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Amazing Thumbprint Cookies: 12+ Perfect Bites

Close-up of golden thumbprint cookies filled with glistening red jam on a white plate.

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Bake buttery, rich thumbprint cookies filled with jewel-toned jam for a festive holiday treat. These shortbread cookies hold their shape and are perfect for gift boxes.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup jam (raspberry, apricot, or your favorite)

Instructions

  1. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
  8. Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to create an indentation in the center of each cookie.
  9. Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of jam.
  10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  11. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For a smoother jam filling, you can warm it slightly and strain out any large fruit pieces.
  • If your dough becomes too soft while rolling, chill it again for a few minutes.
  • Consider using a variety of jam flavors for a colorful assortment.
  • These cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

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