Decadent Turtle Thumbprint Cookies
Indulge in these scrumptious Decadent Turtle Thumbprint Cookies, where buttery cookie dough meets rich caramel, crunchy pecans, and velvety chocolate. Perfect for any gathering or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies bring the beloved flavors of turtle candies into a delightful bite-sized treat. Share them with friends and family, or keep them all to yourself—you won’t be able to resist going back for more!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
2/3 cup (softened)
sugar
1/2 cup (granulated)
egg yolks
2 (large)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (pure)
flour
1 1/2 cups (all-purpose)
caramels
20 (unwrapped)
pecan halves
48 (for topping)
shortening
1 tablespoon (for melting with chocolate)
semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup (for drizzling)
heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons (for caramel mixture)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture at medium speed until it becomes light and creamy, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed.
2
Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Once mixed, cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour until firm.
3
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once chilled, shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 1 inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 7-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
4
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramels and heavy whipping cream. Heat in the microwave, stirring every minute, until the mixture is melted and smooth.
5
Using a teaspoon, spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of the caramel mixture into the center of each cooled cookie. Top each with a pecan half, pressing gently to adhere.
6
In a separate small microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
7
Drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel-filled cookies using a fork or piping bag. Allow the cookies to set at room temperature for about 2 hours before serving.
8
Once set, enjoy your delicious turtle-themed treats!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Turtle Thumbprint Cookies?
They are a rich treat where buttery cookie dough is combined with caramel, pecans, and melted chocolate to mimic the flavors of turtle candies.
What ingredients are needed for the cookie base?
The dough requires softened butter, sugar, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and all-purpose flour.
How long should I chill the dough?
The dough should be covered and refrigerated for about 1 hour until it is firm.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C).
How long do the cookies bake?
Bake the cookies for 7 to 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
How do I prepare the caramel filling?
Combine 20 unwrapped caramels with 2 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream and microwave until melted and smooth.
How do I make the chocolate drizzle?
Microwave 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of shortening in 30-second intervals until smooth.
What kind of nuts are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 48 pecan halves to top the caramel center.
Do I need to grease the cookie sheet?
No, the dough balls should be placed on an ungreased cookie sheet.
How large should the dough balls be?
The dough should be shaped into 1-inch balls before baking.
How much caramel goes into each cookie?
Spoon approximately 1/2 teaspoon of the melted caramel mixture into the center of each cooled cookie.
Why is shortening added to the chocolate?
Shortening helps the chocolate melt more smoothly and provides a better consistency for drizzling.
Can I use whole eggs instead of yolks?
This recipe specifically calls for 2 large egg yolks to achieve a rich, tender cookie texture.
How long do the cookies need to set?
Allow the cookies to set at room temperature for about 2 hours before serving.
Should I add the caramel while the cookies are hot?
No, let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before adding the caramel mixture.
How do I know when the cookies are finished baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden.
What is the purpose of the heavy whipping cream?
It is mixed with the caramels to create a smooth, creamy consistency that doesn't get too hard.
Can I use a piping bag for the chocolate?
Yes, you can use a piping bag or a fork to drizzle the melted chocolate over the cookies.
How should I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature once they have fully set.
Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
While pecans are traditional for turtle flavors, you could use walnuts or almonds if preferred.
What type of vanilla should I use?
Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best flavor in the cookie dough.
How many cookies does this recipe make?
Based on the ingredient list of 48 pecan halves, the recipe makes approximately 48 cookies.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, milk chocolate chips can be used as a substitute if you prefer a sweeter drizzle.
What if my caramel is too thick?
You can add a tiny bit more heavy cream and reheat it briefly to reach the desired consistency.
Is it necessary to use a mixer?
A mixer is recommended to beat the butter and sugar until light and creamy.
Do these cookies freeze well?
Yes, they can be frozen, though it is best to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Can I use granulated sugar?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1/2 cup of granulated sugar for the dough.
What type of flour is used?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour.
How far apart should I place the dough balls?
Place the dough balls about 1 inch apart on the cookie sheet.
Are these cookies good for holiday gatherings?
Absolutely, their decadent flavor and attractive drizzle make them a favorite for parties and gifts.