- **Jam or preserves** (raspberry, strawberry, or apricot) - ½ cup (for the thumbprint filling)
- **Optional: Nuts** (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) - ½ cup (finely chopped, for rolling the dough)
**Pro Tip:** Use high-quality **jam** or **homemade preserves** for the best flavor. For a festive touch, try **holiday-themed jams** like cranberry or spiced apple.
This recipe is perfect for **holiday baking**, **Christmas cookies**, or **easy dessert ideas**. Don’t forget to include keywords like **thumbprint cookie recipe**, **classic baked goods**, and **homemade cookies** in your content for better SEO performance!
Advertisement
Steps
# How to Make Delicious Ladies' Thumbprint Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ladies' thumbprint cookies are a classic baked treat, perfect for holidays, tea parties, or as a sweet snack. These buttery, crumbly cookies are filled with jam or chocolate, making them a crowd-pleaser. Follow this detailed guide to create your own batch of **ladies' thumbprint cookies** at home.
---
## **Ingredients for Ladies' Thumbprint Cookies**
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup jam (raspberry, strawberry, or apricot work well)
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
---
## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **Step 1: Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
---
### **Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar**
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the **softened butter** and **granulated sugar** using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
---
### **Step 3: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla**
Add the **egg yolks** and **vanilla extract** to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until fully combined and smooth.
---
### **Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients**
In a separate bowl, whisk together the **all-purpose flour** and **salt**. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
---
### **Step 5: Shape the Cookies**
Roll the dough into **1-inch balls** and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to gently press an indentation into the center of each cookie.
---
### **Step 6: Fill with Jam**
Spoon a small amount of **jam** (about ½ teaspoon) into each indentation. For variety, you can use different flavors of jam or even melted chocolate.
---
### **Step 7: Bake the Cookies**
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for **12-15 minutes**, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies should remain tender.
---
### **Step 8: Cool and Serve**
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra touch, dust the cookies with **powdered sugar** before serving.
---
## **Tips for Perfect Ladies' Thumbprint Cookies**
- Use room-temperature butter for easier mixing.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it’s too soft to handle.
- Experiment with different fillings like Nutella, lemon curd, or caramel.
---
## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
These **ladies' thumbprint cookies** are easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Their buttery texture and sweet filling make them a timeless favorite. Share them with friends and family, or enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee.
---
By following this guide, you’ll create **homemade thumbprint cookies** that are sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media using hashtags like #ThumbprintCookies and #BakingAtHome!