πͺπ Apricot Thumbprint Cookies: A Delicious Treat! πͺπ
What is it?
Apricot Thumbprint Cookies are delightful, buttery cookies with a small well or “thumbprint” in the center, filled with sweet apricot jam or preserves. They are a beloved treat that combines the richness of buttery shortbread with the fruity goodness of apricot.
History:
The exact origin of Thumbprint Cookies is a bit hazy, but they are believed to have European roots, with variations found in various countries. These cookies have been a cherished part of holiday and tea-time traditions for generations, loved for their simplicity and flavor.
Components:
To make these scrumptious cookies, you’ll need:
- 1 cup of butter (softened)
- 2/3 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- A pinch of salt
- Apricot jam or preserves (or any fruit jam of your choice)
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Apricot Thumbprint Cookies:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add Yolks and Vanilla: Beat in the egg yolks and vanilla extract until well combined.
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Mix in Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and a pinch of salt to the wet mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
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Shape Dough: Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet.
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Make Thumbprints: Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to create a well in the center of each cookie.
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Fill with Jam: Spoon a small amount of apricot jam (or your chosen fruit jam) into each thumbprint well.
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Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
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Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Optional Dusting: Once the cookies are cool, you can dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare Apricot Thumbprint Cookies typically ranges from 45 minutes to 1 hour, including both preparation and baking time. It may vary slightly depending on your baking experience and the size of the batch.
These cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying as a sweet snack with a cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy baking and indulging in these delightful treats! πͺππ
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Apricot Thumbprint Cookies:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 100-120 calories per cookie (varies based on size)
- Total Fat: 6-8 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4-5 grams
- Cholesterol: 20-25 mg
- Sodium: 30-40 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10-12 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 0.2-0.5 grams
- Sugars: 5-7 grams
- Protein: 1-2 grams
Health Information:
- These cookies are relatively high in calories and fat, primarily due to the butter used in the recipe.
- They are considered a treat or indulgence and should be enjoyed in moderation.
- The apricot jam or preserves add sweetness and some vitamin C, but they also contribute to the sugar content.
- While these cookies are not a significant source of fiber or protein, they can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
Remember that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used, so it’s essential to be mindful of your serving size and overall dietary intake. Enjoy these cookies as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack for a balanced approach to your diet. πͺππ
