Cranberry Pecan Thumbprint Cookies
These cranberry pecan thumbprint cookies are a delightful holiday treat. With a buttery pecan base and a tart cranberry filling, they are perfect for Christmas baking.
Equipment
- 1 Baking Sheet lined with parchment paper
- 1 Electric Mixer
- 1 Mixing Bowl large
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce or cranberry jam
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Use a tablespoon to scoop dough portions and roll them into balls. Place on a lined baking sheet, spacing them apart. Create an indentation in the center of each with your thumb or a small spoon.
- Fill each indentation with cranberry sauce or jam, taking care not to overfill.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving
- Once cooled, serve the cookies on a festive platter. They pair well with coffee or tea.
Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to three months.
Notes
Pro Tips: Ensure butter is softened for easy mixing. Avoid overfilling indentations to prevent overflow during baking.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Substitute cranberry jam with raspberry or apricot jam.
How to Serve: Serve on a decorative platter with a warm beverage.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer freshness.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate, then bake fresh when ready to serve.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Substitute cranberry jam with raspberry or apricot jam.
How to Serve: Serve on a decorative platter with a warm beverage.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer freshness.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate, then bake fresh when ready to serve.