Panera Kitchen Sink Cookie Recipe

Name: Panera Kitchen Sink Cookie Recipe – Easy Meal Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 9
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup lightly packed golden brown sugar; 1/4 cup fine white sugar; 1 large farm-fresh egg; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla bean extract; 3/4 cup chocolate chunks; 1/2 cup salted pretzels, coarsely crushed; 1/2 cup soft caramels, diced into small pieces; 2 tablespoons toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped

Last Updated on February 22, 2025

If you’re like me, the term “kitchen sink” makes you think of a hearty concoction, where everything in the pantry comes together in glorious harmony. After all, it’s like finding a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow—colorful, diverse, and wonderfully satisfying.

The Panera Kitchen Sink Cookie takes this concept to a whole new level, creating a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Before we dive into this cookie creation, let’s chat about what pairs well with it: Milk, Coffee or, Ice Cream.

What is the Panera Kitchen Sink Cookie?

The Panera Kitchen Sink Cookie is more than just a cookie. It’s a treasure trove of flavors, combining chocolate, crushed pretzels, soft caramels, and nuts. Each bite offers a crunchy, chewy, and sweet experience that invites you to reach for another.

This cookie has a magical way of transforming simple ingredients into an extraordinary dessert. Trust me; once you’ve tasted it, you’ll want to recreate it again and again!

Why This Recipe Works?

This recipe isn’t just thrown together haphazardly; there are solid reasons it stands out!

Diverse Textures: The mix of soft caramels, crunchy pretzels, and chocolate creates a unique sensation. Each element plays a role, whether it’s gooiness from the caramels or the satisfying bite of the pretzels.
Balanced Flavor: The sweetness from the chocolate and caramel is offset by the salty pretzel pieces. This mix results in a flavor profile that keeps your taste buds intrigued, ensuring no single note overwhelms the palate.
Easy to Follow: Even if you’re a novice, the step-by-step instructions guide you smoothly through the process. It’s less about perfection and more about enjoying the journey of baking.
Adaptability: This cookie can be easily modified. Want to swap walnuts for pecans? Go for it! Want to add a sprinkle of sea salt on top? Absolutely! It welcomes creativity.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

Here’s a rundown of everything you’ll need to whip up these delightful cookies:

1 ¼ cups unbleached all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ cup unsalted butter (equivalent to one stick), softened
½ cup lightly packed golden brown sugar
¼ cup fine white sugar
1 large farm-fresh egg
2 teaspoons pure vanilla bean extract
¾ cup chocolate chunks
½ cup salted pretzels, coarsely crushed
½ cup soft caramels, diced into small pieces
2 tablespoons toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped

Panera Kitchen Sink Cookie Copycat Recipe

How To Make The Panera Kitchen Sink Cookie?

Now, let’s jump into the fun part—baking! Here’s a detailed guide to creating these marvelous cookies.

Step 1: Gather Your Equipment

Before getting started, make sure you have a mixing bowl, measuring cups, a baking sheet, parchment paper, and a whisk or electric mixer.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This preheating step is crucial. You want those cookies to bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In your mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk these together until well combined. This will ensure that the leavening agent is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl, add the softened butter, golden brown sugar, and white sugar. Beat these together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, crack your egg into the mixture and add the vanilla extract. Continue mixing until well blended. This step adds richness and flavor to your dough.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing thoroughly. The dough should come together nicely without being too sticky.

Step 7: Fold in the Mix-Ins

Here’s where the magic happens! Gently fold in the chocolate chunks, crushed pretzels, diced caramels, and nuts. You want to ensure each cookie is packed with delightful surprises.

Step 8: Scoop and Bake

Use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to portion out the dough onto a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them; they can go from perfect to overdone in a flash!

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let them cool on the sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set without falling apart.

Tips & Tricks

Here are some helpful hints to ensure your cookies come out perfectly every single time:

Chill the Dough: If your dough seems too soft, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes. This makes scooping easier and helps the cookies maintain their shape.
Use Quality Ingredients: The better your ingredients, the better your cookies will taste! Look for high-quality chocolate and organic butter if possible.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Experiment with Flavors: Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. It enhances the flavors beautifully!
Bake in Batches: If you’re making a double batch, bake them in two separate rounds. This ensures even baking and prevents the cookies from steaming.

How Do You Store The Leftovers?

If you manage to have some cookies left (a rarity!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

They’ll stay fresh for about three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just wrap each cookie in plastic wrap, place them in a zip-top bag, and they should last for up to three months!

What sides would complement the Panera Kitchen Sink Cookie?

Pairing your cookie with a few delightful sides can elevate the experience. Here are some suggestions:

Fruit Salad: Fresh, vibrant fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookie. Think of strawberries, blueberries, and diced mangoes tossed together.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries. This creamy, tangy treat complements the sweetness of the cookie while providing a satisfying crunch.
Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses, especially creamy brie or tangy goat cheese, balances the sweetness beautifully. Add some nuts or dried fruits for an extra touch.

What alternatives can you use for the ingredients if they are not present in your kitchen?

Don’t worry if you’re missing a few ingredients! Here are alternatives you can use:

All-Purpose Flour: If you don’t have all-purpose flour, consider using whole wheat flour. It adds a nuttier flavor while still providing structure to the cookie.
Unsalted Butter: You can use coconut oil or margarine if unsalted butter isn’t available. These alternatives affect the flavor slightly but still work well.
Chocolate Chunks: If you’re out of chocolate chunks, try using chocolate chips or even chopped-up chocolate bars. They all work beautifully.
Nuts: If nuts aren’t on hand or allergies are a concern, you can omit them completely or substitute with seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

Conclusion

Baking the Panera Kitchen Sink Cookie brings a whirlwind of flavors and textures to your kitchen. It invites you to unleash your creativity while satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether paired with a warm glass of milk or a refreshing fruit salad, this cookie is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Baking doesn’t always have to be complicated, and this recipe proves that delicious results can come from simple ingredients and an adventurous spirit! So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on this delightful baking journey. You won’t regret it!

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Print Recipe

Panera Kitchen Sink Cookie Recipe – Easy Meal Recipe

Author: Mary Siegel Cuisine: American Courses: Dessert & Drinks

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 25 mins

Servings: 9 Calories: 399 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

I first stepped into the world of baking during a rainy day at home, looking for a sweet escape that didn't involve going out. That's when I whipped up my first batch of the Panera Kitchen Sink Cookies.

They’re not just another cookie; they’re an experience. Overflowing with mix-ins, these cookies boast a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Say goodbye to ordinary cookies! I've forever been changed by the delightful chaos of the Kitchen Sink Cookie. This recipe has truly won my heart, and I can’t wait to share it with you.