Thumbprint Cookies Recipe!

Oh my goodness, friends, get ready to fall in love with the cutest, most delicious little cookies ever! Thumbprint cookies are like tiny bites of happiness, with their buttery, nutty goodness and a sweet little dollop of jam right in the center. We’re talking melt-in-your-mouth perfection, and they’re so easy to make, you’ll be baking up a storm in no time! Trust me, these are the perfect treat for any occasion, and they’ll disappear faster than you can say “cookie jar!”

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Adorable and Delicious: These cookies are as cute as they are tasty, perfect for impressing your friends and family.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make these cookies a breeze to whip up.
• Customizable: Use your favorite jam or nuts to create endless flavor combinations.
• Perfect for Gifting: These little gems make a wonderful homemade gift for any occasion.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our buttery, tender cookies.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
• Unsalted Butter (Softened): The key to rich, buttery goodness. Make sure it’s nice and soft!
• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
• Egg (Separated): We’re using the yolk for richness and the white for coating.
• Vanilla Extract: A touch of warmth and sweetness.
• Walnuts (Toasted and Finely Chopped): For a nutty crunch and flavor.
• Raspberry Jam (Seedless): Or your favorite jam, for that sweet, gooey center.

Variations

• Nutty Swaps: Use pecans, almonds, or even pistachios instead of walnuts.
• Jam Jamboree: Try different jams like apricot, strawberry, or even fig jam.
• Chocolate Indulgence: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra treat.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.

How to Make Thumbprint Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In your mixer, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.

Step 4: Add Flour Mixture

Add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.

Step 5: Prepare Egg White and Nuts

In a small bowl, beat the egg white with a fork. In another shallow bowl, place the finely chopped walnuts.

Step 6: Shape and Coat

Shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the egg white, then in the walnuts, ensuring they’re well coated.

Step 7: Make Thumbprints

Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and press a deep indentation in the center of each ball with your thumb or a wine cork.

Step 8: First Bake and Fill

Bake for 8 minutes. Carefully fill each cookie with about ¼ teaspoon of jam.

Step 9: Final Bake

Bake for another 8 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.

Step 10: Cool

Let the cookies cool completely on wire racks.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for the best texture.
• Cookie Scoop: Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes.
• Rotate the Pan: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for even browning.
• Don’t overfill the thumbprint indentations, the jam will bubble and spill over.

How to Serve

• Tea Time Treat: Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Dessert Platter: Add them to a dessert platter for a variety of treats.
• Holiday Cookies: A festive addition to your holiday cookie trays.
• Gift Giving: Package them in a cute box for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Freezing

Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but omit the added salt in the recipe.

2. Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or any nut of your choice will work.

3. How do I prevent the jam from spilling over?
Don’t overfill the indentations and make sure to let the cookies cool completely before serving.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Conclusion

These Thumbprint Cookies are a must-bake! They’re easy, adorable, and utterly delicious. Perfect for any occasion, and they’ll bring a smile to everyone’s face. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get baking! You’re going to love them!

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