Gochujang Caramel Cookies Recipe
If you’re someone who enjoys pushing the boundaries of traditional baking, Gochujang Caramel Cookies recipe might just be your new favorite treat. This unique recipe blends the savory, spicy kick of gochujang (Korean fermented chili paste) with the rich sweetness of caramel, resulting in a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly addictive. Whether you’re a culinary adventurer or just looking to impress at your next gathering, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
A Brief History Of Gochujang Caramel Cookies:
Gochujang has long been a staple in Korean cuisine, typically used in savory dishes like bibimbap and tteokbokki. Its complex flavor profile—a combination of umami, spice, and subtle sweetness—has made it a beloved ingredient worldwide. The idea of incorporating gochujang into desserts, however, is a more recent innovation, reflecting a growing trend of blending savory and sweet flavors in Western and fusion cuisines. This recipe is a delightful nod to that trend, marrying the heat of gochujang with the buttery sweetness of caramel for a truly unique cookie experience.

Gochujang Caramel Cookies
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons gochujang paste
- 1 1/4 cups (155g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Caramel Drizzle:
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat and PreparePreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Step 2: Make the Cookie DoughIn a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).Add the egg, vanilla extract, and gochujang paste. Beat until fully incorporated.In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 3: Bake the CookiesBake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
- Step 4: Make the Caramel DrizzleIn a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, sugar, butter, and a pinch of salt.Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and turns a golden caramel color (about 5 minutes).Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Step 5: AssembleDrizzle the caramel sauce over the cooled cookies using a spoon or piping bag.Let the caramel set for a few minutes before serving.
Video
Similar Recipes to Try:
Spicy Chocolate Chip Cookies – Add a hint of chili powder to your favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe for a similar sweet-heat combination.
Salted Caramel Brownies – The perfect blend of rich chocolate and salted caramel.
Miso Butterscotch Blondies – Another creative use of savory ingredients in desserts.
Chili Honey Glazed Donuts – Sweet donuts with a spicy honey glaze.
Sriracha Caramel Popcorn – A crunchy, spicy-sweet snack.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Gochujang Caramel Cookies Recipe:
1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making my own?
Yes, you can substitute store-bought caramel sauce to save time.
2. Is gochujang very spicy?
Gochujang has a moderate heat level, but it’s also sweet and savory. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
4. What can I use instead of gochujang?
You can try sriracha or a mild chili paste, but the flavor profile will differ slightly.
5. How should I store these cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
6. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, freeze the dough balls on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
7. Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Use vegan butter, a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water), and coconut cream for the caramel.
8. What’s the best way to drizzle the caramel?
A spoon works fine, but a piping bag or squeeze bottle gives a cleaner look.
9. Can I make these cookies spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for an extra kick.
10. What pairs well with these cookies?
They’re great with milk, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion:
Gochujang Caramel Cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a conversation starter and a delightful surprise for your taste buds. Perfect for adventurous eaters or anyone looking to expand their dessert repertoire, these cookies blend global flavors in a way that’s both familiar and exciting. Give them a try and discover a new favorite!
YouTube Video Credits:
Food Wishes
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