Watch the video below for the recipe.
My first time making Thumbprint Cookies was on a snowy December birthday. The kitchen smelled amazing. It was a mix of sugar cookie dough, vanilla, and raspberry jam. Making these cookies made an ordinary day special. For my family, these cookies are a holiday tradition. They remind us of the joy of Christmas.
The cookies are topped with sparkling sugar and filled with jam. Every bite feels like home. Watch the video below to learn how to make them.
Ingredients for the Perfect Thumbprint Cookie
The secret to the perfect Thumbprint Cookie is in the cookie ingredients. You need unsalted butter at room temperature. Mix it with granulated sugar and light brown sugar. This gives the cookie a perfect mix of sweetness. Add one large egg yolk and lots of vanilla extract for flavor.
All-purpose flour makes the cookie strong. It uses a little cornstarch and salt too. This makes the jam or preserves set well on top. Adding some sugar around the dough makes it shiny. You can choose raspberry or apricot jam or preserves. This makes your cookie look and taste great.
Step-by-Step Thumbprint Cookie Recipe Instructions
Let’s start with the best mixes and ways. I will lead you through the main cookie recipe instructions. You’ll enjoy baking with these steps.
- Cream the butter: Start by making the butter smooth and light. Then, add the sugars and mix until fluffy.
- Add egg yolk and vanilla: Mix in the egg yolk and a bit of vanilla. This makes the taste rich in the cookie.
- Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, stir the flour, cornstarch, and salt. This makes the perfect base for cookie dough.
- Combine ingredients: Slowly add the dry mix to the wet one. This makes a dough that’s easy to shape.
- Shape the dough: Form the dough into small balls. You can make them sweeter by rolling them in sugar.
- Create indentations: Use your thumb or a small spoon to press into each ball. This shapes them for the jam.
- Chill the dough: Put the shaped dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps them keep their shape when baking.
- Fill with jam: Slightly warm your favorite jam so you can spoon it into the cookies easily.
- Bake: Cook the cookies at 350°F until they get golden brown, which is about 10-12 minutes.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool on a sheet first. Then, move them to a rack. This makes them crispy outside and soft inside.
Just follow these easy how-to steps, and you’ll bake great thumbprint cookies. They will not only taste good but also look pretty. The secret to baking cookies right is to care about little things all the way. This is from stirring the cookie dough to putting on the final jam touch.
Tips for Successful Thumbprint Cookies
Want to bake perfect Thumbprint Cookies? Here’s what you need to know. Use a kitchen scale for the right amounts of ingredients. This stops the cookies from getting too flat. Make sure the dough balls are smooth without cracks. When you press your thumb in them, be gentle.
Keep your baking sheet cool to stop the dough from spreading too much. Thicker jams are best for the center. They won’t get too flat, keeping the cookie’s traditional look.
Follow these steps for great cookies. They will have tasty jam and a soft outside. Use these tips to make everyone’s favorite cookies. They’ll be perfect every time.
FAQ
What makes the Thumbprint Cookie Recipe special?
My Thumbprint Cookie Recipe is special. It has a sugar cookie dough base with the option of sparkling sugar. And it has a center filled with jam for great flavor. It’s perfect for Christmas, spreading joy with its sweet and festive look.
What are the essential ingredients required for these cookies?
The perfect Thumbprint Cookie needs unsalted butter, sugars, an egg yolk, vanilla, flour, cornstarch, salt, and jam. You can also use sparkling sugar for extra shine.
How do I prepare the cookie dough properly?
Start by creaming softened butter until smooth. Mix in sugars, then add egg yolk and vanilla. Combine the dry and wet ingredients. Make the dough into balls. Optional: roll them in sugar, and chill.
Can I use any type of jam for filling the cookies?
Yes, any jam works. I like raspberry, but use what you love. Apricot or strawberry are also good choices.
How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?
Keep the baking sheet cool. Chill the dough before baking. Use precise measurements and gently press the dough for the jam.
What’s the best way to make the indentations for the jam filling?
Gently press the dough with your thumb or a spoon back. This creates a perfect space for the jam without damaging the dough.
Why should I warm the jam before filling the cookies?
Warming the jam makes it easier to fill the cookies. It ensures a seamless blend of jam and cookie after baking.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are ready when their edges are a nice golden brown. That signals they’re perfectly soft and structured.
Can I roll the dough in sugar before baking? What effect does this have?
Yes, rolling the dough in sugar is fine. It gives each cookie sparkle and a soft crunch that goes well with the buttery texture.
What are some expert tips for achieving the best Thumbprint Cookies?
Use a scale for exact measurements. Make smooth dough balls and gently press for the jam. Start with a cool sheet. Choose a thick jam to avoid leaks. These steps lead to amazing cookies every time.
Source Links
- https://sugarspunrun.com/thumbprint-cookies/
- https://www.loveandlemons.com/thumbprint-cookies/
- https://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/thumbprint-cookies/
Jenny has always been passionate about cooking, and she uses her platform to share her joy of food with others. Her recipes are easy to follow, and she loves giving tips and tricks to help others create their own unique culinary creations.