Why make this recipe
Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat during the holiday season. They are not only easy to make, but they also bring a cheerful touch to any festive gathering. Their charming shape and bright colors make them perfect for gifting or sharing with family and friends. Plus, the combination of buttery cookies and sweet fruit preserves is simply irresistible!
How to make Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup fruit preserves (e.g., raspberry, apricot)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until fully incorporated.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on ungreased baking sheets.
- Make an indentation in the center of each ball using your thumb.
- Fill each indentation with a small amount of fruit preserves.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
How to serve Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
These cookies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Serve them on a festive platter at holiday parties or place them in a decorative box as gifts. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa.
how to store Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. Just place them in a freezer-safe container and enjoy them within three months.
Tips to make Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
- Make sure the butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
- Use a measuring spoon to create even indentations in the dough.
- Feel free to experiment with different flavors of fruit preserves to find your favorite.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
variation
You can add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the cookie dough for extra flavor and texture. Another variation is to use flavored extracts, like almond or lemon, to give the cookies a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but it may change the texture slightly.
2. What kind of fruit preserves should I use?
You can use any type of fruit preserves you like, such as raspberry, apricot, or strawberry.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to let it warm up a bit before rolling it into balls.
Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful buttery cookies filled with sweet fruit preserves, perfect for holiday gifting and sharing.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup fruit preserves (e.g., raspberry, apricot)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until fully incorporated.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on ungreased baking sheets.
- Make an indentation in the center of each ball using your thumb.
- Fill each indentation with a small amount of fruit preserves.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
