Name: Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies: 5 Simple Steps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 large egg yolks; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup fruit jam or preserves (raspberry, strawberry, apricot, etc.); Extra granulated sugar for rolling (optional)

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Butter Thumbprint Cookies evoke feelings of nostalgia with their buttery shortbread base and luscious jam centers. These cookies are not just a treat; they’re a beloved classic that can be whipped up quickly for any occasion, be it a holiday gathering or an afternoon snack with friends. Their soft texture and sweet filling make them irresistible, especially for those who enjoy making homemade treats with their family. Crafted with simple ingredients, these cookies are easy enough for kids to help with, ensuring a fun baking experience!

Why You’ll Love This Butter Thumbprint Cookies

These thumbprint cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore them:

Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy bakers.
Versatile with various jam fillings, from raspberry to apricot.
A soft and buttery cookie that melts in your mouth.
Ideal for gifting during holidays or special occasions.

A fun baking project for kids; they’ll love pressing their thumbs!
Can be made gluten-free or vegan with simple substitutions.

These cookies are a traditional butter thumbprint cookies recipe that fits right into American Cuisine and is suitable for a vegetarian Diet.

Ingredients for Butter Thumbprint Cookies

Gather these items:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup fruit jam or preserves (raspberry, strawberry, apricot, etc.)
Extra granulated sugar for rolling (optional)

How to Make Butter Thumbprint Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
Step 2: Add the egg yolks, vanilla, and almond extract. Beat until combined.
Step 3: In another bowl, whisk the flour and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture and mix until dough forms.

Step 4: Chill dough for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 5: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 6: Roll 1-tablespoon scoops of dough into balls. Optional: roll in sugar.
Step 7: Gently press thumb or teaspoon into center to make an indent.
Step 8: Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon jam.
Step 9: Bake 12–15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
Step 10: Cool on baking sheet 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool fully.

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Pro Tips for the Best Butter Thumbprint Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much.
Experiment with different jam flavors for unique twists, such as chocolate filling or almond jam.
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Consider using a teaspoon to create the indent for a perfect thumbprint.

Best Ways to Serve Butter Thumbprint Cookies

These cookies shine on any dessert table. Try serving them with:

A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert combo.
A cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
Pack them in gift boxes during the holiday season for friends and family.

How to Store and Reheat Butter Thumbprint Cookies

To store, place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to make them ahead of time, bake them and allow them to cool fully before storing. For meal prep, consider freezing the cookie dough; just roll into balls and freeze. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Thumbprint Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Butter Thumbprint Cookies?

The key to perfect butter cookies is in the dough preparation. Make sure to chill it adequately before baking to get the right texture and avoid spreading. Using high-quality jam will enhance the flavor and presentation of your cookies.

Can I make Butter Thumbprint Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. Just thaw and bake as needed for fresh homemade thumbprint cookies with jam.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Butter Thumbprint Cookies?

To avoid common pitfalls, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Chilling the dough is also essential for maintaining the shape of the cookies while baking. Don’t forget to adjust the baking time if you’re using different jam fillings!

Variations of Butter Thumbprint Cookies You Can Try

Enhance your classic thumbprint cookies with exciting variations:

Almond Thumbprint Cookies with Butter: Add almond flour for a nutty flavor.
Gluten-Free Thumbprint Cookies Recipe: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend.
Vegan Thumbprint Cookies Made with Butter: Replace butter with vegan margarine and egg yolks with flax eggs.
Thumbprint Cookies with Chocolate Filling: Swap jam for your favorite chocolate ganache.

These delightful treats are sure to please any crowd, showcasing the versatility of thumbprint cookies!

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