Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.1 cup unsalted butter, softened, ½ cup granulated sugar
- Add the large egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.1 large egg yolk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.2 cups all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon salt
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms. Do not overmix, as this can result in tough cookies. The dough will be soft but should hold together.
- For easier handling and to prevent spreading, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This step is particularly helpful in warmer climates.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls. You can optionally roll the balls in finely chopped nuts or sprinkles at this stage if desired. Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.finely chopped nuts, sprinkles
- Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, gently press an indentation into the center of each cookie dough ball. Make the indentation deep enough to hold the jam but not so deep that it goes through the bottom of the cookie.
- Spoon about ½ to 1 teaspoon of your chosen jam or preserves into each indentation. Be careful not to overfill.½ cup jam or preserves
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown and the centers appear set. The jam might bubble slightly.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period allows them to firm up and prevents them from breaking.
- Once cooled, you can dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar, or add a drizzle of melted chocolate if you're feeling extra festive!powdered sugar
Notes
To enjoy your delicious Amazing Thumbprint Cookies for as long as possible, proper storage is key. Once completely cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and maintain their delightful texture for up to 5 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks or frozen for up to 3 months (unbaked dough or baked cookies). Gently warm if needed.