetness: Drizzle more caramel sauce on top after baking for a guiltier indulgence. Let’s make it extra gooey and delicious!
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Chocolate Lovers Dream: Try using dark chocolate Hershey Kisses instead for a richer flavor profile. This will surely satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
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Chewy Cookie Variation: For a chewier texture, replace the pie crust with cookie dough from your favorite recipe. Each bite will be a delightful blend of flavors and textures!
Don’t forget to explore even more indulgent recipes like my Crispy Chocolate Oat Cookies or the decadent White Chocolate Orange Mousse for more delightful treats!
Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillows
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Proper Thawing: Ensure your pie crust is fully thawed before rolling; cold dough can crack, affecting your cookies’ flaky texture.
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Flavor Variations: Experiment with flavored Hershey Kisses, like mint or caramel, to enhance your Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillows with new taste sensations.
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Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies while baking. Start checking around 15 minutes to prevent over-baking and maintain that gooey center.
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Seal Well: Press the edges of the dough firmly when folding to avoid leaks during baking. This keeps the delicious chocolate and caramel filling inside where it belongs!
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Custom Toppings: Don’t hesitate to go wild with optional toppings. Add melted chocolate or crushed nuts before baking for a richer flavor experience in your Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough circles ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. Simply roll out the pie crust, cut into circles, and fill with Hershey Kisses, then seal and store them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, just brush on the egg wash, sprinkle with sugar, and pop them in the oven. This method ensures that your cookies remain fresh and delicious, giving you the indulgent flavors of freshly-baked treats with minimal effort when it’s time to serve.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best refrigerated pie crust?
Absolutely! When choosing a refrigerated pie crust, look for one that is well-packaged and has a good expiration date. For optimal flavor, I recommend using brands that contain minimal preservatives. If you have the time, making your own pie crust can elevate the flavor and texture, giving your Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies a wonderful homemade touch.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! After baking, allow your cookies to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flaky texture and gooey interior. Alternatively, if you wish to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Can I freeze these cookies, and how?
Definitely! To freeze your Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies, let them cool completely first. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, layering parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
What if my cookies open up while baking?
Oh no! If you notice that some cookies have opened up during baking, don’t worry—this can happen if the dough edges weren’t sealed properly. To prevent this, make sure to press the edges firmly together when folding the dough over the filling. If it happens, you can still drizzle caramel on top and enjoy the unique look—it will still taste delicious!
Are these cookies safe for pets or people with allergies?
Absolutely! While these Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies are a delightful treat for humans, keep in mind that they contain chocolate and other ingredients that are unsafe for pets, especially dogs. If you’re concerned about allergies, always check your ingredient labels for potential allergens like nuts and dairy. If needed, you can use hypoallergenic replacements to cater to your dietary requirements.
Can I modify the flavors or add toppings?
Very much so! These cookies are incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with flavored Hershey Kisses, such as caramel or almond, for different taste experiences. Additionally, you can sprinkle with chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for a unique twist. The beauty of these Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillow Cookies is making them your own with endless variations!
Decadent Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillows You Need to Try
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or non-stick spray.
- Roll out the thawed pie crust on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick and cut out 2.5-inch circles.
- Place one Hershey Kiss at the center of each dough circle and fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, sealing the edges.
- Whisk the egg white with 1 Tbsp of water and brush this mixture over each cookie.
- Sprinkle granulated sugar or sea salt on each cookie and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow cooling on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then drizzle with caramel topping and sprinkle with sea salt before serving.
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