Prepare the Cookie Dough

• Preheat the oven to350°F (175°C).
• Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and creamy.
• Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
• Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
• If the dough feels too crumbly, add milk 1 teaspoon at a time until it holds together.

Shape and Bake the Cookies

• Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each.
• Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
• Gently flatten each ball into a thick round disc.
• Use your thumb or the back of a small measuring spoon to create a shallow indentation in the center.
• Bake for10–13 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
• If the centers puff up during baking, gently press them down again while the cookies are still warm.
• Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.

Prepare the Caramel Filling

• Place the unwrapped caramel candies and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until completely melted and smooth.
• Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
• Allow the caramel to cool for 2–3 minutes so it thickens slightly.

Fill the Cookies with Caramel

• Spoon a small amount of warm caramel into the center of each cooled cookie.
• Spread gently to fill the indentation without overflowing.
• Let the caramel set for about 20–30 minutes.

Add the Chocolate Topping

• Place the milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
• Stir in the coconut oil if needed for a smoother consistency.
• Spoon or drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel layer.
• Melt the white chocolate chips separately and drizzle over the milk chocolate.

Decorate for Christmas

• Immediately add red and green Christmas sprinkles while the chocolate is still soft.
• Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature, or refrigerate the cookies for 15–20 minutes until firm.

Serve and Enjoy

• Arrange the cookies on a festive serving platter.
• Serve at room temperature for a soft shortbread base, chewy caramel center, and smooth chocolate topping.