Espresso Caramel Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, robust flavor of espresso with the sweet, buttery goodness of caramel. These cookies feature a tender, espresso-infused base with a luscious caramel center, making them an irresistible option for coffee enthusiasts. Perfect for special occasions or as an indulgent everyday snack, these cookies offer a sophisticated twist on the classic thumbprint cookie, providing a harmonious balance of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, Espresso Caramel Thumbprint Cookies are sure to impress.
What are Espresso Caramel Thumbprint Cookies?
Espresso Caramel Thumbprint Cookies are a sophisticated and flavorful twist on the traditional thumbprint cookie. These cookies boast a tender, crumbly texture that melts in your mouth, with the rich, aromatic flavor of espresso perfectly complementing the sweet, buttery notes of the caramel filling.
The hallmark of these cookies is the thumbprint technique, where a small indentation is made in the center of each dough ball before baking. This well is later filled with a smooth, decadent caramel, creating a delightful contrast in both texture and flavor.
Combining the bold taste of espresso with the creamy sweetness of caramel, these cookies offer a gourmet experience that is both indulgent and satisfying. Ideal for coffee lovers and special occasions, Espresso Caramel Thumbprint Cookies bring together two beloved flavors in a delightful, bite-sized treat.
Espresso Caramel Thumbprint Cookies
24
servings20
minutes15
minutes120
kcalA delightful blend of rich espresso-infused cookies with a gooey caramel center, perfect for coffee enthusiasts and sweet tooth cravings.
Ingredients
- For the Cookies:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
- For the Caramel Filling:
1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 cup heavy cream
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Cookie Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Shape Cookies:
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a small indentation in the center of each ball.
- Bake Cookies:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Caramel Filling:
- In a small saucepan, warm the caramel sauce over low heat.
- Stir in the heavy cream until smooth and well combined.
- Fill Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, spoon a small amount of the caramel filling into the indentation of each cookie.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the caramel to set before serving. Enjoy the cookies with a cup of coffee or as a sweet treat on their own.
Equipment
Notes
- Soften the Butter: Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature to achieve a creamy texture in the dough, which will help in mixing and creating a smooth consistency.
- Adjust Espresso Flavor: For a stronger espresso flavor, you can increase the amount of espresso powder according to your taste preference. Start with the recommended amount and add more if desired.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
- Caramel Filling: If the caramel filling becomes too thick or difficult to work with, gently warm it over low heat to make it easier to spoon into the cookie indentations. This will ensure a smooth and even filling.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 120kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Sugar: 10g
Conclusion
Espresso Caramel Thumbprint Cookies offer a delightful blend of rich espresso and sweet caramel, creating a sophisticated treat perfect for any occasion. Their unique flavor profile and tender texture make them a standout addition to any dessert table.
Give this recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee for the ultimate indulgence, and enjoy the harmonious flavors that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth and coffee cravings alike.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso powder?
Yes, you can use finely ground coffee as a substitute, but the flavor may be milder compared to using espresso powder.
2. How can I make homemade caramel sauce for the filling?
To make homemade caramel sauce, heat sugar in a saucepan until it melts and turns golden brown, then stir in butter and heavy cream until smooth.
3. Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these cookies gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking.
4. How long do these cookies stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months.
5. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
You can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty taste.
