Lemon Blueberry Thumbprint Cookies

Why This Recipe Works:
This recipe combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries in a delightful thumbprint cookie. The buttery cookie base complements the fruity filling, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup blueberry preserves or jam

How to Make This Recipe:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, salt, and lemon zest to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
7. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of blueberry preserves or jam into each indentation.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh blueberries instead of preserves or jam?
A: Fresh blueberries may release too much moisture during baking, affecting the texture of the cookies. It’s best to use preserves or jam for the filling.

Q: How long do these cookies stay fresh?
A: Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh for up to one week.

Expert Tips:

• For a stronger lemon flavor, add a little lemon juice along with the zest.
• Make sure the cookies are completely cooled before storing to prevent the filling from becoming too sticky.

How to Store This Recipe:
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness. Enjoy these delightful lemon blueberry treats as a snack or dessert!