Thumbprint Cookies: A Classic Holiday Treat

Thumbprint cookies are a beloved holiday tradition, and this Thumbprint Cookie Recipe will guide you in creating perfect melt-in-your-mouth cookies filled with your favorite jams. These delightful treats are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a perfect baking activity for the whole family.

A plate of golden-brown Thumbprint Cookies filled with a variety of colorful jams.

Baking Your Thumbprint Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s gather our ingredients and equipment. Then we’ll dive into the baking process!

Step 1 : Creating the Cookie Dough

First, we’ll start by making a simple, buttery dough for our Thumbprint Cookies.

Ingredients for Thumbprint Cookies laid out on a counter: butter, sugar, egg yolks, vanilla extract, flour, and salt.

Directions:

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1/2 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla: Next, mix in 2 large egg yolks and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Tip: Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 2 : Shaping and Filling the Cookies

Now, let’s shape our cookies and create those signature thumbprints.

Hands rolling the dough into small balls.

Directions:

Roll Dough into Balls: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
Make Indentations: Place the dough balls 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Then, use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each ball.
Fill with Jam: Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of your favorite jam or preserves.
- Tip: For a variety of flavors and colors, use different types of jam, such as raspberry, apricot, or strawberry.

Step 3 : Baking to Perfection

Finally, it’s time to bake our Thumbprint Cookies !

Directions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Tip: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they bake, as they can brown quickly.

Enjoying Your Thumbprint Cookies

These Thumbprint Cookies are perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to holiday celebrations. They’re especially delightful when shared with loved ones.

Ready to try this Thumbprint Cookie Recipe ? For more delicious cookie recipes, check out this collection from Love and Lemons . And for a refreshing drink to pair with your cookies, try this Wassail .

Frequently Asked Questions about Thumbprint Cookies

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze both the unbaked dough and the baked cookies. For the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. For baked cookies, store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.

What other fillings can I use?

Besides jam, you can fill these cookies with various other fillings, such as chocolate, caramel, or even a dollop of frosting.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

If your cookies are spreading too much, it could be because the butter was too soft or the dough was too warm. Make sure to use softened butter, not melted butter, and chill the dough if necessary.

Thumbprint Cookies: A Timeless Treat

These Thumbprint Cookies are a classic for a reason. They’re easy to make, delicious, and perfect for sharing. We hope you enjoy this recipe!

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