Why Make This Recipe
Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy to any holiday gathering. These cookies are not only easy to make, but they also fill your kitchen with a scrumptious aroma as they bake. Rolling the dough into balls and creating little wells for jam gives them a fun look and adds a burst of flavor. They are perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
How to Make Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup jam (your choice)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to create an indention in the center of each ball.
- Fill each indention with a small amount of jam.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool before dusting with powdered sugar. Enjoy!
How to Serve Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
Serve Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies on a festive tray during holiday parties. They are perfect for dessert or as a sweet snack throughout the day. Pair them with a warm beverage like hot chocolate or tea for a cozy treat.
How to Store Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
To keep these cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will last for up to three months.
Tips to Make Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Experiment with different types of jam for a unique flavor. Raspberry, strawberry, and apricot are popular choices.
- Don’t over bake the cookies. They should be lightly golden around the edges for the best texture.
Serving Ideas
Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts or coconut flakes on top of the jam for an extra touch. You can also serve these cookies with a side of whipped cream for dipping.
Final Thoughts
Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies are an enjoyable and festive addition to any holiday celebration. They are simple to make and always loved by everyone. The combination of buttery cookies and sweet jam is truly irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While it’s best to use unsalted butter for flavor, margarine can work as a substitute if needed.
What type of jam works best?
You can use any jam you like! Some favorites include raspberry, strawberry, and apricot.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just bring it to room temperature before baking.
Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
Ingredients
For the cookie dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling and dusting
- 1/2 cup jam (your choice) Experiment with different types of jam for a unique flavor.
- Powdered sugar for dusting Dust cookies once cooled.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to create an indention in the center of each ball.
- Fill each indention with a small amount of jam.
Baking
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool before dusting with powdered sugar. Enjoy!