Name: Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Flour; 1/8 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter; 1/4 cup White Sugar; 1/4 cup Light Brown Sugar; 1 large Egg (separated); 1 teaspoon Vanilla; 1/2 cup Almonds (chopped); 20 Kraft Caramel Squares (unwrapped); 1/4 cup Heavy Whipping Cream; Sea Salt (for assembly)

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There’s something so indulgent about Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies. I remember the first time I made them; it was a rainy afternoon and the perfect excuse to spend some time in the kitchen. The aroma of baking cookies filled the house, and I couldn’t resist sneaking a taste of the buttery dough. There’s something about the combination of sweet, creamy caramel and a hint of salt that makes these cookies truly irresistible. They’re not just any cookies; they’re little bites of joy that bring a smile to everyone’s face.

These cookies have a special way of brightening up any gathering, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday party. The thumbprint filled with gooey caramel and sprinkled with a pinch of sea salt is like a hug in a cookie form! Not only do they taste amazing, but they’re also a fun treat to make with friends or family. Rolling the dough into balls and creating those little indents is always a joyful experience.

As I bake these delicious morsels, I often think about how these Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies can create treasured memories. The laughter shared over the kitchen counter, the little mess of flour and sugar, and the anticipation of that first bite. Trust me; this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Whisk, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

What Makes This Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies Special

They Are Deliciously Unique

What sets Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies apart from regular cookies is their extraordinary filling. The combination of rich caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt creates a flavor explosion that is both savory and sweet. Every bite is a delightful surprise that keeps you coming back for more.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These cookies are incredibly versatile! Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a cozy gathering, or just for yourself, they fit the bill perfectly. Their elegant appearance makes them look fancy, yet they are simple enough for a casual snack.

Great for Sharing

Sharing is caring, and these cookies are made to be shared! They make an excellent gift for friends or family. Just package them up in a cute box, and you have a heartfelt gift that everyone will love.

Easy to Make

Don’t worry if you’re not a baking expert! This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies ready to go. Even novice bakers will feel accomplished making these treats.

Customizable for Everyone

You can easily customize these cookies to fit different tastes. Whether you want to try different nuts, add chocolate chips, or use different types of caramel, the possibilities are endless. Each variation creates a new experience with the same foundational recipe!

A Fun Activity

Baking these Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies is a fun activity for kids and adults alike. Invite your family or friends, and turn it into a baking party. The joy of creating something delicious together is a wonderful way to bond.

Shopping List for Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies

When making Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies, selecting quality ingredients is crucial. Each component plays a vital role in creating a cookie that’s not only delicious but also has the perfect texture. From the rich butter to the sweet caramel, every ingredient contributes to the flavor profile and overall experience.

Flour: 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of flour. This is the foundation of your cookies, providing structure and stability.
Salt: 1/8 teaspoon salt. A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness of the cookies and balances the flavors.
Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened. Butter adds richness and flavor to the cookies, making them tender.
White Sugar: 1/4 cup white sugar. This sweetener helps achieve the perfect texture and adds sweetness.
Light Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup light brown sugar. This sugar adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor to the cookies.
Egg: 1 egg separated. The egg yolk adds richness, while the egg white is used for coating the cookie dough.
Vanilla: 1 teaspoon of vanilla. A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
Almonds: 1/2 cup almonds, chopped. These will be rolled onto the cookies, adding a delightful crunch.
Kraft Caramel Squares: 20 Kraft caramel squares, unwrapped. The star of the show! These provide the gooey filling for the cookies.
Heavy Whipping Cream: 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream. This is combined with the caramel to create a smooth sauce.
Sea Salt: For assembly. A sprinkle of sea salt on top adds a finishing touch that brings out the flavors beautifully.

Step by Step Guide for Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies

Making Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies is a delightful experience, and I’m excited to guide you through it. These steps will ensure your cookies turn out perfectly, each and every time. Let’s get started!

