• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Cast Iron Keto
  • Home
  • Work With Us
  • Contact
  • Web Stories
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipes
  • Cookbook
  • About us
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    Home » Recipes » Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies 🍪

    Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies 🍪

    Published: Oct 20, 2022 · Updated: Aug 23, 2023 by Cast Iron Keto · Leave a Comment

    Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

    Our Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies are keto-friendly cookies, perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. These tender almond flour cookies feature a heavenly caramel surprise in the center and a touch of flaky sea salt. These guilt-free treats will satisfy your cravings and leave you craving more. Let's make these delicious baked cookies!

    a hand picking up a single cookie
    Jump to:
    • Preparation and cooking overview
    • Chef's note
    • 🍪 Ingredients for this salted caramel thumbprint cookies recipe
    • Ingredient substitutions
    • Additional ingredients
    • Cooking tools required
    • Tools substitute options
    • How to make Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies: step-by-step guide
    • Cooking methods
    • Preparation steps
    • Cooking instructions
    • What to serve with salted caramel thumbprint cookies?
    • How to make it healthier?
    • Time-saving tips
    • What can I prepare ahead of time?
    • Storage and reheating instructions
    • Recipe wrap-up and conclusion
    • Frequently asked questions
    • 📖 Recipe

    Preparation and cooking overview

    To prepare this Keto Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe, make the sugar-free caramel sauce and allow it to cool. Meanwhile, mix the cookie dough, roll it into balls, make a hole in the center, add your filling, and bake. Within an hour, you will enjoy the caramel flavor in these sweet bites!

    Chef's note

    To ensure the best texture and taste for your Keto Thumbprint Cookies, refrigerate the dough for a quick chill before baking. This step helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents excessive spreading during baking. Also, don't forget to have fun with the indentation in the center! Add a keto jam, sugar-free chocolate chips, or even a pinch of pumpkin spice, and see the magic!

    • Prep Time: 30 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
    • Chilling Time: 20 minutes
    • Total Time: 50 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 18 Servings

    🍪 Ingredients for this salted caramel thumbprint cookies recipe

    Here are the ingredients for these classic cookies!

    • 1 batch of our sugar-free caramel sauce
    • 2 cups Bob's Red Mill Super-Fine Almond Flour
    • ⅓ cup unsalted butter softened plant-based for dairy-free
    • ⅓ cup sugar-free maple syrup
    • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
    • ½ teaspoon sea salt
    • Flaky sea salt for topping

    Ingredient substitutions

    • Almond flour: We have used Bob's Red Mill Super-Fine Almond Flour; you can substitute almond flour with other brands or use pecan or hazelnut flour.
    • Unsalted butter: You can substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
    • Sugar-free maple syrup: Use monk fruit, stevia, or sugar-free caramel syrup.
    ingredients in bowls

    Additional ingredients

    Add these optional ingredients to this recipe to enhance the flavor profile:

    • Sugar-free chocolate chips Add a touch of chocolatey goodness to your cookies by adding sugar-free chocolate chips.
    • Chopped pecans or walnuts:  Add some chopped pecans or walnuts to the cookie dough for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
    • Unsweetened shredded coconut: Sprinkle some unsweetened shredded coconut over the caramel filling or mix it into the cookie dough.
    • Cinnamon or pumpkin spice: Enhance the flavor profile of these sugar-free thumbprint cookies by adding a dash of cinnamon or pumpkin spice.
    • Keto filling options: Take your keto caramel cookies to the next level by adding some heavy cream cheese filling to the center along with the caramel. You can also use keto-friendly jam for a sweet filling.
    • Whipped cream: Serve your cookies with a dollop of stevia-sweetened heavy whipping cream on top for an extra indulgent treat.

    Cooking tools required

    To make this Keto Thumbprint Cookies recipe, you will need the following cooking tools:

    • Large mixing bowl
    • Plate
    • Whisk
    • Cast-iron baking sheet
    • Spoon or spatula
    • Measuring cups and spoons

    Tools substitute options

    • Cast-iron baking sheet: If you don't have a cast-iron baking sheet, use a regular baking sheet, an oven-safe dish, or a tray lined with parchment paper. Just make sure it can withstand the baking temperature.

    How to make Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies: step-by-step guide

    Cooking methods

    • Baking

    Preparation steps

    1. Make sure you have all the ingredients before starting the cooking process.
    2. Carefully measure the quantities using measuring cups and spoons.
    3. Gather all the necessary cooking tools.
    4. Ensure that the bowl and baking sheet are clean.
    5. Turn on the oven to preheat it to the appropriate temperature while you prepare the batter.

    Cooking instructions

    For the delicious caramel filling

    1. Follow our Sugar-Free Caramel Sauce and pay attention to step # 3 in the cooking instructions. For a thick consistency, you must cook until the caramel mixture reaches a darker amber color and starts pulling away from the sides of the pot when stirred. The tip is a thick coat that sticks to the back of a spoon.

