Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup caramel bits
- 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Special Equipment Needed:
- 2 baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Fork
- Small spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add in flour, salt, and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheets.
6. Using a fork, make indentations in the center of each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
9. Place a few caramel bits in the center of each cookie and press down lightly.
10. Place a few chocolate chips in the center of each cookie and press down lightly.
11. Let cool completely before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature: 350 degrees Fahrenheit
Serving Size: Makes about 24 cookies
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 140
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 1g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Butter: can be substituted with vegan butter or coconut oil
- Caramel bits: can be substituted with chopped nuts or dried fruit
- Chocolate chips: can be substituted with white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips
Variations:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the cookie dough for a hint of spice.
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the cookie dough for a nutty flavor.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for an extra sweet touch.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming together with the sugar.
- Use a fork to make the indentations in the center of the cookies.
- Let the cookies cool completely before serving.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve on a platter with fresh fruit and a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt or chopped nuts.
Pairings:
Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a fruit salad.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cookies are too soft, bake for a few minutes longer.
- If the cookies are too hard, reduce baking time.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Food History:
Shortbread is a type of biscuit that originated in Scotland in the 12th century. It is traditionally made with butter, sugar, and flour and is often served during the holidays.
Flavor Profiles:
Caramel Shortbread Thumbprints have a sweet and buttery flavor with hints of caramel and chocolate.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an after-dinner treat or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
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Taste: Sweet, Buttery, Caramelized, Nutty