Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies with Powdered Sugar

Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies with Powdered Sugar Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 12 minutes | Servings: 24

Introduction

Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies with Powdered Sugar are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of pecans, caramel, and buttery cookies. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you are hosting a holiday party or simply craving a sweet treat.

History

Thumbprint cookies have been a popular dessert for many years, with variations of the recipe found in different cultures around the world. The addition of pecans and caramel to the traditional thumbprint cookie recipe adds a unique and delicious twist to this classic treat.

Ingredients

1.75 cups pecans
0.75 cups sugar
0.5 cups unsalted butter
2 large eggs
2 cups flour
1 tsp baking powder
0.25 tsp salt
48 soft and chewy caramels
confectioners' sugar

How to prepare

Using a food processor, chop 1.25 cups of pecans and transfer them to a bowl.
In the same food processor, combine the remaining pecans and sugar. Pulse until the nuts are finely ground.
Add butter and eggs to the mixture in the food processor. Process until smooth.
Add flour, baking powder, and salt to the mixture. Pulse until well blended.
Transfer the dough into a bowl.
Prepare the cookie sheets.
Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and roll them in the chopped nuts to coat.
Place the coated dough balls on ungreased cookie sheets.
Press a caramel into the center of each dough ball.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
Dust the cookies with confectioners' sugar.

Variations

For a chocolate twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the caramel for a sweet and salty flavor combination.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use soft and chewy caramels for the filling to ensure that they melt perfectly in the center of the cookies.

- Be sure to press the caramel firmly into the center of each dough ball to prevent it from melting and spreading too much during baking.

- Dusting the cookies with confectioners' sugar adds a beautiful finishing touch and enhances the sweetness of the cookies.

Serving Suggestions

Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies are perfect for serving at holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or as a sweet treat with a cup of coffee or tea.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies is to ensure that the dough is well blended and the caramel is pressed firmly into the center of each cookie before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have pecans on hand, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter and dust them with extra confectioners' sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies pair well with a glass of milk, a cup of hot cocoa, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To reheat, place the cookies in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 5 minutes to warm them up.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies are a good source of vitamin E, which is important for skin health and immune function.

Alergens

Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies contain nuts (pecans) and dairy (butter), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies are a delicious and indulgent treat that is best enjoyed in moderation due to their high fat and sugar content.

Summary

Pecan Caramel Thumbprints Cookies with Powdered Sugar are a delicious and indulgent treat that is perfect for any occasion. With a rich buttery cookie base, a gooey caramel center, and a dusting of confectioners' sugar, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha’s house for our weekly baking session. Martha was known for her incredible baking skills, and I always looked forward to learning new recipes from her.

As I entered her kitchen, the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies filled the air. Martha had a mischievous twinkle in her eye as she handed me a plate of pecan caramel thumbprint cookies dusted with powdered sugar. I took a bite and was instantly transported to dessert heaven. The perfect combination of crunchy pecans, gooey caramel, and sweet powdered sugar melted in my mouth, leaving me craving for more.

I begged Martha to teach me the recipe, and she laughed and said, “Oh, this one is a family secret, my dear. But I’ll make an exception for you.” She handed me a worn-out recipe card and began to guide me through the steps. I watched intently as she mixed the ingredients with precision and care, her hands moving with practiced ease.

As the cookies baked in the oven, Martha shared the story behind the recipe. She had learned it from her grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. The secret, she said, was in the caramel filling – a special blend of butter, brown sugar, and cream that gave the cookies their irresistible sweetness.

I listened attentively, soaking in every detail. Martha’s grandmother had been a renowned baker in their small town, known for her delectable treats. She had won numerous baking contests and had a loyal following of customers who couldn’t get enough of her delicious creations.

As the cookies emerged from the oven, golden and fragrant, Martha carefully filled each one with a dollop of homemade caramel. She then rolled them in powdered sugar, giving them a final touch of sweetness and elegance. I couldn’t wait to taste the finished product.

When I finally took a bite of the pecan caramel thumbprint cookie, I knew that I had found a new favorite. The flavors danced on my tongue, rich and indulgent, the perfect balance of sweet and nutty. I savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn such a special recipe.

From that day on, the pecan caramel thumbprint cookies became a staple in my baking repertoire. I made them for family gatherings, holiday parties, and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews. The recipe had become a part of me, a cherished memory of a day spent with a dear friend.

As the years passed, I continued to hone my baking skills, experimenting with new flavors and techniques. But the pecan caramel thumbprint cookies remained a constant favorite, a reminder of the power of tradition and the joy of sharing recipes with loved ones.

Now, as I pass on the recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will find as much joy in baking these cookies as I have. May they bring you comfort, happiness, and a taste of the past. And may you always remember the moment when you discovered the magic of pecan caramel thumbprint cookies with powdered sugar.