Get ready to transform your kitchen into a warm, inviting bakery with these irresistible Apple Pie Thumbprint Cookies that combine the classic charm of homemade cookies with the nostalgic flavor of apple pie. Imagine biting into a buttery, soft cookie with a perfect pocket of sweet, spiced apple filling that will transport you straight to grandma's kitchen. These delightful treats are not just cookies – they're a miniature dessert experience that promises to become your new favorite holiday or everyday indulgence!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup apple pie filling
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cinnamon to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. The dough should be smooth and easily moldable.
- Using clean hands or a cookie scoop, roll the dough into 1-inch balls, placing them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Gently press your thumb or the back of a small spoon into the center of each cookie to create a well for the apple pie filling.
- Carefully spoon a small amount of apple pie filling into the center of each thumbprint, ensuring not to overfill.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, the cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Make sure your butter is truly softened but not melted for the perfect cookie texture.
- Use a measuring spoon or the back of a small spoon to create uniform thumbprint wells in your cookies.
- Don't overfill the apple pie filling – a small amount goes a long way to prevent overflow during baking.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a light dusting of powdered sugar after the cookies cool completely.
- If your dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before shaping to make it easier to handle.
- Use a high-quality apple pie filling or homemade filling for the most authentic flavor.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup and maintain their crisp texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