    For the cookies

    1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
    2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the butter cookie dough and mix until smooth and well combined.
    3. Roll the dough into 18 evenly-sized balls and place them on a plate. Refrigerate the dough balls for 20 minutes to allow them to firm up.
    4. Line a cast-iron baking sheet or a regular baking sheet with parchment paper.
    5. Take the chilled dough balls out of the refrigerator and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) apart. Use your thumb or the end of a wooden spoon/spatula to make an indent in the center of the cookie.
    6. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes or until they start turning golden brown around the edges. The cookies should still be fairly pale in the center.
    7. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the sheet. If the centers of the cookies have puffed up during baking, gently use your thumb or the end of a spoon to reshape the indentation in the center.
    8. Once the cookies have slightly cooled, place a teaspoon of sugar-free caramel sauce into the center.
    9. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel-filled centers to add a delightful salty-sweet contrast.
    10. Allow the cookies to cool completely before enjoying them!
    bubbling caramel in a pot
    cookie dough in mixing bowl
    cookie dough rolled into balls
    cookies on baking sheet prior to baking
    thumbprint cookies after baking before being filled
    spooning caramel into the center of the thumbprint cookies
    Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies on white parchment paper
    bubbling caramel in a pot
    cookie dough in mixing bowl
    cookie dough rolled into balls
    cookies on baking sheet prior to baking
    thumbprint cookies after baking before being filled
    spooning caramel into the center of the thumbprint cookies
    Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies on white parchment paper

    Chef's pro tip

    To achieve the perfect texture for your caramel biscuits, avoid overbaking them. Remove the cookies from the oven when they turn golden, even if they still appear pale. As they cool, they will firm up, resulting in a soft and chewy texture that's absolutely delightful. Remember, it's better to underbake them than to risk drying them out. Trust your instincts and savor these delightful keto treats!

    thumbprint cookies on white parchment

    What to serve with salted caramel thumbprint cookies?

    Here are some keto-friendly food pairings that you will enjoy with these cookies.

    • A cup of hot black coffee or unsweetened tea
    • Sugar-free vanilla or caramel-flavored almond milk
    • A scoop of low-carb vanilla ice cream
    • Fresh strawberries or raspberries
    • Whipped cream made with keto-friendly sweetener
    • A glass of unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk
    • Keto-friendly hot chocolate

    How to make it healthier?

    • While the recipe calls for sea salt, reduce the overall sodium content of the recipe.
    • For a dairy-free option, choose plant-based butter alternatives free from trans fats and hydrogenated oils. Substitute the unsalted butter with softened plant-based alternatives like coconut oil or vegan butter.
    • Add ground flaxseed or chia seeds into the dough to boost the nutritional profile of the recipe.

    Time-saving tips

    • Utilize a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly combine the ingredients, resulting in a smooth dough in less time.
    • Expedite chilling: Place the dough balls in the fridge while the oven preheats, shortening the chilling time.
    • Use a cookie scoop: Use a cookie scoop to roll the dough into balls, eliminating the need for individual shaping.
    • Prepare multiple batches: If oven space allows, double or triple the recipe to make multiple batches at once, maximizing efficiency and yielding more cookies.
    Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies on white parchment paper with a bag of Bob's Red Mill Almond Flour to the side

    What can I prepare ahead of time?

    • Pre-measure the dry ingredients: Measure the dry mixture and store it in a bowl or airtight container. Use it later when you start baking.
    • Make the caramel sauce: Prepare the sugar-free caramel sauce a day or two ahead. This allows the sauce to cool and thicken in the refrigerator, ensuring it's ready to be used later.

    Storage and reheating instructions

    Storage tips

    Store the leftovers in an airtight container or zip-lock plastic wrap for optimal freshness and flavor to prevent drying out or absorbing odors. Refrigerate for 5-7 days. If freezing, store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for 1 month. Remember that freezing may slightly affect the texture, but they should still be enjoyable after thawing.

    Reheating best practices

    • Oven: To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and warm them for 5-7 minutes. Remember to thaw the cookies if they are frozen.
    • Microwave: Alternatively, microwave on a microwave-safe plate on high for 10-15 seconds. Allow the cookies to cool slightly before enjoying them.

    Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

    Whether following a low-carb lifestyle or craving delicious cookies, this Keto Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookie Recipe is a must-try! They are keto-friendly and low-carb, making them a perfect dessert treat after any meal. These caramel-filled salty butter cookies are simple and a delicious sweet treat!

    So, what are you waiting for? Bake them now, and don't forget to click a picture and share it with us on our Instagram and Facebook pages!

    Loved this recipe? Here are some more keto cookie recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth:

    • Keto Biscuits
    • No Bake Peanut Butter Cookies
    • Keto Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
    • Toll House Cookie Recipe
    • Keto Confetti Skillet Cookie
    • Keto Chocolate Macaroons
    • Keto Red Velvet Skillet Cookie

    Frequently asked questions

    They are called thumbprint cookies because you press your thumb on the center of the cookie, forming a little cave to which you can add the caramel sauce.

