Looking for a delightful cookie recipe that always impresses? Try these Ultimate Best Thumbprint Cookies that are delicate, delicious, and simply irresistible. This recipe guarantees soft, buttery cookies with a hint of sweetness and a touch of jam, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Best Thumbprint Cookies
– Classic Elegance: Reminiscent of pecan sandies, these cookies offer a festive and tasty experience.
– Buttery Goodness: Not overly sweet, slightly crisp, and perfectly flavored with vanilla extract.
– Customizable Fillings: Use your favorite jam, preserves, or spreads to personalize these cookies.
– Fun to Make: Get the whole family involved in rolling the dough and creating thumbprint impressions.
Ingredient Notes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookies.
– 1/8 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor profile.
– 1 stick butter, room temperature: Adds richness and moisture.
– 1/3 cup sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a subtle vanilla flavor.
– 1 egg yolk: Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
– 3/4 cup chopped walnuts: Optional for a nutty crunch.
– 1/2 cup jam, preserves, spreads of your choosing: Provides the delightful filling.
How to Make Ultimate Best Thumbprint Cookies
– Step 1: Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Mix flour and salt in a bowl.
– Step 2: Cream Butter: In a separate mixer, cream room-temperature butter until light and fluffy.
– Step 3: Add Sugar and Flavors: Incorporate sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, blending until well combined.
– Step 4: Combine with Flour: Gradually add the flour mixture, followed by nuts if desired, forming a dough ball.
– Step 5: Shape and Indent: Roll small portions of dough into balls and place on a baking sheet. Create an indentation in each ball.
– Step 6: Bake and Fill: Bake for 10 minutes, then re-indent the cookies and add filling. Bake for another 10 minutes until golden.
Storage Options
For storage, keep these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer shelf life.
Variations and Substitutions
– Nut-Free Option: Skip the walnuts for a nut-free version.
– Fruit Filling: Experiment with different types of jams, preserves, or fruit spreads.
– Chocolate Twist: Swap the jam for a chocolate ganache or hazelnut spread.
– Glazed Finish: Add a glaze on top of the cookies for extra sweetness.
What to Serve With Ultimate Best Thumbprint Cookies
These cookies pair well with a cup of hot tea or coffee. Consider serving them alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can I use other nuts in this recipe?: Yes, feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts.
– Can I make these cookies ahead of time?: Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and bake the cookies when needed.
– Can I use different flavors of jam?: Absolutely, mix and match different fruit flavors or try specialty jams for a unique touch.
– How can I ensure the cookies stay fresh?: Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
By following this recipe, you’ll create delicate, buttery cookies with a perfect balance of sweetness and a delightful jam center. These cookies are sure to vanish quickly, pleasing both kids and adults with their irresistible taste and charming appearance.
Ultimate Best Thumbprint Cookies
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 stick butter, room temperature
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
- 3/4 cup chopped walnuts Optional
Jam Filling
- 1/2 cup jam, preserves, spreads of your choosing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Mix flour and salt in a bowl.
- In a separate mixer, cream room-temperature butter until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, blending until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture, followed by nuts if desired, forming a dough ball.
- Roll small portions of dough into balls and place on a baking sheet. Create an indentation in each ball.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then re-indent the cookies and add filling. Bake for another 10 minutes until golden.