This Thumbprint Cookies Recipe brings you a delightful combination of buttery cookies filled with your favorite jams or preserves. These classic cookies are not only easy to make but also perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to everyday treats. Follow this recipe to create these irresistible Thumbprint Cookies that will surely impress your friends and family!
Ingredients for Thumbprint Cookies
For the Cookies:
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
For Filling:
- Your favorite jams or preserves (e.g., strawberry, raspberry, apricot): as needed
Optional:
- Powdered sugar: for dusting (optional)
How to Make Thumbprint Cookies
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment.
3. Add Vanilla and Salt
Add vanilla extract and salt to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until well combined.
4. Incorporate Flour
Gradually add all-purpose flour to the mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together and forms a soft dough.
5. Form Cookie Dough Balls
Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
6. Make Thumbprints
Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to gently press down in the center of each cookie dough ball, creating a small indentation.
7. Fill Thumbprints
Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of your favorite jam or preserves. Be careful not to overfill.
8. Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and lightly golden around the edges.
9. Cool and Optional Dusting
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
10. Serve and Enjoy
Once cooled, serve these delicious Thumbprint Cookies as a delightful treat with tea or coffee, or as part of your dessert spread.
About the Main Ingredients
Unsalted Butter
Butter adds richness and flavor to the cookies, creating a tender and buttery texture that melts in your mouth.
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour provides structure to the cookies, helping them hold their shape while baking.
Jam or Preserves
The filling options like strawberry, raspberry, or apricot jam add a burst of fruity flavor to the cookies, contrasting with the buttery cookie base.
These Thumbprint Cookies are a classic favorite that is both fun to make and delightful to eat. Enjoy these versatile treats for any occasion, and watch them disappear quickly from the cookie jar!
