Description
These classic Thumbprint Cookies are buttery, tender, and filled with your favorite fruit preserves for a delightful burst of sweetness in every bite. Perfectly easy to make, these cookies are a timeless treat ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1/2 cup fruit preserves or jam of choice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until completely combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt to evenly distribute the salt.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until a dough forms; avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape Dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch diameter balls and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Create Thumbprints: Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to gently press an indentation in the center of each cookie ball, taking care not to press too hard to avoid breaking the dough.
- Fill with Jam: Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen fruit preserves or jam into each indentation carefully.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- You can substitute fruit preserves with nut butters or chocolate spreads for different flavor variations.
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a colorful twist, use assorted fruit preserves or jams.
- Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before shaping can help prevent spreading during baking.
