Caramel Apple Spice Thumbprint Cookies with Homemade Caramel

Caramel Apple Spice Thumbprint Cookies My Autumn Baking

By Chef BakerAugust 13, 2025

Table of Contents

Fancy a bit of autumn in every bite? These Caramel Apple Spice Thumbprint Cookies are calling your name! Honestly, they're my new obsession.

Think warm spices, sweet apples, and gooey caramel all snuggled up in a cookie. What's not to love?

A Taste of Tradition

These apple pie spice cookies are my take on a classic. Thumbprint cookies have been around for ages. They originated in Sweden! But these autumn thumbprint cookies are a proper American twist on the old school recipe.

They're like if an apple pie and a snickerdoodle had a baby.

These cookies are easy ish to make, they are definitely considered one of the fall baking recipes . The hands-on time is only about 30 minutes.

But chilling the dough takes 2- 4 hours. This recipe makes about 2 dozen cookies. Perfect for sharing… or not!

Why You'll Love These Caramel Apple Spice Thumbprint Cookies

These aren't just any cookies. They are one of the greatest spice cookies for fall . They are packed with apple cinnamon cookies flavor.

The apple spice cookie recipe are rich in flavor. The homemade caramel takes them to the next level. And honestly, the smell while they bake is heavenly.

They make amazing homemade cookie gifts . I bet anyone would be chuffed to bits to receive a tin of these.

The easy caramel recipe is simple but adds the most. Plus, the apple pie spice gives them a healthy dose of antioxidants.

It's practically a health food... right? These thumbprint cookie variations are sure to impress at your next fall gathering.

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need. To nail these Caramel Apple Spice Thumbprint Cookies , having the right stuff is half the battle.

Trust me, I've learned this the hard way, especially with fall baking recipes .

Ingredients: Let's Get Down to Brass Tacks

We're diving headfirst into this apple pie spice cookies adventure.

Main Ingredients

All-purpose flour: 2 and 1/2 cups (313g) . Use good flour. If you have a local mill, support them!
Apple pie spice: 1 and 1/2 teaspoons (for the dough) + 1/2 teaspoon (for the topping). Make sure it smells good and fresh.
Baking powder: 1 teaspoon . This helps them get fluffy.
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon . It balances the sweetness.
Unsalted butter: 1 cup (226g) , softened. This is CRUCIAL. Room temperature is the key.
Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup (150g) (for dough) + 1/3 cup (67g) (for topping). Use regular granulated sugar.
Large egg: 1 , at room temperature. Again, room temperature!
Vanilla extract: 1 and 1/2 teaspoons . Pure vanilla is best.
Homemade Caramel: Amount needed to fill each cookie. We will discuss this later.

Seasoning Notes

For that apple pie spice , if you don't have it, mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. You know, a spice cookies for fall blend.

Vanilla extract is essential! Don't skimp. Seriously, it makes a difference. As for flavour enhancers and aromatics, a tiny pinch of cardamom can work wonders.

You want a kick in your autumn thumbprint cookies !

Equipment Needed

You don't need fancy stuff. Just the basics.

Mixing bowls. Different sizes are super handy.
Whisk. For combining dry ingredients.
Electric mixer. Handheld is fine. Stand mixer is even better.
Baking sheets. You'll need at least two.
Parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Makes cleanup a breeze.
Rubber spatula. For scraping down the sides of the bowl.
Measuring cups and spoons. Accurate measuring is important.
Cooling rack. To cool your cookies.

No fancy stand mixer? No problem! Muscle your way in, if it comes to it. Baking is not an exact science! The most important tool you will need is ensoiasm for this easy caramel recipe and the will to produce some homemade cookie gifts .

You'll be amazed at how delicious these caramel apple spice thumbprint cookies turn out. It is one of my favourite thumbprint cookie variations .

Honestly, I made these last year for a bake sale. They were gone in minutes.

The Art of Caramel Apple Spice Thumbprint Cookies

Alright, let's talk about the magic of baking. Seriously. Today, it's all about Caramel apple spice thumbprint cookies . These aren't just any cookies.

They're little bites of autumn bliss. They’re proper little homemade cookie gifts . Think cosy nights in front of the telly.

Prep Like a Pro

First things first, mise en place , darling! Get everything measured out. Honestly, it saves so much time. Imagine finding out halfway through that you're missing baking powder.

Nightmare fuel, right? Soften that butter. Room temp is key! Safety first. Don't be pulling out the electric mixer with wet hands.

That's just asking for trouble.

Let's Get Baking: step-by-step

Ready to bake some apple pie spice cookies ? Follow me.

