Classic Thumbprint Cookies

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic Thumbprint Cookies.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 325°F (165°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with a silicone mat—this will help your cookies bake evenly and prevent sticking.

2. Step 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar and softened butter.

3. Step 3

   Grab a rubber spatula and mix them together until the mixture is creamy and well blended, creating a delightful base for your cookies.

4. Step 4

   Next, add in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, fine salt, and almond extract.

5. Step 5

   Stir everything together until it’s beautifully incorporated, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.

6. Step 6

   Now, it’s time to gradually mix in the all-purpose flour.

7. Step 7

   Do this gently until just combined; remember, overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them to be tender and delicious.

8. Step 8

   Using a sorbet scoop, portion out the dough into 1/2-ounce balls, which is about a tablespoon each.

9. Step 9

   Roll each ball in white sugar to give them a sweet sparkle, then roll them again between your palms to smooth them out.

10. Step 10

    Place the dough balls a few inches apart on your prepared baking sheet, and gently flatten each one with your fingers.

11. Step 11

    If you’re aiming for a jammy cookie, you can skip ahead to the next step.

12. Step 12

    For a delightful shortbread-style treat, use your finger or the end of a thick wooden spoon dusted with powdered sugar to create a little well in each ball.

13. Step 13

    Fill these wells with your favorite fruit jam, and give the baking sheet a gentle tap against the counter to help the jam settle nicely.

14. Step 14

    Pop the cookies into your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the tops are just barely blonde and the bottoms have a lovely golden hue.

15. Step 15

    Once they’re done, let them cool completely on a wire rack—this is the hardest part, but trust me, it’s worth the wait! While the cookies cool, let’s whip up some icing.

16. Step 16

    In a small bowl, add powdered sugar and gradually mix in milk until you achieve a consistency that holds its shape when piped.

17. Step 17

    Now comes the fun part! Pipe the icing over your cookies in a playful zigzag pattern, and let them sit for about 15 minutes before serving.

18. Step 18

    Enjoy these delightful treats with friends or family, and watch them disappear in no time!.