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Genius Salted Caramel Dessert

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Genius Salted Caramel Dessert is a creamy, decadent treat with layers of buttery cookie crust, silky salted caramel, and optional whipped topping. It’s elegant yet easy, delivering a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups crushed cookies or biscuit crumbs (graham crackers, digestives, or shortbread)
  • 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter (for caramel)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt (plus more for topping)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup mascarpone or cream cheese (optional, for creaminess)
  • Whipped cream (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Mix crushed cookies with melted butter. Press into the bottom of a dish or individual cups to form a crust. Chill to set.
  2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it turns amber, swirling the pan (don’t stir).
  3. Once melted, carefully add butter and stir until fully combined.
  4. Slowly add heavy cream while stirring. Mixture will bubble—continue stirring until smooth and thickened slightly.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and sea salt. Let cool slightly.
  6. (Optional) Blend in mascarpone or cream cheese for a creamy caramel layer.
  7. Pour caramel over the chilled crust. Chill for 2–4 hours or overnight until set.
  8. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of flaky salt before serving.

Notes

  • Add chopped toasted nuts for crunch.
  • Drizzle with dark chocolate ganache for extra decadence.
  • Try different cookie bases like gingersnaps or chocolate wafers.
  • Use Greek yogurt mixed with cream cheese for a lighter version.
  • Don’t stir sugar while melting to avoid grainy caramel.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/genius-salted-caramel-dessert/