Save It Heavenly Hanukkah Citrus Thumbprint Christmas Cookies are the festive treat I return to every December. Each bite features a rich, buttery cookie that cradles a shimmering citrus curd filling, just tangy enough to balance the sweetness. These cookies are the perfect way to light up both Hanukkah and Christmas dessert tables with something crowd-pleasing and bright.
I first came up with these when my family wanted something different than the usual chocolate treats. The smell of citrus and butter brought everyone to the kitchen before they were even out of the oven.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: choose European-style if available for the best flavor and a truly tender crumb
- Granulated sugar: helps with crisp edges and sweetness
- Large egg yolk: gives richness to both dough and curd
- Pure vanilla extract: adds aroma and roundness
- All-purpose flour: sift for light cookies
- Kosher salt: just a pinch to enhance the citrus and butter
- Fresh orange lemon and lime juices: offer natural flavor and a complex tartness
- Egg yolks (in the curd): make it velvety and rich
- Powdered sugar: a light dusting adds whimsy and a snow-like finish
Instructions
- Prepare the Citrus Curd:
- Begin by whisking together the orange juice lemon juice lime juice egg yolks granulated sugar and zest in a small saucepan. Stir constantly over medium-low heat for five to seven minutes until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. As soon as it reaches this stage take it off the heat and whisk in cold butter cubes until the filling turns glossy and smooth. Chill it in a bowl covered while you prepare the dough.
- Make the Cookie Dough:
- Cream softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl using an electric mixer until the mixture looks pale and fluffy. Now add the egg yolk and vanilla extract and beat again so everything is uniform and smooth. Gently fold in the flour and kosher salt stirring until you have a soft dough that just barely holds together. Try not to overmix for the most delicate texture.
- Shape and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Using clean hands shape the dough into small balls about one inch across then space them out on your baking sheets. Lightly press your thumb or the rounded back of a spoon into the center of each ball to make a deep well for the filling. Bake for ten minutes watching closely to avoid browning. Take them out and gently press the centers again if necessary. Spoon a small amount of the chilled citrus curd into each indentation. Return the pans to the oven for five more minutes until the edges set and turn the palest gold.
- Cool and Finish:
- Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for five minutes to set before you move them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool dust each with powdered sugar if you like for a dainty finish that mimics a sprinkling of snow.
Save It The combination of silky citrus curd with buttery cookies always reminds me of baking during Hanukkah celebrations growing up. I love how the citrus perks up winter days and brings a little sunshine indoors each year.
Storage Tips
Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator where the citrus curd stays fresh and bright for up to five days. Let them come to room temperature just before serving for the finest texture and flavor. If you want to make ahead prep the dough or curd the night before and assemble fresh the day you bake.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a dairy-free version trust in your favorite plant-based butter. You can also swap out the citrus juices for blood orange or grapefruit which changes the flavor but always keeps things lively. If you are out of vanilla try a touch of almond extract for a more aromatic twist.
Serving Suggestions
Plate these cookies for dessert after a traditional Hanukkah or Christmas meal. Pair with hot tea or even mulled wine if you like to play up the citrus notes. They are also delightful set out on a platter for a cookie swap or as edible holiday gifts nestled in festive boxes.
Save It Let the cookie tray shine at every gathering—they will vanish as quickly as you set them out! Savor that bright citrus spark and enjoy the sweet memories they create.