Irresistibly Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Caramel Cookies
Bite into a unique blend of sweet and spicy with these Gochujang Caramel Cookies. Combining the deep flavor of gochujang with rich caramel, these cookies offer a delightful twist to your regular cookie recipe. Your taste buds will thank you as you explore this fun fusion of flavors.
Why Make This Recipe
Gochujang Caramel Cookies stand out for their unique flavor profile. The heat from gochujang balances the sweetness of caramel, creating a cookie that surprises and delights. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves to experiment with traditional flavors, making your dessert table exciting and memorable. Plus, these cookies are simple enough for anyone to whip up on a casual baking day.

How to Make Gochujang Caramel Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Step by Step:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually blend into the creamed mixture.
- Divide the dough in half, and stir in gochujang to one half and leave the other half plain.
- Take a tablespoon of each dough and swirl them together on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of each cookie mound.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

How to Serve Gochujang Caramel Cookies
Serve your Gochujang Caramel Cookies warm, straight from the oven, or allow them to cool completely for a delightful treat with tea or coffee. They also make a creative addition to dessert platters at gatherings.
How to Store Gochujang Caramel Cookies
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag. Just remember to thaw them before enjoying.
Tips to Make Gochujang Caramel Cookies
- Blend the gochujang well with the dough to ensure an even distribution of flavor.
- Adjust the amount of gochujang based on your spice tolerance. Start with a small amount if you’re unsure, then increase it gradually.
- For a fun twist, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the plain half of the dough before swirling.
Variation
For an interesting flavor note, try using a different type of nut butter instead of butter or add crushed nuts for additional texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of chili paste?
Yes, you can substitute gochujang with another chili paste, but the flavor profile will change. Sriracha or harissa may work, but experiment carefully with the quantity.
2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Ensure that your other ingredients, like baking soda and caramel sauce, are also gluten-free.
3. Can I bake these cookies in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and bake as directed. This method allows the flavors to deepen, resulting in even tastier cookies!
Enjoy this delectable sweet and spicy treat, and don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes like High Protein Chicken Salad or Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice for your next meal!

Gochujang Caramel Cookies
Ingredients
For the cookie dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure butter is at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed Light or dark brown sugar can be used
- 2 large eggs Room temperature eggs work best
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste) Adjust based on spice tolerance
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce Store-bought or homemade
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually blend into the creamed mixture.
- Divide the dough in half, and stir in gochujang to one half and leave the other half plain.
- Take a tablespoon of each dough and swirl them together on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of each cookie mound.
Baking
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooling
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
