Description
These rich and buttery Holiday Caramel Thumbprint Treats are a festive favorite! With a crisp, nut-coated exterior and a gooey caramel center, these sweet treats are the perfect addition to any holiday cookie platter.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, separated
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups finely chopped nuts (such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
- Caramel ice cream topping (for filling)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg yolks and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg whites.
- Dip each dough ball into the egg whites, then roll in the finely chopped nuts until coated.
- Place the nut-coated dough balls on the ungreased cookie sheets.
- Press a deep indentation in the center of each cookie using your thumb.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are set but not browned.
- Remove from the oven and immediately press down the center of each cookie again to create a deeper indentation.
- Fill each indentation with caramel topping.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- These cookies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- For a variation, try using different types of jam or chocolate in place of the caramel topping.
- Ensure the cookies cool completely to avoid the caramel melting away when stored.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes