Holiday Thumbprint Cookies

Prep: 20 min Cook: 8 min Serves: 64 Cuisine: American

Holiday Thumbprint Cookies are delightful treats featuring buttery dough, sliced almonds, and a sweet jam center, perfect for festive gatherings and cookie exchanges.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 4 1/2 cups flour
  • 1 cup butter
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla
  • dash of baking soda
  • 2 cups sliced almonds

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Grease baking sheets.
  3. Mix together sugar, butter, eggs, flour, vanilla, and soda until well combined.
  4. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces.
  5. Form each section into an 8-inch roll.
  6. Roll each piece into sliced almonds and slice into 16 cookies.
  7. Place cookies 2 inches apart on greased sheets.
  8. Make an indentation with the back of a spoon in the center of each cookie to hold jam.
  9. Fill the indentations with your favorite jam.
  10. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 6 to 8 minutes until golden.

Tips & Substitutions

For a nut-free version, substitute sliced almonds with finely chopped oats or crushed graham crackers. Ensure the dough is well-chilled before shaping to prevent spreading. If you want extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. You can also experiment with different jams, such as raspberry or apricot, for unique tastes.

Serving Suggestions

These thumbprint cookies are perfect as a holiday treat or dessert alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They also pair beautifully with Bonnie'S Blackberry Pudding for a delightful dessert platter. Consider serving them on a festive dessert tray for gatherings, or package them as gifts for friends and family.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Holiday Thumbprint Cookies contains roughly 2567 calories, with 26g protein, 292g carbohydrates, and 141g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (54% of the Daily Value), protein (51% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1011mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).

2567 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 25.7g 51% DV
Total Fat 141.3g 100% DV
Carbs 291.8g 100% DV
Fiber 7.1g 25% DV
Sugar 3.2g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1010.6mg 44% DV
Potassium 1964.2mg 42% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 198.9mcg 22% DV
Vitamin C 45.1mg 50% DV
Calcium 699.7mg 54% DV
Iron 7.8mg 43% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of nut for the cookies?

Absolutely! You can replace sliced almonds with other nuts like pecans or walnuts. Just make sure to chop them finely before rolling the dough. This variation can add different flavors and textures to your thumbprint cookies.

What type of jam works best for filling the cookies?

You can use any jam you prefer, but popular choices include strawberry, raspberry, or apricot. Each jam adds its unique flavor profile, so choose one that complements your taste. Homemade jam can also elevate the cookie experience!

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before shaping and baking the cookies.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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