Turtle Thumbprint Macaroons Recipe
Introduction
Turtle Thumbprint Macaroons are a delightful twist on the classic coconut cookie, combining chewy coconut, rich caramel, and crunchy pecans. This easy-to-make treat brings all the flavors of a turtle candy into a fun, bite-sized dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 package coconut macaroon cookie dough (such as Immaculate Baking brand) or 1 batch homemade dough
- 12 Rolo candies
- 12 whole pecans
- Caramel sauce, for drizzling
Instructions
- Step 1: Bake the macaroons according to the package or homemade recipe instructions, but remove them from the oven 1-2 minutes before the recommended bake time is complete.
- Step 2: Place one Rolo candy and one whole pecan on top of each cookie, pressing down gently to secure.
- Step 3: Return the cookies to the oven and bake for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the Rolos to soften slightly.
- Step 4: Remove the cookies from the oven and press the pecans in more firmly. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 5: Once cooled, drizzle a small amount of caramel sauce over each cookie for an extra touch of sweetness and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Use homemade macaroon dough for a fresher taste and to adjust sweetness to your preference.
- Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- For a chocolate lover’s twist, drizzle melted dark chocolate instead of caramel sauce.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to one week. Reheat slightly in the oven or microwave to soften the Rolos before serving, if desired.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different caramel candies instead of Rolos?
Yes, other soft caramel candies can be used as a substitute, but Rolos work best because they have a built-in chocolate shell that melts nicely without becoming too messy.
What if I don’t have caramel sauce for drizzling?
If you don’t have caramel sauce, you can skip the drizzle or substitute with honey or a simple chocolate drizzle to add extra flavor.
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Turtle Thumbprint Macaroons Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
Description
Turtle Thumbprint Macaroons combine chewy coconut macaroons with melty Rolo candies, crunchy pecans, and a sweet caramel drizzle for an irresistible treat that’s perfect for dessert or snacking.
Ingredients
Macaroons
- 1 package coconut macaroon cookie dough (Immaculate Baking brand or homemade dough)
Toppings
- 12 Rolo candies
- 12 whole pecans
- Caramel sauce, for drizzling
Instructions
- Bake the macaroons: Preheat your oven and bake the coconut macaroon cookie dough according to the package or your homemade recipe instructions, but remove them from the oven 1-2 minutes before the recommended baking time ends to ensure softness.
- Add candies and nuts: Immediately top each slightly underbaked cookie with one Rolo candy and one whole pecan, pressing down gently so they nestle into the cookie.
- Finish baking: Return the cookies to the oven and bake for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the Rolo to soften and the pecan to set in place.
- Settle toppings: Remove the cookies from the oven and press the pecans further into each cookie to secure them. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Drizzle caramel: Once cooled, drizzle each cookie with a small amount of caramel sauce for extra sweetness and decoration.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature dough if using pre-made macaroons to ensure even baking.
- Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Caramel sauce can be store-bought or homemade according to your preference.
- Ensure cookies cool completely before adding caramel to prevent it from melting off.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: turtle macaroons, coconut macaroons, turtle cookies, caramel macaroons, pecan cookies, Rolo macaroons
