Coconut Thumbprint Cookies with Pineapple and Apricot Preserve Recipe
Introduction
Coconut Thumbprint Cookies with Pineapple and Apricot Preserve are a delightful treat that brings together the rich sweetness of tropical flavors and the comforting essence of homemade preserves. Whether itโs for a festive celebration or simply a cozy tea time, these thumbprint cookies are sure to brighten your day. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its taste but also in the joy of creating them. Perfect for family involvement, especially with kids, these cookies become a fun project, combining the joy of baking with the delicious reward of homemade goodness. The homemade pineapple and apricot preserves add an extra layer of charm, making these thumbprint cookies a unique and flavorful experience.
Ingredients
Pineapple Preserve
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pineapple | 1 |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
Apricot Preserve
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dried Apricots | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
Thumbprint Cookies
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1 cup |
| Butter (Salted), softened | 100 grams |
| Caster Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Baking Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Vanilla Extract | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh Coconut, grated | 1 cup |
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 120 minutes
Instructions
Pineapple Preserve
- Start by peeling the pineapple and grating its flesh.
- In a saucepan, combine the grated pineapple, juice, and water. Bring this mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, continue to cook for about 30 minutes, allowing the pineapple to soften.
- Add the sugar and lemon juice, and cook for an additional 25-35 minutes until the preserve reaches a thick jam-like consistency.
- Let the preserve cool before transferring it into sterile, dry bottles. Store in a cool, dry place.
Apricot Preserve
- Finely chop the dried apricots and place them in a saucepan.
- Add water and cook the apricots until they are soft and fully cooked.
- Stir in the sugar and lemon juice, and continue to cook until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency.
- Allow the preserve to cool completely before transferring it to a sterile, dry bottle. Store in a cool, dry place.
Thumbprint Cookies
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the softened butter and caster sugar until the mixture turns pale yellow and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and stir to combine.
- Sift the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder into a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts. Whisk until just combined, being careful not to overmix the dough.
- Once the dough is ready, cover it with cling film and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm it up.
- After the dough has chilled, take 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into small balls. Use your thumb to make a well in the center of each cookie.
- Gently roll the cookies in freshly grated coconut, ensuring they are fully coated. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Fill the center of half the cookies with pineapple preserve and the remaining half with apricot preserve.
- Refrigerate the cookies for 20 minutes before baking.
- Preheat the oven to 150ยฐC (300ยฐF).
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 17-20 minutes, or until the coconut coating is golden and the edges are lightly browned.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to sit on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container, and enjoy within a week.
Allergen Information
- Contains gluten (from the all-purpose flour).
- Contains dairy (from the butter).
- Contains coconut.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Not suitable for those with gluten, dairy, or coconut allergies.
Advice
For the best flavor, ensure your preserves reach the perfect jam consistency before filling the cookies. The coconut coating provides a delightful crunch, so make sure itโs applied generously. These cookies are also a great way to use up any homemade jams or preserves you have on hand, offering a versatile way to get creative in the kitchen.
Conclusion
Coconut Thumbprint Cookies with Pineapple and Apricot Preserve are the perfect combination of sweetness, crunch, and tangy fruit flavors. Whether youโre baking for a special occasion or simply craving a delicious snack, these cookies are sure to please everyone. The fun of creating them, paired with the joy of savoring homemade preserves, makes this recipe a memorable treat for all ages. Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of tea or a glass of milk for a delightful moment of indulgence.
