Amber Jewel Fossil Cookies

Directions

1. 1

   In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. 2

   Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. 3

   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. 4

   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms.
5. 5

   Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. 6

   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. 7

   On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
8. 8

   Using a round or irregular-shaped cookie cutter (about 2-3 inches), cut out shapes. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets.
9. 9

   Carefully make an indentation in the center of each cookie (without going all the way through) using the back of a spoon or your thumb.
10. 10

    Lightly press a small plastic toy dinosaur or a textured object onto the edge of each cookie to create a 'fossil' imprint.
11. 11

    Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of fruit preserves.
12. 12

    Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the preserves are bubbly.
13. 13

    Let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
14. 14

    Once cooled, you may dust with powdered sugar, if desired, for a 'sandy' effect. Store in an airtight container.