Sparkly Apricot Rosemary Thumbprint Cookies

Sparkly Apricot Rosemary Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines the buttery goodness of a classic thumbprint cookie with a sophisticated twist of rosemary and sweet apricot jam. Rolled in sugar for a festive sparkle, these cookies are perfect for parties, gifting, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea during the holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Pairing: The combination of sweet apricot and earthy rosemary is unexpected and delicious.
• Festive Look: The sugar coating gives these cookies a dazzling, holiday-ready finish.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps with impressive results.
• Perfect for Gifting: These cookies look as good as they taste, making them ideal for gift boxes.
• Customizable: Switch up the jam or herb for endless variations.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Egg yolks
• Vanilla extract
• Fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
• Salt
• Apricot jam
• Optional: Coarse sugar for rolling

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and finely chopped rosemary.
2. Add Dry Ingredients:
   Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Chill the Dough:
   Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
4. Preheat Oven and Prepare:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Shape and Roll:
   Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in coarse sugar for a sparkly finish. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Create Thumbprints:
   Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently press an indentation into the center of each cookie.
7. Fill with Jam:
   Spoon a small amount of apricot jam into each indentation, being careful not to overfill.
8. Bake:
   Bake the cookies for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 12–14 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

Variations

• Different Herbs: Swap rosemary for thyme, lavender, or even sage for a new flavor profile.
• Jam Options: Try raspberry, strawberry, or fig jam instead of apricot.
• Nutty Addition: Add finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the dough for extra texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Citrus Touch: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a zesty twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls without jam for up to 2 months. Thaw, add jam, and bake as directed.
• Reheating: Warm cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes to refresh their texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

Yes, but use half the amount as dried rosemary is more concentrated in flavor.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking.

3. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough and using parchment paper can help cookies retain their shape.

4. What’s the best way to chop rosemary finely?

Use a sharp knife and chop the rosemary leaves into very small pieces to avoid overpowering bites.

5. Can I use other types of sugar for rolling?

Yes, sanding sugar or granulated sugar both work well for a sparkly finish.

6. How do I ensure the jam doesn’t leak out during baking?

Don’t overfill the indentations and use a thick, high-quality jam.

7. Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes, substitute butter with vegan margarine and egg yolks with flax egg or aquafaba.

8. How do I keep the cookies fresh for longer?

Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure your mixer and baking sheets are large enough to handle the increased quantities.

10. What pairs well with these cookies?

Serve them with tea, coffee, or a sparkling holiday cocktail for a festive pairing.

Conclusion

Sparkly Apricot Rosemary Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and festive flavors. With their sparkling sugar coating, buttery texture, and unique herbal notes, they’re a sophisticated twist on a classic holiday treat. Easy to make and perfect for gifting or sharing, these cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite!

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