Salted Caramel Thumbprint Treats (Printable Version)
Buttery thumbprint cookies filled with smooth caramel and topped with flaky sea salt for a festive treat.
# Everything You’ll Need:
→ Cookie Base
01 -
2 sticks unsalted butter, softened (16 tablespoons)
02 -
1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 -
2 large egg yolks
04 -
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
05 -
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
06 -
1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Salted Caramel Filling
07 -
1 cup granulated sugar
08 -
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
09 -
1/2 cup heavy cream, room temperature
10 -
1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt, adjust to taste
# Steps to Cook:
01 -
Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Gradually incorporate all-purpose flour and salt on low speed until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
02 -
Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie and roll into smooth balls. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet spaced 2 inches apart. Create an indentation in the center of each ball using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon. Refrigerate the tray for 30 minutes to help the cookies maintain their shape.
03 -
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 14 to 16 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. If the wells puff up during baking, gently press them again while the cookies are still warm. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.
04 -
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar while stirring regularly until it liquefies and attains a deep amber color. Immediately add cubed butter, whisking constantly. Remove from heat, slowly whisk in room-temperature heavy cream until smooth, returning briefly to very low heat if needed. Stir in flaky sea salt. Allow the caramel to cool until thick but still pourable.
05 -
Spoon or pipe the caramel into the cooled cookie wells, filling generously without overflowing. Allow the caramel to set at room temperature or refrigerate briefly for a cleaner presentation before serving.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Chilling the cookie dough before baking helps retain the indentations and prevents spreading.