Thumbprint cookies are a soft but firm cookie with a jam-filled center that are deliciously popular, especially during the holidays.
Ingredients
3 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour
1 1/3 cups unsalted butter softened (not melted)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup orange juice
1 large egg yolk
Preserves the flavors of your choice
Instructions
Cream of butter and sugar, add the egg yolk, and then slowly add the orange juice.
Slowly add the flour until it is mixed.
Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Measure dough in level teaspoons to ensure uniform size. Roll the balls in your hands to smooth them, place them on a cookie sheet.
Use your thumb or index finger to gently press the center of the cookie, forming a slit. Bake for 10 minutes.
Remove from oven, fill slits with preserves, lemon or lime curd, jam or even apple butter. Return to the oven and bake 5-6 minutes more, do not let them brown.
Cool on wire racks. Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.