Salted Caramel Coconut Thumbprint Cookies

If you’re on the lookout for a cookie that combines the richness of caramel with the tropical flair of coconut, then look no further! These Salted Caramel Coconut Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that will satisfy your sweet cravings and impress anyone lucky enough to take a bite. With their chewy texture, buttery flavor, and a sprinkle of coarse sea salt on top, these cookies are perfect for any occasion—from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations.

Prepare to be whisked away to cookie heaven as you create these gorgeous thumbprints filled with luscious caramel and sprinkled with a touch of sea salt. Let’s dive into the details of this delectable recipe!

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Salted Caramel Coconut Thumbprint Cookies recipe is not only straightforward but also incredibly reliable. With a well-balanced ingredient list and a method that’s easy to follow, you can achieve perfect cookies every time. The combination of sweetened shredded coconut and soft caramel creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent. Plus, the added sprinkle of sea salt elevates each bite, making these cookies truly memorable.

The Essentials

To make these mouthwatering cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cup (150g) sweetened shredded coconut – For that chewy, tropical flavor.
• 1 large egg – This binds the ingredients together.
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, cold and diced into small cubes – For a rich, buttery taste.
• 1/2 cup (108g) granulated sugar – To sweeten the dough.
• 1/4 tsp Morton Fine Sea Salt – Balances the sweetness.
• 2 tsp real coconut extract – Enhances the coconut flavor.
• 2 cups (283g) all-purpose flour – The base of the cookie.
• 28 (226g) soft caramels, such as Kraft – For the gooey thumbprint filling.
• 3 1/2 Tbsp heavy cream – To melt the caramels into a smooth filling.
• Morton Coarse Sea Salt, for topping – Adds a salty crunch.

Essential Tools for Success

Gather these tools to ensure your baking journey goes smoothly:

• Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
• Electric mixer or whisk – To cream the butter and sugar together.
• Baking sheets – Where your cookies will bake to perfection.
• Parchment paper – To prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
• Cookie scoop or spoon – For uniform cookie sizes.
• Oven thermometer – To ensure your oven is at the correct temperature.
• Small measuring cup or spoon – For filling the thumbprints with caramel.

Salted Caramel Coconut Thumbprint Cookies: Step-by-Step Guide

Making these cookies is a delightful process! Follow these steps for success:

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold, diced butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer or whisk to cream them together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Coconut Extract

Add the large egg and real coconut extract to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and Morton Fine Sea Salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in the Coconut

Gently fold in the sweetened shredded coconut until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Create Thumbprints

Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, create an indentation in the center of each cookie ball. This is where the caramel will go!

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes.

Step 9: Prepare the Caramel Filling

While the cookies are cooling, place the soft caramels and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 10: Fill the Thumbprints

Once the cookies are cool enough to handle, use a small measuring cup or spoon to fill each thumbprint with the caramel mixture.

Step 11: Add Sea Salt

Sprinkle a pinch of Morton Coarse Sea Salt on top of each caramel-filled thumbprint while the caramel is still warm.

Step 12: Cool and Enjoy!

Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy your Salted Caramel Coconut Thumbprint Cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite hot beverage!

Make It Fit Your Plan

If you are looking to customize this recipe, here are some ideas:

• Try using dark chocolate instead of caramel for a different filling.
• Experiment with unsweetened coconut flakes for a less sweet version.
• Use maple syrup as a substitute for sugar for a more natural sweetener.
• Add chopped nuts to the dough for a bit of crunch.

Avoid These Mistakes

Here are some common pitfalls to avoid while making your Salted Caramel Coconut Thumbprint Cookies:

• Don’t overmix the dough—mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
• Make sure the butter is cold when you start; this helps achieve a flaky texture.
• Allow the cookies to cool slightly before filling them with caramel to prevent oozing.
• Be careful with the salt—adding too much can overpower the sweetness of the caramel.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

To ensure your cookies stay fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigerate: Store the cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
• Freeze: You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop the dough into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Reheat: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Quick Q&A

Can I use fresh coconut instead of shredded coconut?

Yes! You can use fresh grated coconut, but make sure to dry it out slightly to avoid excess moisture in the cookies.

What if I can’t find soft caramels?

You can use unwrapped caramel candies, but they may need to be softened with a little extra cream or in the microwave.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

Look for lightly golden edges on the cookies; they will continue to firm up as they cool.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative, use a flax egg in place of the egg, and choose dairy-free caramels.

Serve with These

For a delightful pairing, serve your Salted Caramel Coconut Thumbprint Cookies with:

• Vanilla Milkshake
• Vanilla Latte
• Vegan Chai Latte
• Iced Caramel Latte

Bring It to the Table

These Salted Caramel Coconut Thumbprint Cookies are not just treats; they’re a celebration of flavors that come together beautifully. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to indulge in something sweet, these cookies will surely please your taste buds and become a favorite in your recipe collection. Don’t forget to share them with friends and family—they’ll be asking for the recipe in no time!

As you embark on your cookie-baking adventure, remember that the joy is not just in the final product but in the process of creating something delicious. Enjoy every moment, and happy baking!