salted caramel chocolate chip cookiesJust the words "salted caramel" are enough to get me excited. Add them to chocolate chip cookies, and I can think of almost nothing better.

From Virtually Homemade, these salted caramel chocolate chip cookies are some of my all-time favorites. They are buttery and rich, and the touch of salt adds the perfect punch. These cookies are so good they're scary -- even scarier is how easy they are to whip up and how well they go with coffee ... or wine ... or milk.

Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, room temperature
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 large eggs
2 cups Nestle Toll House semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup crushed Werther's Original candies
1/2 tablespoon kosher salt
Cooking Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Combine flour, baking soda and salt in a small bowl.

Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar and vanilla extract in a large bowl until creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in chips and caramels.

Drop by rounded tablespoon onto cookie sheet lined with parchment or a silpat.

Bake for 9-11 minutes or until golden brown. Sprinkle with desired amount of kosher salt. Cool on baking sheets for a few minutes and then transfer to a wire rack.