These Ultimate Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that combines a buttery, slightly crisp cookie with your favorite jams or preserves. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion, these cookies are easy to make and can be customized with various fillings. Kids will love helping to make these fun and delicious cookies!
Ingredients
- 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 (reserve egg white for glossing the tops of the cookies, if desired)
- 3/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup jam, preserves, or spreads of your choice
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Blend flour and salt in a bowl and set aside.
- Mix Butter and Sugar: In a separate mixer, whip room-temperature butter until light and fluffy. Add sugar and blend until light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and blend well.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt mixture to the wet ingredients and beat until fully combined. If using, add chopped nuts and mix until the dough forms a ball.
- Form Cookies: Take small teaspoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on a greased or parchment-lined cookie sheet.
- Create Indentations: Press your thumb, finger, or knuckle into each dough ball to create an indentation.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and use the back of a spoon to press the indentations again. Add about 1/2 teaspoon of filling to each cookie.
- Finish Baking: Return the cookies to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Conclusion and Tips
These Ultimate Thumbprint Cookies are a versatile and tasty addition to any dessert table. Experiment with different jams, jellies, or even chocolate spreads to find your favorite combination. These cookies are perfect for making with kids, who will love rolling the dough and adding the fillings.
Have you tried this recipe? Share your tips and favorite fillings in the comments below. What’s your go-to thumbprint cookie flavor?