Name: Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 large egg yolks; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup jam (options like raspberry, strawberry, or apricot) or colorful holiday icing for filling

Christmas Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful holiday classic, embodying the spirit of Christmas with their buttery texture and sweet, colorful centers. Whether filled with vibrant jams or adorned with festive icing, these cookies are not only easy to make but are also a visually appealing addition to any Christmas cookie tray.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 large egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup jam (options like raspberry, strawberry, or apricot) or colorful holiday icing for filling

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla: Mix in the egg yolks and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine with Dry Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

Form Dough Balls: Take about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball.
Make the Thumbprint: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Press an indentation into the center of each dough ball using your thumb or the back of a small spoon.

Step 3: Fill and Bake

Add Jam or Leave Plain: Spoon a small amount of jam into the indentation of each cookie. If using icing, leave the thumbprint empty and bake the cookies without filling.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. The jam will set slightly if used.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Add Icing (If Using)

Fill with Icing: If the cookies were baked unfilled, prepare icing by mixing powdered sugar with a little milk and food coloring. Fill the thumbprint with the icing once the cookies are cool, allowing it to set.

Variations

Nutty Flavor: Add finely chopped nuts to the dough or sprinkle them over the jam before baking for added texture and flavor.
Chocolate Twist: Fill the indentations with a small piece of chocolate instead of jam and bake as usual.

Cooking Note

To ensure even baking and to prevent the cookies from spreading too much, make sure the butter is properly softened but not melted.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies with a side of mulled wine or hot chocolate for a cozy, festive treat.

Tips

Uniform Cookies: Use a small ice cream scoop to form uniform dough balls.
Prevent Cracking: Do not press too hard when making the thumbprint to avoid cracking the edges.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 120 per cookie
Protein: 1 g per cookie
Sodium: 30 mg per cookie

FAQs

Q: How long can I store these cookies? A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Q: Can I freeze the dough for later use? A: Yes, the dough can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.

Conclusion

Christmas Thumbprint Cookies are a quintessential treat that adds warmth and color to your holiday festivities. With the ability to customize the fillings and toppings, these cookies offer a personal touch to your holiday baking, ensuring they are as fun to make as they are to eat. Enjoy crafting these sweet, festive cookies and share the joy they bring with friends and family.