Caramelized Sugar Cookies

I'm sad to say that sugar cookies are probably my least favorite cookie. I'll eat them if I have to, but I don't usually go out of my way to find them.

However, today I found and tried a recipe for caramelized sugar cookies, and I must say that they are pretty tasty.

The recipe is a little time consuming, but very easy at the same time. Here is the recipe, adapted from Sunset Magazine's website.

Caramelized Sugar Cookies
1 cup sugar (divided)
3/4 cup butter
2 Tbsp water
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 1/4 cups flour
1/2 tsp baking powder

Melt 1/2 cup of sugar until light golden in color (about 6 minutes). Pour onto a buttered piece of foil set on a baking sheet. Let stand until hard (about 5 minutes). Break into chunks then smash into 1/8"-1/4" pieces.

Beat butter and remaining 1/2 cup sugar until well blended. Beat in 2 Tbsp water and vanilla until smooth. Mix flour and baking powder. Stir into butter mixture until well incorporated. Stir in crushed caramel. Drop dough in 1 1/2 tsp portions on greased baking sheets. Bake at 325 degrees for 12-15 minutes. Makes 55 cookies. (I only got 36).

Notes: 1. I crushed my caramel in a mini chopper and it worked fine. 2. The 2 Tbsp water seemed to make the dough a little loose, so I added an extra 1/4 cup of flour. I might try it next time without the water to see if it is absolutely necessary. 3. Greasing the cookie sheets well is crucial - that caramel really sticks! Parchment or a silpat would be even better. 4. Enjoy!