Mix your sugar and apple pie spice. Set it aside for coating.
Whisk together flour, apple pie spice, baking powder, and salt. Sorted!
Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
Beat in egg and vanilla. Go on, give it some welly!
Combine wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Don't overmix!
Roll dough into balls, coat with the sugar spice mix, and place on a sheet.
Make a thumbprint in each. Time for some repair work? Smooth the cracks.
Chill those bad boys for at least 2 hours . Or even overnight!

Right, oven time. Preheat to 350° F ( 180° C) . Bake for 12 minutes . Spoon in caramel. Then bake for another 1- 2 minutes .

Cool completely on a wire rack. Job done!

Pro Tips & Tricks for Perfect Apple Cinnamon Cookies

Okay, a few secrets. Chilling the dough is essential . Trust me! It stops them spreading everywhere. Room temperature ingredients are another biggie.

Don't overbake! Nobody likes a dry cookie. You can totally make the dough ahead of time. Wrapped tightly, it keeps in the fridge for a few days.

Or freeze it for a few weeks.

These Caramel apple spice thumbprint cookies are more than just a recipe. They're a hug in a cookie. Perfect with a cup of tea or spiced apple cider .

Enjoy! You may even want to try some thumbprint cookie variations next time.

Alright, let's talk Caramel apple spice thumbprint cookies ! These cookies are total winners. Honestly, they're like autumn in a bite.

They're super tasty and fun to make. I'm so excited to share some extra tips with you.

Recipe Notes to Nailing Those Cookies

Let's make sure you get these apple pie spice cookies perfect!

Serving Suggestions for Autumn Thumbprint Cookies

These caramel filled cookies look amazing plated simply. Dust them lightly with powdered sugar. Serve them with warm apple cider.

Or try a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Presentation is key, you know? They are great homemade cookie gifts , too!

Storage Tips

These spice cookies for fall store well. Keep them in an airtight container. Store them at room temperature for about 3 days.

If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure they're completely cool first.

Reheat them gently in the oven for a minute or two. This will bring back that fresh baked warmth.

Variations on the Thumbprint Cookie Variations

Want to switch things up? Swap apple pie spice for pumpkin pie spice. This gives you a completely different vibe.

For a dietary twist, try a gluten-free flour blend. It's an easy way to make these cookies accessible. Don't forget the chopped nuts for extra crunch.

Nutrition Basics of Apple Spice Cookie Recipe

Okay, let's keep it real. These are cookies. They are not exactly health food. But, they do offer a little comfort, lol.

They have simple carbs for a quick energy boost. Remember to enjoy them in moderation.

I faced my fair share of cookie challenges! I hope these notes helped! I hope you're ready to try this easy caramel recipe .

With these tips, you’ll nail those Caramel apple spice thumbprint cookies . Happy fall baking recipes !

Frequently Asked Questions

My Caramel apple spice thumbprint cookies spread too much when baking. What did I do wrong?

Ah, the dreaded cookie spread! This usually happens when the dough is too warm. Make sure you chill the dough for the recommended time (2-4 hours) this is absolutely crucial. Also, make sure your butter isn't too soft; it should be pliable but still hold its shape.

If all else fails, try chilling the shaped cookies again for 15-20 minutes before baking.

Can I use store-bought caramel filling instead of making my own for these Caramel apple spice thumbprint cookies?

Absolutely! While the homemade caramel adds a certain "je ne sais quoi," store-bought caramel sauce is a perfectly acceptable shortcut, especially if you're short on time or feeling a bit knackered. Just be sure to use a thick caramel sauce, not a runny syrup, so it stays put in the thumbprint.

You might want to give the cookies an extra minute or two in the oven to help the caramel set up a bit.

How long will these caramel apple spice thumbprint cookies stay fresh?

These cookies are best enjoyed within 3-4 days of baking, assuming you can resist them that long! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months.

Just make sure they're completely cooled before freezing, and thaw them at room temperature before serving a great way to get ahead for the holidays, isn't it?

Can I make the dough for Caramel apple spice thumbprint cookies ahead of time?

You bet! In fact, I highly recommend it. The dough can be made 2-3 days in advance and stored, well covered, in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the dough for up to a month. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before shaping and baking. This is a lifesaver when you're juggling a busy schedule!

What if I don't have apple pie spice? Can I make my own for these Caramel apple spice thumbprint cookies?

Of course! Apple pie spice is just a blend of common baking spices. You can easily make your own by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. A good starting point is 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of allspice.

Adjust the amounts to your liking feel free to add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for a bit more depth.