    It can happen due to overheating. If your oven is too hot, it causes the butter and other ingredients in the cookies to melt quickly. This makes the entire shape dough flat. To avoid this, you must adjust the oven's temperature and ensure it isn't too hot. Also, make sure you measure the ingredients precisely to avoid any mishaps.

    To prevent your cookies from cracking, roll the dough smoothly. If you see any cracks in the rolled dough, use your fingers and thumb to press those cracks and remove them.

    Yes, you can freeze them after baking. However, allow the cookies to cool down for a few hours. You can use an airtight container and place parchment papers between the cookie layers. This way, you can store them for up to 1 month in the freezer.

    📖 Recipe

    Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies on white parchment paper

    Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies

    These easy Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies are the perfect little sugar-free treat! Made with almond flour, they're also grain-free, egg-free and low-carb!
    5 from 2 votes
    Print Rate Pin Recipe
    Course: Dessert
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: caramel cookies, keto cookie, thumbprint cookies
    Prep Time: 30 minutes minutes
    Chilling Time: 20 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 50 minutes minutes
    Servings: 18
    Calories: 165kcal

    Ingredients

    • 1 batch of our sugar-free caramel sauce
    • 2 cups Bob's Red Mill Super-Fine Almond Flour
    • ⅓ cup unsalted butter softened plant-based for dairy-free
    • ⅓ cup sugar-free maple syrup
    • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
    • ½ teaspoon sea salt
    • Flaky sea salt for topping
    US Customary - Metric

    Instructions

    For the delicious caramel filling

    • Follow our Sugar-Free Caramel Sauce and pay attention to step # 3 in the cooking instructions. For a thick consistency, you must cook until the caramel mixture reaches a darker amber color and starts pulling away from the sides of the pot when stirred. The tip is a thick coat that sticks to the back of a spoon.

    For the cookies

    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the butter cookie dough and mix until smooth and well combined.
    • Roll the dough into 18 evenly-sized balls and place them on a plate. Refrigerate the dough balls for 20 minutes to allow them to firm up.
    • Line a cast-iron baking sheet or a regular baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • Take the chilled dough balls out of the refrigerator and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) apart. Use your thumb or the end of a wooden spoon/spatula to make an indent in the center of cookie.
    • Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes or until they start turning golden brown around the edges. The cookies should still be fairly pale in the center.
    • Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the sheet. If the centers of the cookies have puffed up during baking, gently use your thumb or the end of a spoon to reshape the indentation in the center.
    • Once the cookies have slightly cooled, place a teaspoon of sugar-free caramel sauce into the center.
    • Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel-filled centers to add a delightful salty-sweet contrast.
    • Allow the cookies to cool completely before enjoying them!

    Video

    Nutrition

    Nutrition Facts
    Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies
    Amount Per Serving
    Calories 165 Calories from Fat 144
    % Daily Value*
    Fat 16g25%
    Saturated Fat 5g31%
    Trans Fat 0.1g
    Polyunsaturated Fat 0.1g
    Monounsaturated Fat 1g
    Cholesterol 9mg3%
    Sodium 145mg6%
    Potassium 17mg0%
    Carbohydrates 5g2%
    Fiber 1g4%
    Sugar 2g2%
    Protein 3g6%
    Vitamin A 105IU2%
    Vitamin C 0.4mg0%
    Calcium 29mg3%
    Iron 1mg6%
    *

    Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

    # Hashtag with us!Don't forget to mention @castiron_keto or tag #castironketo on Instagram with your creations! We love seeing what you're making.
    « Easy Mashed Cauliflower Recipe 🍛
    Can You Drink Wine on Keto? 🍷 »

    Reader Interactions

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    cast iron keto logo

    Cast Iron Keto publishes tasty low-carb gluten-free recipes all made in cast-iron cookware. We hope you find something you love!

    More about us →

    Trending Recipes

    • keto stuffed peppers in a cast iron skillet
      Keto Stuffed Peppers (Classic Recipe) 🫑
    • Keto Burger on a upside down sheet pan with tomatoes in the background
      Keto Burger - In-N-Out Style 🍔
    • Keto Cheesy Cabbage Sausage Skillet on tabletop
      Keto Cheesy Cabbage Sausage Skillet 🥘
    • Keto Sloppy Joe mixture in a cast iron skillet with a serving spoon
      Keto Sloppy Joes (Skillet Style) 🥘
    • Keto Butter Chicken in a cast iron skillet with cauliflower rice
      Keto Butter Chicken (Easy 30 Minutes Recipe) 🥘
    • Keto Pork Tenderloin in cast iron skillet
      Keto Pork Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter 🥩

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Privacy Policy
    • Accessibility Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • Contact
    • Work with us

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2023 Cast Iron Keto