Get ready to discover the most irresistible cookie recipe that's guaranteed to become an instant family favorite! These classic Thumbprint Cookies are not just a treat; they're a nostalgic journey into sweet memories, with a perfect balance of buttery, crumbly goodness and a burst of fruity jam in every bite. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this simple yet spectacular recipe will have everyone asking for seconds – and the recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 32 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup jam (any flavor)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer. Mix for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes pale and smooth.
- Add vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. The dough should be cohesive but not sticky.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Using your thumb or the back of a rounded teaspoon, make a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
- Fill each indentation with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen jam, being careful not to overfill.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. The jam will set as the cookies cool.
- Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted for the perfect cookie texture.
- Chill Out: If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before shaping to make handling easier.
- Uniform Size: Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to create evenly sized cookies for consistent baking.
- Jam Selection: Choose high-quality jam with a thick consistency to prevent spreading during baking.
- Thumb Technique: Wet your thumb slightly or use the back of a rounded teaspoon to create perfect indentations.
- Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool entirely to let the jam set and develop the best flavor and texture.
- Storage Tip: Layer cookies between parchment paper when storing to prevent sticking and maintain their delicate shape.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
