Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and softened cream cheese until light and fluffy. This can be done with an electric mixer or by hand with a sturdy whisk. Ensure both ingredients are at room temperature for the smoothest blend.1 cup unsalted butter, softened, 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- Stir in the vanilla extract and salt until well combined. The vanilla adds a warm aroma, and the salt helps to balance the sweetness.1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the creamed mixture, mixing on low speed or stirring with a spatula until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix the dough at this stage, as this can lead to tough cookies.2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- If you are using guava paste, dice it into very small pieces or purée it in a food processor until smooth. This will make it easier to spoon into the cookie indentations.1 cup guava paste, finely diced or puréed
- Roll the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. You should get approximately 3 to 4 dozen cookies from this recipe.
- Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, gently press an indentation into the center of each cookie dough ball. Be careful not to press all the way through the dough.
- Spoon about ½ to 1 teaspoon of the prepared guava paste into each indentation. Don't overfill, as the guava will soften and spread slightly during baking.1 cup guava paste, finely diced or puréed
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown and the guava filling is bubbly.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, you can lightly dust the Guava Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.2 tablespoons powdered sugar for dusting
Notes
To keep your Guava Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies tasting their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For freezing, store in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes or gently warm in a low oven.