Begin by creaming together the unsalted butter and white sugar in a mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. You want this mixture to be airy to create the perfect cookie texture.
Next, add in the light brown sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla to the butter mixture. Beat until everything is well combined. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the ingredients.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. This will help prevent any flour from flying out of the bowl. Mix until the dough resembles lumpy wet sand and is just combined.
Be cautious not to overbeat the dough, as this can lead to a sticky cookie. Once you’ve reached the desired consistency, it’s time to form the dough into balls. Take about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
After forming the balls, refrigerate them for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. In the meantime, you can prepare your egg white by beating it until frothy.
Once the dough is chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Dip each ball into the beaten egg white, ensuring it’s fully coated, then roll it in the chopped almonds. This adds a lovely crunch to the cookies.
Using your thumb or a round-ended tool, create an indentation in the center of each cookie. This is where the delicious caramel will go later, so make sure it’s deep enough!
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the cookies in the oven and bake them for about 15 minutes or until they are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t overbake!
While your cookies are baking, it’s time to prepare the caramel sauce. In a saucepan over low heat, combine the Kraft caramel squares and heavy whipping cream. Stir continuously for approximately 7 to 8 minutes until the mixture is smooth and melted.
Once out of the oven, remove the cookies from the baking sheet and allow them to cool on a wire rack. After they’ve cooled slightly, fill the indentation of each cookie with the warm caramel sauce. Be generous!
Finally, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each filled cookie. This finishing touch enhances the flavor and gives them that signature taste!

Things Worth Knowing

Chilling the Dough: Refrigerating the cookie dough before baking helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much, ensuring they hold their shape.
Using Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing fresh ingredients like butter and eggs will significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your cookies.
Caramel Consistency: When melting the caramel, keep the heat low and stir constantly to avoid burning.
Adjusting Indentation: Making a deeper indentation allows more caramel to fit in, so feel free to make it a little deeper if you enjoy more filling!

Ways to Customize

If you want to take your Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies to the next level, I’ve got some great ideas for customization. Here are some options to consider:

Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If they last that long!
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to three months. Just thaw before baking!
Pairing: Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. The combination is heavenly!
Chocolate Twist: Drizzle melted chocolate over the caramel for an even richer flavor.
Nut Varieties: Try different nuts like pecans or walnuts in place of almonds for a unique taste.
Flavor Boost: Add a hint of almond extract or espresso powder to the dough for an extra flavor kick.

How to Enjoy Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies

There are endless ways to enjoy your freshly baked Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies. Here are some ideas to enhance your serving experience:

Personal Treat: Enjoy a cookie with your afternoon coffee or tea for a delightful pick-me-up.
Holiday Gatherings: Bring them to potlucks or family gatherings; they’re sure to be a hit!
Gift Giving: Package them in a decorative box as a thoughtful gift for friends or neighbors.
Seasonal Celebrations: These cookies are perfect for seasonal events, from Christmas to birthdays.
Cookie Decorating: Get creative! Use icing to decorate the cookies for special occasions, making them visually appealing.

FAQ

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for almonds, you can easily swap them out for your favorite nuts. Pecans, walnuts, or even hazelnuts can add a unique flavor and texture to your Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies. Just make sure to chop them finely so they adhere well to the cookie!

Yes! To make Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Brands like almond flour or coconut flour can also work well, but be mindful of the texture. The cookies may turn out slightly different, but they will still be delicious!

To keep your Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should maintain their flavor and texture for up to a week. If you want to store them longer, consider freezing them! Just make sure they are fully cooled before sealing in a freezer-friendly bag.

Of course! Adding chocolate to Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies can make them even more decadent. You can mix in chocolate chips to the dough or drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies after they are baked. It’s a delightful addition that complements the caramel beautifully!

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies are truly a special treat that combines the rich flavors of caramel with the satisfying crunch of nuts. They bring joy to any occasion, whether it’s a casual dessert or part of a festive spread. I encourage you to try making these delightful cookies and share them with your loved ones. They’re sure to become a cherished recipe in your baking collection!