Description
Indulge in the decadence of Rich Nutty Caramel Treats! These irresistible cookies combine a buttery cocoa-infused base, crunchy toasted hazelnuts, gooey caramel, and a drizzle of silky chocolate ganache. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or when you just need a sweet pick-me-up, these treats are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Base:
- All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups
- Cocoa powder: ¼ cup
- Baking powder: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Butter: ½ cup, softened at room temperature
- Sugar: ¾ cup
- Egg: 1 large
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
For the Toppings:
- Chopped toasted hazelnuts: ½ cup
- Caramel sauce: ½ cup
- Chocolate ganache: ½ cup (made with equal parts heavy cream and dark chocolate)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. - Cream Butter and Sugar:
In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy using a hand or stand mixer. - Add Wet Ingredients:
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well incorporated. - Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. - Shape and Coat:
Roll the dough into tablespoon-sized balls. Coat each ball with chopped toasted hazelnuts. Place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each. - Create Indents:
Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to press a small indent into the center of each dough ball. - Bake:
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. The centers should remain slightly soft. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. - Add Caramel Filling:
Once the cookies are completely cool, fill each indent with a spoonful of caramel sauce. - Drizzle with Chocolate:
Drizzle the cookies with chocolate ganache for a luxurious finish.
Notes
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Let it come to room temperature before baking.
- Substitutions: Swap hazelnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American