Oh, let me tell you about these *Christmas thumbprint cookies*! They’re like little bites of holiday magic, bursting with your favorite fruit jam right in the middle. Every time I make them, I’m transported back to my childhood kitchen, where my family would gather to bake and share stories. The smell of buttery cookies wafting through the air is enough to make anyone feel festive! You’ll find the dough is so simple to whip up, yet it delivers such a delightful treat—perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holidays. Trust me, once you take a bite of that sweet jam nestled in the soft, buttery cookie, you’ll be hooked. These cookies are not just a dessert; they’re a warm hug of nostalgia and joy that make every holiday season unforgettable!
Ingredients for Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – this is the foundation of your cookies, giving them structure and that classic cookie texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – it’s crucial for that rich, buttery flavor, and make sure it’s soft enough to cream easily with the sugar!
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness and to help create that lovely texture when creamed with the butter.
- 1 egg yolk – this adds richness and helps bind everything together, making your cookies tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – trust me, it elevates the flavor to a whole new level!
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – just a pinch to balance the sweetness; it really makes a difference.
- 1/2 cup fruit jam (your choice) – this is where the magic happens! Choose your favorite jam to fill those delightful thumbprints. Raspberry, apricot, or even a classic strawberry work like a charm!
How to Prepare Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because a hot oven ensures your cookies bake evenly and gives them that lovely golden edge we all crave. So, go ahead and set it up while you gather your ingredients!
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Now, in a mixing bowl, grab that softened butter and sugar. You’re going to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. It’s like magic! This step is crucial because it creates the perfect texture for your cookies—smooth and rich. I like to use an electric mixer for this, but if you’re feeling strong, a good old wooden spoon works too. Just make sure you really beat it well!
Adding Egg Yolk and Vanilla
Next up, it’s time to add the egg yolk and vanilla extract. This is where the flavor really starts to shine! The egg yolk adds richness, while the vanilla brings that warm, inviting aroma. Mix it in until everything’s well combined. Trust me, your kitchen is going to smell heavenly!
Combining Dry Ingredients
Now, let’s add the flour and salt. Gently stir them into your wet mixture until just combined. You don’t want to overmix here—just enough to bring it all together. The dough should be soft and a bit sticky, which is perfect for shaping later. Don’t worry if it looks a little crumbly at first; it will come together!
Shaping the Dough
Time to get your hands a little floury! Take small portions of dough and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them some space to spread out. I usually fit around 12 cookies per sheet, but it depends on your pan size!
Creating Indentations
Now for the fun part! Use your thumb (or the back of a spoon if you prefer) to make a nice little indentation in the center of each dough ball. Press down firmly, but not too hard—you want a good well for the jam without breaking the cookie. This is where all that fruity goodness is going to go!
Filling with Fruit Jam
Speaking of jam, now it’s time to fill those thumbprint indents! Spoon in your choice of fruit jam, filling it generously. Don’t be shy; a little extra jam never hurt anyone! This is what makes these cookies so special and festive. Just imagine how colorful and delicious they’ll look!
Baking the Cookies
Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and let those cookies bake for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are lightly golden and the tops look set. Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They’re going to smell amazing, and you might just want to sneak a taste while they’re still warm—go ahead, I won’t judge!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your *Christmas thumbprint cookies* turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips that I’ve picked up over the years:
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on those cookies as they bake! The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers will look set but still soft. If you bake them too long, they can dry out—nobody wants that!
- Let Them Cool: After baking, it’s tempting to dive right in, but let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes first. This helps them firm up a bit before you transfer them to a wire rack. Patience is key!
- Experiment with Jams: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your jam choices! Mixing different flavors can lead to delightful surprises. Try a mix of raspberry and apricot for a festive twist!
- Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully! Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping and baking. This makes holiday baking even easier!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking the most delightful thumbprint cookies that will impress everyone at your holiday gatherings!
Nutritional Information
Now, before you indulge in these delicious *Christmas thumbprint cookies*, let’s take a moment to talk about the nutritional info. Keep in mind that nutrition can vary a bit based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider this an estimate rather than an exact science!
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 1g
So go ahead and enjoy these festive treats! Just remember, moderation is key, especially when there are so many amazing holiday goodies around. Happy baking!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of jam?
Absolutely! One of the best things about *Christmas thumbprint cookies* is their versatility. You can use any fruit jam you love! Raspberry, apricot, strawberry, or even a zesty lemon curd can work wonders. Feel free to mix and match flavors for a fun twist. Just remember, the sweeter the jam, the more delightful the cookie!
How should I store the cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and tasty, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their lovely texture for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper and pop them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll thaw beautifully when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
How long do these cookies last?
Your *Christmas thumbprint cookies* will stay fresh for about a week when stored properly at room temperature. If you freeze them, they can last for up to two months! Just make sure to let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before diving in. Trust me, they’ll taste just as delightful as when they were freshly baked!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Appeal: These cookies are not just delicious; they bring a pop of color and cheer to any holiday gathering, making them a festive treat everyone will adore!
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up a batch without any fuss!
- Customizable: You can switch up the jams to match your taste or the season, creating endless flavor combinations that keep things exciting!
- Deliciously Irresistible: The soft, buttery cookie combined with sweet, fruity jam is a flavor match made in heaven—once you start, you won’t be able to stop at just one!
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies make great gifts or treats to share with friends and family, spreading joy and sweetness during the holiday season!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve baked up a batch of those delightful *Christmas thumbprint cookies*, let’s talk about how to elevate your cookie experience! These little gems are perfect on their own, but pairing them with a few special touches can turn them into a memorable treat for your holiday gatherings.
- Hot Beverage Pairings: Serve your cookies alongside a warm cup of spiced apple cider or a rich hot chocolate. The cozy flavors will complement the sweetness of the cookies beautifully, making for a delightful afternoon snack or dessert.
- Cheese Platter: For a fun twist, why not add them to a cheese platter? The buttery cookie and fruity jam pair excellently with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese. It’s a sweet and savory combo that guests will love!
- Ice Cream Delight: Craving something indulgent? Try serving your thumbprint cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or even a scoop of fruit sorbet. The warm cookie and cold ice cream create a delicious contrast that’s sure to impress!
- Festive Dessert Table: If you’re hosting a holiday party, include these cookies on a dessert table filled with other treats like brownies, peppermint bark, or mini cheesecakes. They’ll not only taste great but also add a lovely pop of color to your spread!
- Gift Them: Finally, consider packaging some of your *Christmas thumbprint cookies* in cute boxes or jars with festive ribbons. They make perfect homemade gifts for neighbors, friends, or anyone who could use a little holiday cheer!
With these serving ideas, your cookies will be the star of the show, bringing joy and deliciousness to your holiday celebrations! Enjoy every bite and the smiles they bring!
Print
Christmas Thumbprint Cookies: 7 Reasons to Indulge Today
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Christmas thumbprint cookies are festive and delicious, filled with your favorite jam.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup fruit jam (your choice)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar.
- Add egg yolk and vanilla extract; mix well.
- Stir in flour and salt until combined.
- Shape dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Make an indentation in each ball with your thumb.
- Fill each indentation with fruit jam.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- Use different jams for variety.
- These cookies freeze well.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: christmas thumbprint cookies
