I recommend always baking a test cookie to make sure they are turning out how you want them to! If your cookies aren’t spreading, there are a few potential culprits. You can flatten the dough balls slightly before baking or whack the pan against the counter after baking. You can also double check to make sure the oven temperature is correct with an external thermometer or reduce the amount of flour next time.

So glad you love this recipe! If you’re looking for a soft chocolate base (that actually stays soft!) I recommend using this base and omitting the caramel in favor of chocolate chips: https://cookiesfordays.com/chocolate-caramel-cookies/.

I have never tried it! You can give it a go, but it will make the cookies crispier because coconut oil doesn’t have as much moisture as butter.

I have only been able to find them at my local Walmart!

Yes, they are!

The butter should be softened.

I haven’t tried it, but it should work. It may change the flavor or texture or the cookie slightly, but it will still be yummy!