Frequently Asked Questions
What are Festive Raspberry & Mint Thumbprint Cookies?
These are buttery holiday cookies featuring a center filled with either raspberry jam or mint jelly.
How many cookies does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields approximately 24 servings.
What temperature should I preheat the oven to?
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius.
Should I grease the cookie sheet?
No, the instructions specify using an ungreased cookie sheet.
How do I cream the butter and sugar?
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
When do I add the egg and vanilla?
Add the egg and vanilla extract after creaming the butter and sugar, then beat until smooth.
What dry ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You will need all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder.
How should I mix the dry ingredients?
Whisk the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder together in a separate bowl before adding them to the wet ingredients.
How do I combine the wet and dry ingredients?
Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
What size should I roll the dough into?
Roll the dough into small 1-inch balls.
How far apart should I place the dough balls?
Space the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the cookie sheet.
How do I make the center indentation?
Use the end of a wooden spoon or your thumb to gently press a hole into the center of each dough ball.
What are the suggested fillings for these cookies?
The recipe suggests using raspberry jam and mint jelly for a festive contrast.
How much filling do I use?
Fill each indentation with a small dollop of jam or jelly to your preference.
How long do I bake the cookies?
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes.
What is the visual cue for doneness?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden.
How should I cool the cookies initially?
Allow the cookies to cool on the cookie sheet for a few minutes after removing them from the oven.
When do I transfer them to a wire rack?
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack after they have sat on the sheet for a few minutes to cool completely.
What is the purpose of cornstarch in this recipe?
Cornstarch helps give the cookies a soft and delicate texture.
Can I use only one type of filling?
Yes, you can use only raspberry jam or only mint jelly if you prefer.
What texture do these cookies have?
They are buttery, soft cookies with a sweet jelly center.
Is this a traditional holiday recipe?
Yes, it is described as a cherished holiday tradition perfect for the festive season.
What category of food is this?
This recipe is categorized as a Dessert.
How many ingredients are required?
There are 9 ingredients in total for this recipe.
Do I need to soften the butter?
Yes, the butter should be softened before you begin mixing.
How much flour is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
How much vanilla extract is needed?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Can I share these cookies at gatherings?
Absolutely, they are perfect for sharing with family and friends at holiday gatherings.
What makes the centers colorful?
The red raspberry jam and green mint jelly provide a festive red-and-green holiday color scheme.
Is there baking powder in the dough?
Yes, the recipe uses 1 teaspoon of baking powder.