Classic Nutty Thumbprint Cookies

📜 Collection: UK2 | ✍️ Attribution: Unknown | 📂 Category: Desserts A rich and buttery shortbread cookie packed with finely chopped nuts for a dense, melt-in-your-mouth texture. These simple thumbprints are finished with a sweet jelly or candied cherry center.


Prep TimeCook TimeInactive / Chill TimeYield / Servings
15 mins30 minsNone2-3 dozen

🔪 Key Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • electric mixer
  • cookie sheet

Ingredients

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
2 Sticks (1 Cup)Buttersoftened
1 CupCake Flournone
8 Tbsp (1/2 Cup)Sugarnone
1 TspVanillanone
1 1/2 to 2 CupsNutsfinely chopped
As neededJelly or Cherriesfor filling

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. In a large bowl, cream the 2 sticks butter and 8 tbsp sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Stir in the 1 tsp vanilla.
  3. On low speed, gradually add the 1 cup cake flour and mix until a soft dough forms.
  4. By hand, stir in the 1 1/2 to 2 cups nuts.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

  1. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased cookie sheet.
  2. Use your thumb to press an indentation into the center of each ball of dough.
  3. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes until the cookies are set and the edges are lightly golden.
  4. Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet, then fill the indentations with jelly or a piece of candied cherry.

💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months.


Original Recipe Scan

Original Handwritten Card