Simple Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies

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Delicate, buttery, and slightly tangy, these Simple Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies are the perfect melt-in-your-mouth treat for any occasion. Each cookie is a tender bite of shortbread-like dough enriched with cream cheese and crowned with a dollop of golden apricot jam. The combination of creamy richness and fruity brightness makes them a standout among traditional thumbprint cookies.

Ideal for holiday platters, afternoon tea, or just a cozy snack, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious. A dusting of powdered sugar gives them a snow-kissed finish, while the jam center glistens like amber, making them irresistible both to look at and to eat.

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Ingredients for Simple Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup apricot jam or preserves
• Optional: powdered sugar, for dusting

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Simple Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and promote even baking.

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Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth, fluffy, and fully combined—about 2-3 minutes.

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Step 3: Add Sugar and Vanilla

Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Continue beating until light and creamy, ensuring the sugar is fully incorporated.

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Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the bowl. Mix on low speed or by hand just until the dough comes together. Do not overmix—this helps keep the cookies tender.

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Step 5: Shape the Dough

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into smooth balls using your hands. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1-2 inches apart.

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Step 6: Create the Thumbprint Indentation

Using your thumb or the back of a ½ teaspoon measuring spoon, gently press a well into the center of each dough ball. Be careful not to press too deep.

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Step 7: Fill with Apricot Jam

Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of apricot jam into each indentation. Avoid overfilling to prevent overflow during baking.

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Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 12–14 minutes or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. The centers should remain soft.

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Step 9: Cool and Optional Dusting

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cool, optionally dust with powdered sugar for a pretty finish.

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Storage Instructions

To keep your Simple Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies fresh and delicious:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Refrigerator: For slightly longer freshness (up to 1 week), refrigerate them in a sealed container.
• Freezer: Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

For best texture, avoid stacking cookies with jam centers touching—use parchment paper between layers if needed.

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Estimated Nutrition (per cookie)

Estimates based on a yield of ~30 cookies.

• Calories: ~110
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 30mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 13g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 1g

Note: Values may vary depending on specific brands and measurements used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of jam?

Yes, raspberry, strawberry, or even lemon curd work beautifully. Just make sure the consistency isn’t too runny.

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2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. The dough can be chilled for up to 2 days or frozen for up to a month. Let it soften slightly before shaping.

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3. Why did my cookies spread too much?

Over-softened butter or warm dough may cause spreading. Chill the dough before baking if needed.

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4. Can I skip the cream cheese?

Cream cheese gives the dough richness and a slight tang, but you can replace it with more butter if necessary. The texture may be slightly different.

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5. How do I prevent the jam from leaking out?

Avoid overfilling and make a deep enough well for the jam. Chilling the shaped dough before baking can also help.

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6. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Texture may vary, but the flavor should still be great.

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7. Are these cookies good for gifting?

Definitely! Their attractive appearance and long shelf life make them perfect for holiday tins or cookie swaps.

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8. What’s the best way to dust with powdered sugar?

Use a fine mesh sieve once cookies are fully cooled to avoid melting the sugar into the jam.

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