I made these cookies as Christmas presents for our families. They had to be shipped all over the nation and they shipped well and have been getting rave reviews so far. I was hesitant to send them out because I made the recipe exactly as written the first time and they were extremely BLAND! The cookies had no flavor, the texture was blah and even the expensive jam couldn't save them. I didn't have the heart to trash the cookies right away and glad I gave them a few days to flavor. They were much better! The cookies had softened a little and the texture was much more buttery, like a good shortcake should be. The jam flavor had also permeated the cookies and they were more flavorful. I was determined to send out some good thumbprint cookies so I made a second batch with some changes from other reviewers as well as a little cookie common sense. I added about 1/4 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp vanilla, and 1/8 tsp orange extract. I didn't want the orange to get too strong but I'd probably go ahead and add 1/4 tsp next time because it was not even noticeable. A little cardamon may also be nice in them depending on the flavor of jam used. So far I've heard from most of the family and they are giving rave reviews on these cookies. I wasn't expecting them to be the stand out cookie. I'd suggest making these cookies a few days ahead of time before you serve them.

Reviewed On: Dec. 15, 2011

This recipe is very easy and comes out very smooth. Will definitely need to have a good candy thermometer and go for 240 degrees. As someone else said, it takes 15-20 minutes to get there and use the water test to make sure it's at the right stage. I use Jif peanut butter for making this as it's a little less oily than some other brands. I would also recommend you test out your thermometer in some hot or boiling water before making candy. A lot of the cheaper ones seem to be good for a few uses and then no longer register accurately.

Reviewed On: Oct. 28, 2009

We made this for a family function and because I had so much to do, I had my husband make it. He does not cook, much less bake and with a minimal amount of guidance, it came out beautifully! I use a high quality cocoa powder and this was very chocolatey. I was really hoping there would be some leftovers as most of the family prefer fruit desserts, but all I had was an empty pie plate...no one could believe my husband made it either! Very simple recipe and incredibly good!

Reviewed On: Oct. 28, 2009