Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies

these Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies are a must-try! A buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread base is filled with luscious caramel and topped with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for the ultimate indulgence.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Caramel Filling:

• 15 soft caramels (such as Werther’s or Kraft), unwrapped

• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• Flaky sea salt (such as Maldon)

• Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cookies

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

  3. Mix in the vanilla extract, followed by the flour and salt, until the dough comes together.

  4. Scoop 1-inch balls of dough and roll them between your hands. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.

  5. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently press an indentation in the center of each cookie.

  2. Bake the Cookies

  6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

  7. If the indentations puff up while baking, gently press them back down with a spoon after removing them from the oven.

  8. Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack.

  3. Make the Caramel Filling

  9. In a small saucepan (or microwave-safe bowl), melt the caramels and heavy cream together over low heat, stirring until smooth.

  10. Stir in the vanilla extract and let it cool slightly until thick but still pourable.

  4. Assemble & Finish

  11. Spoon warm caramel into the center of each cookie.

  12. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel before it sets.

  13. Allow the caramel to cool completely before serving.

  14. Tips for Perfect Cookies

      ✔️ Chill the dough: If your dough is too soft, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before rolling.
      ✔️ Use a piping bag: For a neat caramel filling, pipe it into the cookies instead of spooning.
      ✔️ Store properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

      Enjoy your Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies—a sweet, buttery, and slightly salty treat that’s absolutely irresistible! 🍪