Butter Thumbprint Cookies

Butter Thumbprint Cookies are a timeless classic, perfect for any occasion! These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are tender and delicate, with a sweet jam-filled center that adds a pop of flavor and color. Easy to customize with your favorite preserves, they’re as delightful to make as they are to eat.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Baking sheets
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Measuring spoons

Ingredients Overview

• Butter: Provides the rich, tender base for the cookies. Use unsalted butter for better control of salt.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the dough, while powdered sugar can be used for a softer texture.
• Egg Yolk: Adds structure and richness to the cookies.
• Flour: All-purpose flour creates the perfect cookie consistency.
• Jam or Preserves: Use your favorite flavor—raspberry, apricot, or strawberry work beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
• In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in 1 large egg yolk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

2. Add the Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
• The dough should be soft but not sticky.

3. Shape the Cookies

• 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 teaspoon, press a small indentation into the center of each ball.

4. Fill with Jam

• Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen jam or preserves. Be careful not to overfill, as the jam can spill over while baking.

5. Bake

• Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are just lightly golden.
• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Recipe Tips

• Prevent Spreading: Chill the dough for 20-30 minutes before shaping if your cookies spread too much during baking.
• Jam Options: Experiment with different flavors or try lemon curd or chocolate spread for variety.
• Keep Them Fresh: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Pair these cookies with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa for a cozy treat. They also make a wonderful addition to holiday cookie platters or gift boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! Roll the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw slightly before making the indentations and baking.

Can I use salted butter?
If using salted butter, omit the additional salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting the cookies.

What other fillings can I use?
Beyond jam, try caramel, Nutella, or peanut butter for a creative twist.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• About 1/4 cup jam or preserves

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets.
2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Mix in egg yolk and vanilla.
3. Add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Shape dough into 1-inch balls and create indentations. Fill with jam.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool and enjoy!

These Butter Thumbprint Cookies are a simple yet elegant treat that everyone will love. Customize them with your favorite flavors and watch them disappear from the plate in no time!