Save to Pinterest Delicate, buttery thumbprint cookies with a bright citrus filling—a festive treat perfect for both Hanukkah and Christmas celebrations.
I first made these cookies to celebrate the holidays with friends and family. Their soft texture and tangy center became an instant favorite at our desserts table, making every gathering a bit more special.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (225 g), softened
- Granulated sugar: 2/3 cup (135 g)
- Egg yolk: 1 large
- Pure vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
- Kosher salt: 1/4 tsp
- Fresh orange juice: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Fresh lemon juice: 2 tbsp
- Fresh lime juice: 1 tbsp
- Egg yolks: 2 large (for citrus curd)
- Granulated sugar (curd): 1/3 cup (65 g)
- Unsalted butter (curd): 3 tbsp (42 g), cubed
- Finely grated citrus zest: 1/2 tsp (lemon, lime, or orange)
- Powdered sugar: 1/4 cup (30 g), for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Citrus Curd:
- Whisk orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, egg yolks, sugar, and citrus zest in a small saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from heat and whisk in butter until smooth. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and chill until set.
- Make the Cookie Dough:
- Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in egg yolk and vanilla until smooth. Add flour and salt, mixing just until a dough forms.
- Shape and Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, place 2 inches apart on sheets, and press the center with your thumb. Bake for 10 minutes, then reinforce indentations and fill with citrus curd. Return to oven for 5 minutes until edges are barely golden.
- Cool and Finish:
- Cool cookies on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
Save to Pinterest We always bake these cookies together as a family, sharing stories while rolling the dough and waiting for that citrusy aroma to fill our kitchen. Every year, their festive look and zesty taste bring laughter and joy to our celebrations.
Required Tools
Electric mixer, mixing bowls, small saucepan, whisk, baking sheets, parchment paper, wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, wheat (gluten), and dairy (butter). Always check butter and other ingredient labels for hidden allergens if catering to special diets.
Nutritional Information
Per cookie: 110 calories, 6 g total fat, 13 g carbohydrates, 1 g protein
Save to Pinterest Make these cookies ahead to brighten your next holiday gathering. Their refreshing filling and soft buttery crumb will win everyone over in just one bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve the ideal citrus curd consistency?
Cook the citrus mixture over medium-low heat until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Whisk in butter for smoothness, then chill to set.
- → Can I use other citrus fruits for the filling?
Absolutely! Try blood orange, grapefruit, or add extra zest for varied flavor profiles and color.
- → What's a good dairy-free alternative for butter?
Plant-based butter can be used in both cookie dough and curd to accommodate dairy-free diets.
- → How should I store these cookies for best freshness?
Keep cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they’ll stay fresh and soft for up to five days.
- → How do I create the thumbprint shape evenly?
Press your thumb or the back of a spoon into the center of each dough ball before baking. If needed, reinforce indentations after initial baking.
- → Are these cookies suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. Check labels for allergens if catering to dietary restrictions.