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These homemade Classic Thumbprint Cookies are an easy recipe that creates sweet and buttery treats with jam-filled centers. Made with simple ingredients and customizable with your favorite preserves, these traditional cookies offer the perfect balance of crisp exterior and tender center. Perfect for holidays, afternoon tea, or any special occasion.
Why You'll Love These Cookies
These thumbprint cookies combine a buttery shortbread-like base with sweet jam centers for an irresistible treat. They're incredibly versatile, allowing you to use any favorite preserves for endless variations. The dough comes together quickly without chilling, making them perfect for last-minute baking. Their charming appearance and delicious taste make them a hit at cookie exchanges or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients for Thumbprint Cookies
- For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For Rolling (Optional):
- 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
- For Filling:
- 1/2 cup jam or preserves (raspberry, strawberry, or apricot)
- Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
- Small spoon for indents
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare for Baking
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Have rolling sugar ready if using.
- Make the Cookie Dough
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add egg yolk and vanilla, mix well. Gradually add flour and salt until dough comes together.
- Shape the Cookies
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Roll in sugar if desired. Place on prepared sheets 2 inches apart. Create indents using thumb or back of spoon.
- Fill and Bake
- Fill each indent with 1/2 teaspoon jam. Bake 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool 5 minutes on sheet, then transfer to wire rack.
Pro Tips for Success
Measure flour accurately using spoon-and-level method. Roll dough balls tightly to prevent cracking. If edges crack when making indents, gently press back together. Warm thick jam slightly for easier filling. Use cool baking sheets for each batch to prevent spreading.
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Serving Suggestions
Present on a decorative platter for gatherings. Experiment with different jam flavors for variety. Serve with afternoon tea or coffee. Perfect for holiday cookie platters or cookie exchanges. Package in decorative boxes for gifting.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store in airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week. Freeze unbaked dough balls without indents up to 2 months. Thaw slightly before creating indents and filling. Layer cookies between parchment paper to prevent sticking. Avoid stacking if jam centers are not completely set.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why chill the dough?
Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents spreading during baking. It also helps prevent the thumbprints from cracking.
- → Can I use any type of jam?
Yes, you can use any flavor of jam or preserves. Just warm it slightly before filling to make it easier to spoon into the indents.
- → Why does the dough seem dry and crumbly?
This is normal for these cookies. The dough should come together when pressed and rolled, resulting in tender, buttery cookies.
- → Why roll without cracks or seams?
Rolling the dough balls until smooth helps prevent the cookies from cracking around the thumbprint during baking.
- → Can I make these ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape the cookies, then freeze them before adding jam. Add jam just before baking.
Conclusion
Thumbprint cookies are a classic holiday treat featuring a tender, buttery base with a delightful jam-filled center. Perfect for festive gatherings or as a sweet everyday indulgence.