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Thumbprint Cookies with Fruit Preserves Recipe


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3.9 from 2 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 1 hour 16 minutes
  • Yield: 32 servings

Description

These classic Thumbprint Cookies feature a tender buttery dough with a delightful dollop of sweet fruit preserves in the center. Perfectly portioned and baked until just set, they offer a nostalgic treat ideal for sharing or gifting during holidays and special occasions.


Ingredients

Cookie Dough

  • 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (283g) all-purpose flour (scoop and level to measure)

Filling

  • 1/2 cup fruit preserves or jam (such as Bonne Maman)


Instructions

  1. Whisk Sugar and Salt: Pour sugar and salt into the bowl of a stand mixer and whisk briefly to combine evenly.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: Add the room temperature unsalted butter to the sugar mixture and blend using the paddle attachment until light and fluffy. Scrape down the bowl sides to ensure uniform mixing.
  3. Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla: Mix in the two egg yolks along with the vanilla extract until fully incorporated, scraping down the bowl again for even blending.
  4. Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix until just combined to form a soft cookie dough.
  5. Shape Dough Balls and Make Indents: Scoop dough into 1-inch balls (about 20g or just over 1 tablespoon each) and place on a parchment-lined flat dish. Press your thumb or a wine cork into the center of each ball to create an indent, being careful not to press all the way through.
  6. Freeze Dough: Freeze the shaped dough balls for 20 minutes to help them hold their shape during baking. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Fill and Arrange on Baking Sheet: Remove half of the chilled dough balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet spaced about 2 inches apart. Fill each indent with about 1/2 teaspoon of fruit preserves.
  8. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the cookies are nearly set and lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool for several minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Repeat and Store: Repeat the filling and baking process with the remaining dough. Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness.

Notes

  • Using room temperature butter helps achieve a smooth and creamy dough texture.
  • Freezing the dough before baking prevents the cookies from spreading too much, maintaining a neat shape.
  • Choose your favorite flavor of fruit preserves for varying cookie tastes, such as raspberry, apricot, or strawberry.
  • Cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to one week.
  • For a festive touch, dust cookies lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American