Why Make This Recipe
Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies are a festive treat that brings joy to any holiday gathering. They are not only easy to make but also delicious and visually appealing. The combination of buttery cookie dough and fruity jam creates a delightful bite that everyone will love. Plus, making these cookies is a fun activity for the whole family during the holiday season.
How to Make Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup jam or preserves (e.g., raspberry or strawberry)
- 1/2 cup 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 smooth.
- Mix in the flour and salt until just combined, then add the vanilla extract.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Make an indentation in each ball with your thumb.
- Fill each indentation with a small amount of jam or preserves.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
How to Serve Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
Serve these delightful cookies on a festive platter during holiday parties or family gatherings. You can pair them with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy treat. They make excellent gifts when packed in cute boxes or tins.
How to Store Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to stay fresh longer, you can refrigerate them. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Tips to Make Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Use a spoon to help make the thumbprint indentation if your thumb is too big or if you prefer a more consistent shape.
- Feel free to experiment with different flavors of jam or preserves to find your favorite combination.
Serving Ideas
For a festive touch, you can decorate the cookies with colorful sprinkles or edible glitter after dusting with powdered sugar. You could also serve them with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
Final Thoughts
Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies are a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season. With their lovely appearance and delightful taste, they are sure to be a hit with friends and family. Make a batch today and enjoy the smiles on everyone’s faces!
FAQs
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
2. How can I make the cookies more colorful?
You can add food coloring to the jam before filling the cookies, or use different colored jams for a festive look.
3. Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies. Just make sure they are completely cooled and stored in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Mix in the flour and salt until just combined, then add the vanilla extract.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Make an indentation in each ball with your thumb.
- Fill each indentation with a small amount of jam or preserves.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool and dust with powdered sugar before serving.