• Let’s break down how to whip up these delicious cookies. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be rewarded with the best kitchen sink cookies ever.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

• Make sure you have your measuring cups, mixing bowls, and a baking sheet ready. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of fine sea salt. This mix is essential because it ensures your cookies rise perfectly.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

• In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of packed golden brown sugar, and ¼ cup of white sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream these together until light and fluffy. This step is key to achieving a soft texture.

Step 4: Add the Egg and Extracts

• Beat in 1 large room-temperature egg and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract until well combined. Don’t skip this step. The egg adds moisture and helps bind the mixture.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those cookies to be soft and chewy.

Step 6: Fold in the Goodies

• Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips, ½ cup of crushed pretzel pieces, ½ cup of diced caramels, and ¼ cup of chopped nuts. Use a spatula to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

• Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave space between them – they’ll spread. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This critical step helps them finish baking and enhances their texture.