Thumbprint Cookies

Absolutely! Thumbprint Cookies are classic, buttery cookies with a sweet jam center—perfect for holidays or anytime baking. Here’s a reliable, bakery-style recipe:

Classic Thumbprint Cookies

Ingredients (makes about 24 cookies):

• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened

• 2/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg yolk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup jam or preserves (raspberry, strawberry, apricot, or cherry work great)

Optional coatings:

• Extra sugar for rolling

• Finely chopped nuts or coconut

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven:

   • 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Make the dough:

   • Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

   • Mix in egg yolk and vanilla.

   • Add flour and salt; mix until dough comes together.

3. Shape cookies:

   • Roll dough into 1-inch balls.

   • Optional: roll in sugar or chopped nuts.

   • Place on baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

4. Make the thumbprint:

   • Press your thumb (or the back of a spoon) gently into the center of each cookie.

5. Fill:

   • Spoon about ½ teaspoon jam into each indentation.

6. Bake:

   • Bake 12–14 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.

   • Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Tips for Perfect Thumbprint Cookies:

• If the dough cracks, gently press it back together with your fingers.

• Slightly warm thick jam so it fills smoothly.

• For extra richness, brush cookies with a little egg white before rolling in nuts.

Variations:

• Chocolate Thumbprints: Fill with chocolate ganache or Nutella.

• Lemon Thumbprints: Use lemon curd instead of jam.

• Holiday Style: Drizzle cooled cookies with powdered sugar glaze.

If you’d like, I can also share a soft bakery-style version, a gluten-free option, or chocolate thumbprint cookies