Classic Thumbprint Cookies with Jam
My goto thumbprint cookie recipe These classic buttery shortbread raspberry thumbprint cookies are perfect for bake sales or a cuppa Get the easy recipe ... Desserts & Sweets
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a proper biscuit with your cuppa? Ever wondered how to make those delightful little cookies? This thumbprint cookie recipe is about to become your new go-to! Honestly, these are so easy, even I can make them without setting the kitchen on fire.
Plus, they've got that perfect buttery, sweet flavour combo.
Brief Overview
These classic thumbprint cookies hail from good old European baking traditions. They’re basically a shortbread hug filled with jam. This thumbprint cookie recipe is dead easy and takes about an hour from start to finish.
You'll get around 24 delicious cookies. Perfect for sharing... or not.
Main Benefits
Let's be honest, baking is good for the soul, innit? Also, these jam thumbprint cookies are guaranteed to cheer up even the grumpiest of folks.
They're great for a bake sale cookies , afternoon tea, or just a sneaky snack. These cookies feel special because they’re like little edible jewels with the jam sparkling in the middle! A simple butter cookies recipe with endless possibilities.
Ready to get baking these easy Christmas cookies recipe ? First, let's gather your ingredients.
Classic Thumbprint Cookies with Jam Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment
Alright, let's talk ingredients for this absolutely smashing thumbprint cookie recipe . I swear, even if you can't bake to save your life, you'll nail these.
Main Ingredients
Okay, so for the dough, you'll need 1 cup (227g) of softened unsalted butter. Honestly, the butter HAS to be soft, not melted, otherwise, the cookie dough will be ruined.
You will also need ½ cup (100g) of granulated sugar and ¼ cup (50g) of light brown sugar. Don't forget 1 large egg yolk and 1 teaspoon (5ml) of vanilla extract.
Finally, you will need 2 cups (250g) of all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon (1.5ml) of salt. I always use proper butter in my butter cookies recipe , it just makes a difference.
For the filling, about ½ cup (140g) of seedless jam. Raspberry is my jam (pun intended!), but strawberry or apricot work wonders too.
For the optional coating, make sure you have 1 large egg white , lightly beaten, and ½ cup (50g) of finely chopped nuts.
I used pecans.
Seasoning Notes
Vanilla extract is crucial. It adds warmth. A tiny pinch of cinnamon in the dough? Divine! If you only got salted butter, skip the salt.
The essential spice combinations really elevate the flavor, you know? If you're feeling a bit fancy, a dash of almond extract with the raspberry jam can totally level up your cookies!
Equipment Needed
Right, equipment-wise, nothing too wild. You'll need mixing bowls, an electric mixer (either a stand mixer or a handheld one), measuring cups and spoons, baking sheets, and parchment paper.
A melon baller makes divots easily. If you haven't got one, back of a teaspoon will do just as well.
Honestly, my kitchen looks like a bomb site when I am baking these, but so worth it.
These classic thumbprint cookies are dead easy and super satisfying. I bake loads to share with my neighbors. These are amazing for a bake sale cookies .
They would not last long at all.
Baking Like Grandma: Mastering the Classic Thumbprint Cookie Recipe
Alright, you lot! Let’s talk about thumbprint cookies . Honestly, is there anything more comforting? They're the quintessential easy Christmas cookies recipe and perfect for a bake sale cookies .
My nan used to whip these up every Christmas, and the smell alone would send me straight back to childhood.
Getting Ready to Bake: The Mise en Place Lowdown
First things first, prep is key. This ain't no soggy bottom situation! Get your ingredients measured out. Creaming together the butter and sugar will be much easier if your butter is properly softened.
Remember to have your jam , and optional finely chopped nuts prepped and ready.
Step-by-Step to Thumbprint Perfection
Ready to bake a batch of classic thumbprint cookies ? Here's the easy-peasy process:
- Cream together the softened butter , granulated sugar , and brown sugar until fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes.
- Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla . Make sure it is well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt . Mix until just combined. Don’t overmix or you’ll end up with tough cookies, no one wants that!
- Wrap the dough and chill for at least 30 minutes . Honestly, I sometimes leave it longer.
- Preheat your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) . Line your baking sheets.
- (Optional) Dip each ball in egg whites, and then the nuts.
- Roll the dough into balls. Then, press your thumb (or the back of a spoon) into each one to make a little well.
