Soft, buttery, and filled with a sweet surprise, Land O Lakes Thumbprint Cookies have remained a timeless favorite for generations of home bakers. These delicate treats, known for their simple preparation and elegant presentation, are the perfect combination of tender shortbread and fruity jam. Whether you’re baking them for the holidays, a special occasion, or just because you love cookies, thumbprint cookies bring a sense of nostalgia and homemade warmth to every bite. Crafted with Land O Lakes butter, their rich texture and flavor make them stand out among other traditional cookie recipes.
What Are Land O Lakes Thumbprint Cookies?
Land O Lakes Thumbprint Cookies are a type of shortbread cookie made with high-quality butter, typically filled with fruit preserves or jam in the center. The name ‘thumbprint’ comes from the process of gently pressing a thumb or spoon into the dough ball before baking, creating a small well to hold the filling. This classic cookie has a crisp edge, a soft center, and a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
The Key Ingredient: Land O Lakes Butter
One of the standout features of this cookie is the use of Land O Lakes butter. Known for its rich, creamy taste and consistency, Land O Lakes butter gives the cookie dough a luxurious smoothness and a deep, buttery flavor. Using quality butter is crucial in a recipe like this, where the ingredient list is short and each component plays a major role in the final product.
Why These Cookies Are So Popular
Land O Lakes Thumbprint Cookies have gained popularity for several reasons. They are easy to make, visually appealing, and highly customizable. The versatility of the filling allows bakers to use their favorite jams such as raspberry, apricot, strawberry, or even lemon curd for a unique twist. These cookies are also a popular choice for cookie exchanges, dessert platters, and festive gatherings.
Perfect for Holiday Baking
These cookies are especially popular during the holiday season. Their festive look often dusted with powdered sugar or decorated with a glaze makes them a perfect addition to any Christmas cookie tray. They are simple enough to make with kids but elegant enough to impress guests at a party.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making Land O Lakes Thumbprint Cookies doesn’t require anything complicated. Here’s what you typically need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) Land O Lakes Unsalted Butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional but recommended)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup fruit preserves or jam (any flavor you like)
Optional Ingredients
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Chopped nuts for rolling the dough balls
- Drizzle glaze made with powdered sugar and milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cream the Butter and Sugar
Begin by creaming together the softened Land O Lakes butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is essential for incorporating air into the dough and achieving the right cookie texture.
2. Add Extracts
Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract. The almond extract enhances the flavor, giving the cookies a nutty aroma that pairs well with fruity jam fillings.
3. Mix in the Flour
Gradually add the flour to the mixture, stirring until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too dry, a tiny splash of milk can help, though it’s usually not necessary.
4. Shape the Dough
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. You can leave them plain or roll them in finely chopped nuts for a bit of extra crunch.
5. Create the Thumbprint
Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently press an indentation into the center of each dough ball. Be careful not to press all the way through just enough to hold the jam.
6. Fill with Jam
Spoon a small amount of jam into each indentation. Don’t overfill, as the jam may spill over during baking.
7. Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Results
- Make sure your butter is properly softened for easy mixing and better texture.
- If using seedless jam, you can heat it slightly before filling to make it easier to spoon.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough for 15-30 minutes if your kitchen is warm it helps prevent spreading.
- Use a consistent size for dough balls to ensure even baking.
Storage and Shelf Life
Land O Lakes Thumbprint Cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. If you plan to freeze them, it’s best to do so without any glaze or powdered sugar; those can be added after thawing for best appearance and flavor.
Variations to Try
One of the joys of thumbprint cookies is how adaptable they are. Here are a few fun variations:
- Chocolate Lovers: Swap jam with a dollop of chocolate ganache or Nutella.
- Citrus Twist: Use lemon curd or orange marmalade for a zesty flavor.
- Glazed Finish: Drizzle with a light powdered sugar glaze after baking and cooling.
- Nut Coating: Roll the dough balls in crushed pecans or walnuts before baking.
Why Choose Homemade?
While thumbprint cookies are available at many bakeries and stores, making them at home provides a level of freshness and customization that store-bought versions can’t match. Using Land O Lakes butter ensures a rich flavor and smooth texture that elevates even the most basic cookie recipes. Plus, baking at home allows for creativity mix and match your favorite flavors and add personal touches to make the recipe truly your own.
Perfect for Sharing
These cookies are excellent for gifting. Wrap them in a decorative box or tin, and you’ve got a heartfelt, homemade gift that’s sure to delight. Their eye-catching appearance and irresistible taste make them ideal for birthdays, thank-yous, or holiday exchanges.
Land O Lakes Thumbprint Cookies are a simple yet elegant treat that never goes out of style. With a buttery base and a fruity center, they offer a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced home baker, this cookie recipe is a must-have in your collection. Made with premium ingredients like Land O Lakes butter, these cookies deliver reliable results and delicious taste every time. Try them once, and they may just become your new favorite cookie to bake and share.