1 c plus 1 T butter, soft
1 c sugar
½ c packed brown sugar
2 t vanilla
2 T real maple syrup
2 eggs
2¾ c flour
1 t baking soda
½ t salt
1 c chocolate chunks
½ c milk chocolate chips
½ c caramel bits
3 T heavy whipping cream
coarse sea salt to taste
Soften butter in the microwave. In a bowl mix together butter and sugar until creamed. Add vanilla and maple syrup and mix until smooth. Add eggs; beat slowly until incorporated. Slowly add flour, baking soda and salt, mix until a smooth dough forms. The dough should feel dry – if it sticks to your hands, add a few more T of flour. Stir in chocolate chips. If desired nuts can be added. Melt caramels and cream in the microwave for 2 minutes. Stir well until melted and smooth.
Press half of the dough mixture into a parchment lined 9 inch cast iron skillet. Spread caramel over the dough. Cover with another layer of cookie dough. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes for gooey center. For center to be fully baked cover with foil and bake another 10-15 minutes. (Either way is good) Remove from oven, sprinkle with sea salt, and cool for one hour before cutting. Serve with a dip of ice cream.
