When it comes to baking treats that are as delightful to eat as they are to prepare, Jammy Coconut Thumbprint Tartlets are a wonderful choice. These tartlets are a perfect mix of textures and flavors, combining the buttery richness of the dough with the sweetness of jam and the crunchy texture of coconut. If you’re someone who cherishes the joy of baking, these tartlets are definitely going to hit the sweet spot. Why? Because they offer a delicious journey from the first crackling bite to the jammy center, making them an irresistible treat for everyone.
What makes this recipe appealing is its simplicity and the versatility it offers. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create these little delights that are a feast for the eyes and taste buds. Moreover, the filling can be customized with your favorite jams, allowing you to tailor the flavors to your personal preference. Not only do these tartlets provide an excellent indulgence at tea parties and family gatherings, but they also work as a charming self-treat.
Why You’ll Love This Jammy Coconut Thumbprint Tartlets Recipe
- Simplicity: Easy-to-follow steps that even beginners can master.
- Customizable: Adapt the jam filling to your favorite flavors.
- Texture Contrast: Combines a crispy coconut exterior with a tender, jammy interior.
- Visually Appealing: Makes your dessert table look colorful and inviting.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into making these delightful tartlets, ensure you have ample workspace in the kitchen. Clear your counters to give yourself plenty of room to roll the dough and prepare the filling. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; this makes for easy transfer and cleanup afterward. As for tools, you’ll need a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the butter and sugar until perfectly fluffy. A small spoon or thumb will do for forming the indentations where the irresistibly sweet jam will nestle. An oven thermometer can be handy to ensure your confection is baked at the right temperature for the perfect golden-brown finish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2⁄3 cup sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1⁄2 tsp salt
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1⁄2 cup jam (raspberry, apricot, strawberry, or your favorite)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by creaming the butter and sugar together. Use your mixer on a medium setting for a few minutes until the mixture turns light and fluffy. Next, add in the egg yolks one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Gradually introduce the flour and salt into the mix. Stir until the dough starts forming, and all components are evenly combined, resulting in a soft and pliable dough.
Step 2: Form and Coat the Balls
Roll the dough into small balls, roughly the size of a walnut. Keep a small bowl of lightly beaten egg whites ready for dunking. Dip each dough ball into the egg whites, ensuring an even coating to help the coconut adhere. Roll each ball in the shredded coconut and place them onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow room for spreading while baking.
Step 3: Create the Thumb Print and Fill
Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, gently press an indentation into the center of each coconut-coated ball. Fill each cavity with a spoonful of your chosen jam, being careful not to overfill as the jam will bubble during baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before placing the tartlets inside. Bake them for 12–14 minutes, or until you notice the edges turning a light golden brown and the coconut becoming slightly toasted. This gives a wonderful crispiness, contrasting beautifully with the gooey jam center. Once done, allow the tartlets to cool on a wire rack before serving.
Variations
- Protein: Add chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans for added crunch.
- Vegetables: Incorporate finely grated carrots or zucchini for a twist.
- Spices: Infuse spices like cinnamon or cardamom into the dough for an aromatic flavor.
Cooking Notes
- The dough can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days or frozen for up to a month.
- For more pronounced coconut flavor, lightly toast the shredded coconut before coating the dough balls.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these tartlets with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Serve them on a platter as part of a dessert buffet at parties or family gatherings.
Tips
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
- Use multiple types of jam for a colorful and flavorful variety.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 300kcal
- Protein: Not specified
- Sodium: Not specified
FAQs
What type of jam works best for this recipe?
You have the flexibility to use any jam you prefer, whether it’s raspberry, apricot, strawberry, or even a mixed berry blend. Choose the one that fits the taste profile you’re aiming for.
Can the shredded coconut be unsweetened?
Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut if you prefer a less sweet tartlet, or if you’re looking to cut down on sugar intake. Adjust the sugar in the dough accordingly to balance the flavor.
How do I keep the tartlets fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer preservation, simply thaw them before serving.
Can I make these tartlets gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking mix. Ensure that the rest of your ingredients, like the coconut, are gluten-free as well.
Conclusion
Jammy Coconut Thumbprint Tartlets offer a delightful way to satisfy sweet cravings while being versatile and easy to prepare. Their lovely texture, stunning appearance, and the burst of flavor from each bite make them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Encourage your friends and family to join in the fun of trying different jams or even exploring various take on the classic recipe. Feel free to leave a comment below or share your favorite variations with others. Happy baking!
Print
Jammy Coconut Thumbprint Tartlets
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 24 tartlets 1x
Description
A delightful mix of textures and flavors, combining buttery rich dough with sweet jam and crunchy coconut.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2⁄3 cup sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1⁄2 tsp salt
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1⁄2 cup jam (raspberry, apricot, strawberry, or your favorite)
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg yolks one at a time, then vanilla. Gradually add flour and salt, stir until dough forms.
- Roll dough into small balls, dip in egg whites, coat in coconut, place on baking sheet.
- Make an indentation in each ball, fill with jam.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-14 minutes or until golden. Cool on a wire rack.
Notes
Dough can be prepped ahead and frozen; toast coconut for richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal