I found mixing the dough only until it forms a loose crumble ensures the dough fills all the nooks and crannies. Simply tamp and press it down into the pan until it becomes one firm piece. I never get air bubbles and never need to prick with a fork.
The design is best preserved on the cookie if baked on the highest oven rack.
I also will cut the cookies and return them to the oven. This ensures the center of the cookie baked as well.

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