Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes for garnish (optional)
Feel free to substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor. For those who love a bit of spice, a sprinkle of cinnamon in the dough could add an extra layer of warmth.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step reminds me of those afternoons spent in the kitchen with my abuela, where patience was the key to perfect texture.
- Add the vanilla extract and salt, mixing until just combined.
- Gradually incorporate the flour until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Roll the dough into small balls, about the size of a walnut, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, create a small indentation in the center of each dough ball.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. My grandmother always said to trust your nose as much as your timer — the aroma of baking is a wonderful guide.
- Allow the bites to cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, fill each indentation with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans and a pinch of sea salt flakes over the caramel for added texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International