Thumbprint Cookies with Icing Recipe

Thumbprint cookies with icing are soft, buttery cookies with a slight crisp on the outside and a delightful, sweet icing-filled center. These classic treats are perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply as an everyday dessert. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and customizable flavors, they are a must-bake for cookie lovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and buttery – The perfect balance of crisp edges and a tender center.
• Easy to customize – Use different icing flavors or food coloring for festive variations.
• Great for any occasion – Perfect for holidays, parties, or as a simple homemade treat.
• Simple ingredients – Uses pantry staples you likely already have.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookies:

• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Egg yolk
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Salt

For the Icing:

• Powdered sugar
• Milk
• Vanilla or almond extract
• Food coloring (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter and sugar – In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add egg yolk and vanilla – Mix until well combined.
4. Incorporate dry ingredients – Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Shape the cookies – Roll dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Make indentations – Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a small well in the center of each cookie.
7. Bake – Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely before adding icing.
8. Make the icing – Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. If desired, add food coloring for different icing shades.
9. Fill the cookies – Spoon or pipe icing into the center of each cookie. Let set before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 12 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Lemon Thumbprint Cookies – Add lemon zest to the dough and use lemon icing.
• Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies – Replace ¼ cup of flour with cocoa powder.
• Nutty Cookies – Roll dough balls in crushed nuts before baking.
• Festive Cookies – Use different icing colors for holiday-themed cookies.
• Jam-Filled Thumbprints – Swap icing for fruit preserves for a classic version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to a week for extra freshness.
• Freezing: Freeze un-iced cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw and ice before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought icing?

Yes! Store-bought icing works well if you’re short on time.

How do I keep my cookies from spreading?

Chill the dough for 15 minutes before baking to help retain shape.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the cookies a day in advance and ice them before serving.

What’s the best way to fill the indentations evenly?

Use a piping bag or a small spoon for more precise filling.

Can I use almond extract instead of vanilla?

Absolutely! Almond extract adds a delicious nutty flavor.

Why did my cookies crack?

This can happen if the dough is too dry—make sure to cream the butter and sugar well.

Can I use colored icing for special occasions?

Yes! Add food coloring to the icing to match any holiday or event.

Should I refrigerate the dough before baking?

It’s not necessary, but chilling can help the cookies hold their shape better.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Simply double the ingredients and bake in batches.

How do I make icing thicker or thinner?

Add more powdered sugar for thicker icing or more milk for a thinner consistency.

Conclusion

Thumbprint cookies with icing are a simple yet elegant treat that can be customized for any occasion. With their buttery texture and sweet, creamy icing centers, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Bake a batch today and enjoy these delightful cookies with a cup of coffee or tea!

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