Get ready to steal Christmas (and everyone's hearts) with these adorable and delectable Iced Thumbprint Grinch Cookies! Imagine a festive treat that combines the whimsy of the beloved Dr. Seuss character with the irresistible charm of a classic thumbprint cookie. These green-frosted delights are not just a dessert; they're a magical experience that will transform your holiday baking from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, these cookies promise to bring joy, nostalgia, and a touch of playful mischief to your holiday spread.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup green icing
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, create a gentle indentation in the center of each cookie, being careful not to crack the edges.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are very lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and immediately reinforce the thumb indentations while the cookies are still warm, using the back of a spoon if needed.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Once cooled, fill the center indentations with raspberry jam, using a small spoon or piping bag.
- Drizzle or pipe green icing over the cookies in a festive Grinch-like pattern, allowing some of the red jam to peek through.
- Let the icing set completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving or storing.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Tips
- Butter Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted. Room temperature butter creates the perfect creamy base for your cookie dough.
- Gentle Thumb Technique: When creating the cookie indentations, use a light touch. Press gently to avoid cracking the cookie's delicate structure.
- Jam and Icing Precision: Use a piping bag for more controlled and neater jam filling and green icing drizzling. This will help you achieve that picture-perfect Grinch look.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow cookies to cool completely before decorating to prevent the icing from melting and ensure a clean, crisp design.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These cookies can be prepared in advance and stored for up to 5 days, making them perfect for holiday prep and gifting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
