A classic treat with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture, Thumbprint Cookies are as versatile as they are delightful. Fill them with your favorite jam, chocolate, or even nut butter for a personalized touch to suit any occasion.

Ingredients

For The Cookies

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• ⅔ cup (130g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  ¼ tsp salt

Optional for Rolling

• 1 large egg white, lightly beaten (for binding the sugar)
• ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar or finely chopped nuts

For the Filling

• ⅓ cup (80ml) jam (e.g., raspberry, apricot, or strawberry)
• Or melted chocolate, caramel, or nut butter

Preparation

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 10–12 minutes per batch
Yield: About 24 cookies

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
   • Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until fully combined.
   • Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Chill the Dough:
   • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
3. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
4. Shape and Roll:
   • Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
   • If desired, roll the dough balls in egg white and then in granulated sugar or finely chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
5. Create the Thumbprints:
   • Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
   • Using your thumb (or the back of a small spoon), press an indent into the center of each ball.
6. Fill the Indents:
   • Spoon about ½ teaspoon of jam or your preferred filling into each indent.
7. Bake:
   • Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success

• Prevent Cracks: Roll the dough until smooth to reduce cracking when making indents.
• Jam Alternatives: Try lemon curd, Nutella, or a dollop of peanut butter for variety.
• Storing: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.

Fun Twists

• Holiday Thumbprints: Use red and green jams (like raspberry and lime) for festive colors.
• Chocolate Lovers: Fill with melted chocolate and top with a sprinkle of sea salt.
• Savory Option: Experiment with savory fillings like herbed cream cheese for an appetizer twist.

Final Touch

Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert spread, offering endless opportunities for creativity. Their charming appearance and customizable fillings make them a hit for holidays, tea parties, or everyday snacking.

Happy baking—enjoy these little bites of joy! 🍪✨