Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp apple pie spice
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp apple butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup caramel sauce
  • pinch flaky sea salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar for 60 seconds until combined and creamy, but not fluffy.
  2. Mix in the apple butter and vanilla extract until just blended.
  3. Slowly stir in the flour, apple pie spice, and salt on low speed until the dough just pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
  4. Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into a smooth ball.
  5. Arrange balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
  6. Press your thumb or the back of a small spoon into the center of each ball to create a 1/2 inch deep well.
  7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are barely golden.
  8. Remove the tray from the oven and fill each indent with a small dollop of caramel sauce.
  9. Return to the oven for 2 more minutes to set the caramel.
  10. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel.