Sweet Tart Dough (Pâte Sucrée)

1. Combine Butter and Sugar

Begin by placing the softened butter and sugar in a mixing bowl. Using a mixer, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the butter, ensuring a tender dough.

2. Add Flavorings and Egg Yolk

Next, add the salt, vanilla extract, and egg yolk to the butter and sugar mixture. Continue mixing until these ingredients are fully combined, ensuring the dough has a uniform flavor throughout.

3. Incorporate Flour

Gradually mix the flour into the dough using your mixer, then switch to a spatula to fold until no dry patches remain. This step ensures a consistent dough texture, which is essential for even baking. Your dough should be evenly moistened with no visible flour, creating a smooth and pliable consistency.

4. Chill the Dough

Once the dough is well mixed, wrap it in plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling time allows the dough to firm up, making it easier to roll out and shape without sticking.

5. Optional Cinnamon Addition

For an optional flavor enhancement, you can mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon before chilling the dough, adding a warm, spicy note to your creation.

6. Make Thumbprint Cookies

If you wish to make thumbprint cookies, roll the chilled dough into small balls, coat them with sugar, and gently press your thumb into the center of each to create an indentation. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 12 minutes until they achieve a light golden color. Remove them from the oven, fill each indentation with lemon curd or jam, and return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to set the filling.