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Best Thumbprint Cookies
As a chef, I often find my inspiration in the warmth of family memories. One recipe that stands out is for the Best Thumbprint Cookies. I remember standing in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, the scent of butter and sugar filling the air. Those moments spent rolling the cookie dough and making little indentations with my thumb are some of my most cherished memories. She always filled those thumbprints with raspberry jam, and every bite burst with sweetness and nostalgia.
Baking these cookies now takes me back to those golden days with her. I love how a simple recipe can carry so much love and warmth. Each time I make the Best Thumbprint Cookies, I feel her spirit guiding me, reminding me of the joy that baking can bring to our lives. It’s not just about the cookies; it’s about sharing those moments with loved ones, creating memories, and, of course, enjoying the delicious results.
why make this recipe
Everyone loves cookies, but the Best Thumbprint Cookies hold a special place in my heart and, I believe, in yours too. These little gems are more than just a treat; they are a wonderful way to connect with family and friends. They remind us of the joy of baking and the magic that happens when we share something sweet with others. Plus, the recipe is easy to follow, making it great for both new and experienced bakers.
The beauty of the Best Thumbprint Cookies lies in their versatility. You can experiment with different fillings like raspberry, strawberry, or even chocolate. Each filling adds a new twist to the classic cookie. Furthermore, they are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to birthday parties. When you present these cookies, you’ll see smiles light up faces as soon as they take that first bite.
In addition, these cookies are not too sweet, thanks to the balance of butter, sugar, and jam. This balance creates a delightful mix of flavors that you and your loved ones will savor. Also, baking these cookies fills your kitchen with a wonderful smell that makes everyone feel at home. Overall, making the Best Thumbprint Cookies will surely turn into one of your favorite baking traditions.
how to make Best Thumbprint Cookies
Ingredients :
- 1 cup unsalted Butter
- 2/3 cup Sugar
- 1/2 cup Raspberry jam
- 1 cup Powdered sugar
- 2 1/4 cups All-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp Almond extract
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Milk
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the vanilla extract and almond extract.
- Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and salt until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Make an indentation in the center of each ball using your thumb or the back of a spoon.
- Fill each indentation with raspberry jam.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool before transferring them to a wire rack.
how to serve Best Thumbprint Cookies
When it comes to serving, the Best Thumbprint Cookies shine in their simplicity. Serve these cookies on a pretty plate, and they look appealing. You can present them warm, directly from the oven, or let them cool completely. Both ways, they taste amazing! They go well with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or even a glass of cold milk.
For special occasions, consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving. This little touch not only enhances their appearance but adds a bit of extra sweetness. You can also make a small dessert platter alongside other cookies or treats for a lovely presentation at parties or family gatherings.
These cookies are perfect for sharing. Package them in a decorative box to gift to friends or family members. Whether for holidays, celebrations, or just because, the Best Thumbprint Cookies make every moment sweeter.
how to store Best Thumbprint Cookies
To keep the Best Thumbprint Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They last about one week at room temperature. Make sure the cookies are completely cooled before sealing them to prevent moisture build-up. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. This way, you can enjoy them for up to three months.
When you are ready to eat the frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature. They’ll regain their delightful texture and flavor. If you find the cookies a bit dry, a quick reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for just a few minutes can revive their softness.
Tips to Make Best Thumbprint Cookies
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Ensure Butter Temperature: Use soft, room-temperature butter for the best texture. Cold butter makes it hard to cream with sugar, leading to dense cookies. Allow the butter to sit out for about 30 minutes before you start.
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Don’t Overmix the Dough: When combining the flour and other dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Aim for a soft dough that holds together well.
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Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies keep their shape during baking and prevents them from spreading too much.
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Make Indentations Carefully: When creating thumbprints, don’t press too hard; you want a nice dip without breaking the cookie. Use your thumb or a small round utensil for a perfect shape.
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Use Quality Jam: The jam plays a significant role in flavor. Choose a good-quality raspberry jam for a rich, fruity burst. Feel free to try different flavors for unique twists!
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Alternate Fillings: Experiment with different fillings like chocolate hazelnut spread, or lemon curd. These alternatives make the cookies exciting and fun, especially for various seasons.
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Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Ovens vary, so check around the 12-minute mark to avoid overbaking. The edges should be lightly golden.
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Cool Completely: Once baked, let the cookies cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This extra time ensures they hold together and maintain their shape.
Variation of Best Thumbprint Cookies
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Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies: Swap out part of the flour for cocoa powder to make chocolatey thumbprint cookies. Fill the indentations with chocolate ganache for an extra rich treat!
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Citrus Burst Version: Use lemon or orange marmalade in place of raspberry jam. The refreshing citrus flavors add a zesty touch, making them perfect for spring or summer gatherings.
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the dough for a delightful crunch. You can also use nut butter as a filling for a nutty twist.
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Holiday Spice Cookies: Add spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to the dough for a festive flavor. Fill them with spiced apple butter for a cozy taste perfect for the holidays.
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Low-Sugar Variation: Use a sugar substitute for the sugar and powdered sugar portions. This variation still tastes delicious and is suitable for those seeking a lower-sugar treat.
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Double-Filled Version: Create a layer effect by filling the thumbprint with raspberry jam and then topping with a layer of cream cheese frosting. This gives a creamy finish and a unique flavor contrast.
FAQs Of Best Thumbprint Cookies
1. Can I use other types of jam in the Best Thumbprint Cookies?
Yes, absolutely! You can use any flavor of jam, such as strawberry, blueberry, or apricot. Each different jam will give a unique twist to the cookie, allowing for versatile flavor options.
2. How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Cookies are usually done when the edges are slightly golden, and the tops look set. If you gently press the surface, it should feel firm. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to dry cookies.
3. Can I freeze unbaked dough for Best Thumbprint Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the dough! Shape it into balls and place them in a freezer bag. To bake later, simply remove from the freezer and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. What should I do if the cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, check the temperature of the butter. It should be soft but not melted. Additionally, refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help maintain their shape.
5. How long can I store the Best Thumbprint Cookies?
They can last about one week at room temperature if stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months while ensuring they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
6. How can I prevent my cookies from being too dry?
Ensure that you do not overmix the dough and keep an eye on the baking time. Also, use the correct butter temperature, and avoid letting them stay in the oven longer than necessary.
Best Thumbprint Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These delightful thumbprint cookies filled with raspberry jam are a nostalgic treat, perfect for sharing and creating cherished memories.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted Butter
- 2/3 cup Sugar
- 1/2 cup Raspberry jam
- 1 cup Powdered sugar
- 2 1/4 cups All-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp Almond extract
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the vanilla extract and almond extract.
- Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and salt until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Make an indentation in the center of each ball using your thumb or the back of a spoon.
- Fill each indentation with raspberry jam.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool before transferring them to a wire rack.
Notes
For special occasions, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to one week, or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cookies, thumbprint cookies, raspberry jam, baking, dessert
