Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Easy Iced Thumbprint Cookies Recipe to Brighten Any Occasion


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Jake
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 3 dozen cookies
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Soft, buttery shortbread cookies topped with smooth, colorful vanilla icing. These iced thumbprint cookies are perfect for any occasion โ€” festive holidays, family gatherings, or cozy weekends.


Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1ยฝ tbsp milk
  • ยฝ tsp vanilla extract
  • Food coloring (optional)


Instructions

  1. Cream butter, sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy (2โ€“3 minutes).
  2. Add flour and salt; mix just until combined. Do not overmix.
  3. Chill dough for at least 1 hour.
  4. Preheat oven to 350ยฐF and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  5. Roll dough into 1ยฝ-inch balls and arrange 1 inch apart.
  6. Press a deep thumbprint in each ball.
  7. Bake for 10 minutes, then re-press centers and bake another 6โ€“8 minutes until lightly golden.
  8. Cool completely on a wire rack.
  9. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed.
  10. Tint icing if desired, fill cookie centers, and let set overnight or chill briefly.

Notes

Chill the dough well to prevent spreading. Re-press indentations after the first bake for a perfect shape. Store iced cookies in airtight containers at room temperature up to 1 week.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American