Description
Classic Thumbprint Cookies are buttery, tender cookies with a delightful jam-filled center. These easy-to-make cookies combine a rich, creamy dough rolled in sugar with a sweet dollop of apricot or seedless raspberry jam, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for holiday treats or anytime snacking, they offer a wonderful balance of texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
For Filling and Coating
- ¼ cup jam (apricot and seedless raspberry recommended)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- Beat the Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer bowl fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the unsalted butter and ⅔ cup granulated sugar on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and creamy.
- Add Flavorings and Salt: Mix in the vanilla or almond extract and kosher salt until fully combined.
- Incorporate Flour: Scrape down the sides of the bowl, reduce the mixer speed to low, and gradually add the all-purpose flour. Mix until a dough forms, finishing by hand if necessary to bring the dough together.
- Chill the Dough: Roll the dough into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up and develop flavor.
- Prepare to Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Form and Coat Cookies: Place the ⅓ cup granulated sugar in a shallow bowl. Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough at a time, roll it into a ball, then coat each ball thoroughly in the sugar before placing them spaced on the baking sheet.
- Create Thumbprint and Fill: Press the thumb into the center of each dough ball to create an indentation. Fill each indentation with about ½ teaspoon of your choice of jam.
- Bake and Cool: Bake the cookies for 14-15 minutes until the edges begin to turn golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 1 minute before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading and to help the cookies retain their shape.
- You can substitute jam flavors based on preference, but seedless varieties work best for filling.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure even baking and easy removal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
