Imagine transforming a simple cake mix into mouthwatering, bakery-style thumbprint cookies in just 22 minutes! These incredibly simple yet stunning cookies will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that looks like it came straight from a professional pastry kitchen. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, these Cake Mix Thumbprint Cookies are about to become your new go-to treat for any occasion.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 22 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 box cake mix (any flavor)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup jam or jelly
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix thoroughly using an electric mixer or wooden spoon until a soft dough forms. The mixture should be well-incorporated and slightly sticky.
- Using clean hands or a cookie scoop, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place the balls approximately 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Gently press your thumb or the back of a small spoon into the center of each cookie dough ball, creating a well or indentation. Be careful not to press too hard to avoid cracking the cookie.
- Fill each indentation with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of jam or jelly. Choose a flavor that complements the cake mix you're using.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown. The centers should look set but still soft.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly and makes transfer easier.
- Carefully transfer the cookies to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. The jam centers will be very hot, so handle with care.
- Once completely cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve for an elegant finishing touch.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Tips
- • Choose a cake mix flavor that complements your jam - chocolate mix with raspberry jam, vanilla mix with strawberry, or spice mix with apricot jam can create amazing flavor combinations. • Make sure your dough balls are uniform in size for even baking and consistent appearance. • If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before forming balls. • Use a small measuring spoon or the back of a 1/2 teaspoon to create perfect indentations without cracking the cookie. • Don't overfill the jam centers - a little goes a long way to prevent overflow during baking. • Allow cookies to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar to prevent melting. • For a gourmet touch, try using different flavored jams or even chocolate ganache in the centers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
