Chocolate Caramel Thumbprint Cookies

Name: Chocolate Caramel Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup caramel sauce; Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

Highlighted under: Dreamy Dessert Lab

Indulge in these delightful chocolate caramel thumbprint cookies, featuring a rich chocolate base and a gooey caramel center.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-01T18:10:30.720Z

These chocolate caramel thumbprint cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Their rich chocolate flavor combined with the sweet, sticky caramel makes them irresistible!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with gooey caramel
Perfectly crispy edges with a soft center
A fun and interactive baking experience

      

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Chocolate caramel thumbprint cookies are not just a dessert; they are a delightful treat that can elevate any occasion. Whether it's a birthday party, a festive gathering, or simply a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress. Their rich chocolate flavor combined with the gooey caramel center creates a luxurious experience that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

These cookies also make for a wonderful homemade gift. Pack them in a decorative box or jar, and you have a thoughtful present for friends or family. The combination of textures and flavors will leave everyone craving more. Plus, the eye-catching thumbprint filled with caramel adds an artisanal touch that showcases your baking skills.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your chocolate caramel thumbprint cookies, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. This step is crucial for creating a light and fluffy dough. Also, when measuring flour and cocoa powder, use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing the ingredients, which can lead to dense cookies.

Don’t skip the step of creating indentations in the dough before baking. This not only adds to the cookie’s appearance but also ensures there’s a perfect space for the caramel filling. After baking, let the cookies cool for a few minutes before adding the caramel; this helps prevent the filling from melting away.

Customizing Your Cookies

One of the best things about these thumbprint cookies is their versatility. While the rich chocolate and caramel combination is a classic, feel free to experiment with different fillings. Consider using fruit preserves, peanut butter, or even a nutty chocolate ganache for a unique twist. Each variation will offer a new flavor profile and keep your cookie-making adventures exciting.

Additionally, you can get creative with toppings. After filling the thumbprints with caramel, try drizzling melted chocolate on top or rolling the edges in chopped nuts or sprinkles. These small touches can transform your cookies from delicious to extraordinary, making them perfect for special occasions or just a fun baking project at home.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg

For the Filling

1/2 cup caramel sauce
Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting the recipe!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla and egg. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.

Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb to create a small indentation in the center of each cookie.

Bake and Fill

Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until set. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Once cooled slightly, fill each indentation with a spoonful of caramel sauce and sprinkle with sea salt if desired.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy your delicious chocolate caramel thumbprint cookies!

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Storage and Freshness

To keep your chocolate caramel thumbprint cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay delicious for up to a week, although they may not last that long once your family or guests get a taste! If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze the cookies before adding the caramel filling. Just thaw them at room temperature and fill them just before serving.

If you're making these cookies ahead of time, consider preparing the dough and freezing it in pre-formed balls. This way, you can bake fresh cookies on demand, ensuring you always have a warm, homemade treat ready to share.

Pairing Suggestions

Chocolate caramel thumbprint cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A glass of cold milk is a classic choice, enhancing the rich chocolate flavors. For adults, consider serving these cookies with a robust cup of coffee or a hot chocolate for a truly indulgent experience.

If you want to complement the flavors even further, try pairing these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm cookies juxtaposed with the cold ice cream create a delightful contrast that will make every bite a treat to remember.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.

→ What can I use instead of caramel sauce?

You can use chocolate ganache or fruit preserves as alternative fillings.

→ How do I store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.