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Cozy Butter Pecan Thumbprint Cookies with Caramel Filling

butter pecan thumbprint cookies - featured image
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These thumbprint cookies feature a buttery, nutty crust with toasted pecans and a gooey caramel center, perfect for cozy occasions and quick baking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
  • Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade), about 1 teaspoon per cookie

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread chopped pecans evenly on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool completely.
  2. In a large bowl, beat softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
  5. Fold in the cooled toasted pecans gently with a spatula.
  6. Scoop about 1 tablespoon (15g) of dough per cookie and roll into balls. Place 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Using your thumb or back of a melon baller, press an indentation in the center of each cookie.
  8. Bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
  9. Remove from oven and immediately fill each thumbprint with about 1 teaspoon of caramel sauce. If caramel is too runny, chill slightly before filling.
  10. Return cookies to oven for 2-3 minutes to set the caramel slightly.
  11. Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

If dough is too sticky, chill for 15-20 minutes before shaping. Dip thumb in flour to prevent sticking. Use thicker caramel or chill caramel slightly to prevent spilling. Add caramel while cookies are warm for best results. Dough can be refrigerated up to 2 days before baking. Cookies keep well at room temperature for 3 days, refrigerate up to 1 week, or freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: butter pecan cookies, thumbprint cookies, caramel filling, easy cookies, fall cookies, holiday cookies, quick baking

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/cozy-butter-pecan-thumbprint-cookies-with-caramel-filling-recipe-tips/