Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies –

### Instructions for Making Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies

#### Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
1. **Cream the butter and sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, cream together **1 cup of softened butter** and **¾ cup of granulated sugar** using an electric mixer or by hand with a wooden spoon. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

2. **Add the vanilla**: Stir in **1 teaspoon of vanilla extract**, ensuring it’s well combined.

3. **Mix the dry ingredients**: In a separate bowl, whisk together **2 cups of all-purpose flour** and **¼ teaspoon of salt**. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.

4. **Chill the dough**: Once the dough is formed, divide it into two equal portions and wrap each portion in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent the dough from spreading too much during baking and ensures that it holds its shape.

#### Step 2: Shape the Cookies
1. **Preheat the oven**: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. **Form the cookie dough balls**: After the dough has chilled, roll it into tablespoon-sized balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

3. **Create the thumbprint**: Gently press your thumb into the center of each dough ball to create a well for the raspberry jam. Be careful not to press all the way through. If the dough cracks a little, simply pinch it together.

#### Step 3: Add the Raspberry Jam
1. **Fill with jam**: Spoon **½ teaspoon of raspberry jam** into the indentation of each cookie. Be sure not to overfill, as the jam can spread while baking.

2. **Optional: Add a garnish**: If desired, you can sprinkle a few chopped nuts, like pistachios or almonds, around the edge of the thumbprint to add texture and flavor. This is an optional step but can elevate the look of your cookies.

#### Step 4: Bake the Cookies
1. **Bake the cookies**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about **12-15 minutes**, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven and the size of your cookies.

2. **Cool the cookies**: Once the cookies are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

#### Step 5: Optional Finishing Touch
1. **Dust with powdered sugar**: Once the cookies have cooled, you can dust them lightly with **powdered sugar** for an elegant touch. This step is optional but adds a pretty finish to the cookies.

### Tips for the Best Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies

1. **Chill the dough**: Chilling the dough before shaping helps the cookies keep their form and prevents them from spreading too much in the oven. It also makes the dough easier to work with.

2. **Use high-quality jam**: Since the raspberry jam is the star of the show, using a high-quality jam or preserve will make a noticeable difference in flavor. You can also try making your own homemade raspberry jam for an extra special touch.

3. **Avoid overfilling the thumbprint**: When adding the jam, be careful not to overfill it, as the jam can bubble over while baking. Just a small dollop is enough.

4. **Use different jams**: While raspberry is a classic, you can get creative with other fruit jams, such as strawberry, blueberry, apricot, or even lemon curd. The dough is versatile and pairs well with many different fruit flavors.

5. **Make ahead**: If you’re preparing these cookies ahead of time, you can freeze the dough. Roll it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a zip-top bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just add the jam and bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

### Why You Should Make Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies

Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies are the perfect treat to make when you’re craving something simple, yet elegant. They are buttery, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying with their jam-filled center. These cookies are ideal for holidays, gift-giving, or any occasion where you want to impress guests with a homemade dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, **Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies** are sure to become a family favorite. They are timeless, versatile, and a true crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy the sweet, buttery goodness of these delightful cookies!