Looking for a cookie recipe that combines the sweetness of caramel with a hint of spice?
These salted caramel ginger thumbprint cookies are the perfect treat! In this article, we’ll show you how to make these delicious cookies that are sure to become a favorite in your household.
What are Salted Caramel Ginger Thumbprint Cookies?
Salted caramel ginger thumbprint cookies are a delightful twist on traditional thumbprint cookies.
They are made with a buttery ginger cookie dough, filled with gooey salted caramel, and sprinkled with sea salt for a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
These cookies are easy to make and are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Ginger Cookie Dough:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1/4 cup molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Salted Caramel Filling:
1 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
Making the Ginger Cookie Dough:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, and cinnamon. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
Making the Salted Caramel Filling:
In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula.
Cook the sugar until it melts and turns a deep amber color, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the butter to the saucepan and stir until melted and combined.
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth.
Stir in the sea salt.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the caramel cool for a few minutes.
Assembling the Cookies:
Spoon a small amount of the salted caramel into the center of each cookie.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Conclusion
Salted caramel ginger thumbprint cookies are a delicious and unique twist on traditional thumbprint cookies.
With their buttery ginger cookie base, gooey caramel filling, and sprinkle of sea salt, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite in your household.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the sweet and spicy flavors of these delightful cookies.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce if you prefer. Simply spoon a small amount into the center of each cookie before baking.
2. Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies after they have cooled completely.
Place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Thaw at room temperature before serving.
3. Can I substitute the sea salt with regular table salt?
Yes, you can use regular table salt instead of sea salt, but the flavor may be slightly different.
Sea salt is recommended for its larger crystals and more delicate flavor.
4. Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cookie dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Just let it come to room temperature before rolling and baking.
5. Can I add other spices to the cookie dough?
Yes, feel free to experiment with other spices such as nutmeg, cloves, or allspice to add even more flavor to the cookies.