Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies

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Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies

When you’re in the mood for something comforting and classic, Butter Thumbprint Cookies come to mind. These delightful baked treats, with their rich butter flavor and sweet jam filling, are a nostalgic favorite for many. I first encountered these cookies at a family gathering, where the aroma of melting butter filled the air, and the sight of these beautiful little cookies was hard to resist. Perfect for holiday cookie trays, afternoon teas, or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee, they remind us that sometimes simplicity speaks volumes.

Why You’ll Love Making It

The charm of Butter Thumbprint Cookies lies not just in their taste but also in their ease of preparation. They require minimal ingredients, making them budget-friendly and quick. Ideal for holiday baking marathons or cozy weekend afternoons, these cookies are kid-approved, so don’t hesitate to get the little ones involved in the fun of creating sweet treats. With just a few steps and a little creativity, you can whip up a batch that will impress friends and family alike.

"These Butter Thumbprint Cookies are a game changer! They disappeared so quickly at our family gathering. I’ll definitely be making these again!" – A satisfied baker

Preparing Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies

Making Butter Thumbprint Cookies is a breeze! The process is straightforward, perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. You can expect a creamy butter mixture, a delicate dough, and the fun of creating little wells for your favorite jam. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll be rewarding yourself with freshly baked cookies. Here’s how it all comes together:

Gather Your Ingredients

You’ll need the following essentials to get started:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Jam or fruit preserves of your choice

Feel free to swap out certain ingredients; for example, coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with powdered sugar until the mixture looks light and fluffy.
3. Add in the vanilla extract and mix to combine.
4. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt, mixing until everything is well combined.
5. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a lined baking sheet.
6. Make an indent in each ball with your thumb, creating a little well for the filling.
7. Fill these indents with your chosen jam or fruit preserves.
8. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown.
9. Once ready, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

Best Way to Serve

These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience with a few simple serving ideas. Pair them with a rich cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. For gatherings, consider arranging them on a beautiful platter with some whipped cream or fresh fruit. They also make a lovely addition to dessert tables at parties, where guests will appreciate the variety of flavors offered by different jams.

Storage Tips

To keep your Butter Thumbprint Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly stored, they will last for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature and enjoy the homemade goodness.

Pro Chef Tips

• Ensure your butter is very soft for easy creaming with sugar.
• Don’t skip the indent-making step; it allows the jams to sit perfectly in the cookie.
• For an extra touch, sprinkle powdered sugar over the cookies once cooled for a decorative finish.

Creative Twists

Looking to personalize your Butter Thumbprint Cookies? Here are a few variations to consider:

• Use flavored extracts like almond or lemon to change up the flavor profile.
• Try different jams—raspberry, apricot, or even Nutella as a chocolatey alternative.
• For a festive flair, incorporate finely chopped nuts into the dough or on top.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare these cookies?

The total prep and bake time is approximately 30 minutes, making these cookies a quick treat!

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter is recommended for flavor, margarine can be used in a pinch. However, be aware that it may alter the texture.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

What can I use as a jam substitute?

You can fill the thumbprints with chocolate ganache, lemon curd, or even peanut butter for a delicious twist.

Embrace the delightful simplicity of these Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies and watch as they become a beloved addition to your baking repertoire! Happy baking!

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Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Delightful baked treats filled with your favorite jam, perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Jam or fruit preserves of your choice

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream the softened butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix to combine.
4. Gradually incorporate flour and salt, mixing until well combined.
5. Roll the dough into small balls and place on a lined baking sheet.
6. Make an indent in each ball with your thumb for the filling.
7. Fill the indents with your chosen jam or fruit preserves.
8. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until edges turn light golden brown.
9. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Cookies can also be frozen for longer storage.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: cookies, thumbprint cookies, baking, desserts, festive treats