- Fill each well with jam . Bake for 10- 12 minutes , until the edges are golden.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Batch
Want to up your thumbprint game? Here are a few secrets I've picked up over the years. Firstly, don't skip the chilling! Secondly, use good quality jam! Also, for a bit of fancy flair, try rolling the dough balls in finely chopped nuts before baking.
It adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal.
Thumbprint cookies with icing is an optional choice, and with all of these homemade cookie recipes , it's just what you need.
So there you have it, your guide to Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies . Get baking, and let me know how yours turn out! Remember this is a butter cookies recipe , so don't skip it!
Okay, so you’ve just baked these amazing classic thumbprint cookies . Now what? Let's chat about making them even better! This easy Christmas cookies recipe is about to get even easier.
Recipe Notes and Nifty Tricks
Serving Suggestions – Fancy Pants or Comfy Casual?
Honestly, these jam thumbprint cookies are gorgeous enough to stand alone. But hey, why not go the extra mile? A simple dusting of icing sugar makes them look extra special.
For plating, a tiered cake stand does wonders! Think of it as your own mini bake-off challenge. A nice cuppa is non-negotiable.
Earl Grey anyone?
Storage Tips – Keep ‘Em Fresh!
Right, so you’ve baked a batch of these bake sale cookies , but can't eat them all? Who can? Refrigeration is your friend! Keep them in an airtight container; they'll last for about five days.
Freezing? Absolutely! Just pop them in a freezer bag, and they’re good for a month or two. When you want one, just let them thaw at room temperature for like, 30 minutes.
Sorted!
Variations – Let’s Get Wild!
Okay, so maybe you're feeling adventurous? These shortbread raspberry thumbprint cookies are super adaptable. Swap the jam for lemon curd.
Zesty! Or how about a dab of Nutella? For a dietary switch-up, gluten-free flour works a treat. Just make sure it’s a good blend.
Honestly, it's that simple!
Nutrition Basics – A Little Treat, Right?
Let's be real, these are cookies. Each homemade cookie recipe is about 120 calories. They’ve got some fats, some carbs.
But a little treat is good for the soul. Plus, they make everyone happy. That's got to count for something health-wise, right? Butter cookies recipe is like pure joy.
So, there you have it! A delightful thumbprint cookie recipe with all the tips and tricks. Now, go forth and bake! And remember, it's all about having fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my thumbprint cookies spreading too much? They look a bit like pancakes!
Ah, the dreaded cookie spread! This usually happens because the butter was too warm when you creamed it with the sugar. Make sure it's softened, not melted. Also, chilling the dough for the recommended time (or even a bit longer) is crucial – it firms up the butter and prevents excessive spreading in the oven. Think of it as a spa day for your dough, ensuring perfectly shaped thumbprint cookies!
Can I use different types of jam for my thumbprint cookie recipe? I'm feeling adventurous!
Absolutely! That's the beauty of thumbprint cookies; they're totally customisable. Raspberry and apricot are classic choices, but don't be afraid to experiment with other flavors like blackberry, fig, or even a tangy lemon curd. Just make sure the jam is seedless for the best texture and avoid overly runny jams which might boil over. Think of your thumbprint cookie as a blank canvas for your culinary creativity!
How long will these thumbprint cookies keep, and what's the best way to store them?
Thumbprint cookies are best enjoyed within 3-5 days. To keep them fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the unbaked dough balls (without the jam) and bake them fresh whenever you fancy a sweet treat, like having a stash of cookie dough on hand!
My jam keeps bubbling over the sides when I bake these. What am I doing wrong with this thumbprint cookie recipe?
Overfilling the indentation is the most common culprit. A little goes a long way! Aim for about 1/4 teaspoon of jam per cookie. Also, if your jam is particularly thin or watery, it's more likely to bubble. Consider simmering it in a saucepan for a few minutes to thicken it slightly before using. This is like giving your jam a quick makeover before its big moment in the oven!
Can I freeze the thumbprint cookie dough?
Yes, you can definitely freeze the dough! Roll the dough into balls, make the thumbprints, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, you can bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time, just fill with jam before baking. This is perfect for having freshly baked cookies on demand – like having a secret stash of deliciousness!
Are there any variations I can try with this thumbprint cookie recipe?
Absolutely! Consider adding lemon zest or a pinch of almond extract to the dough for a unique flavor. You can also roll the dough balls in chopped nuts or sprinkles before making the thumbprint. For a chocolate version, add cocoa powder to the dough and fill with Nutella. The possibilities are endless. Go on, get your bake on!
