Thumbprint Cookies Recipe – Buttery, Jam-Filled & Easy

Thumbprint cookies are a classic and delightful treat that combines a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie with a sweet jam-filled center. This Thumbprint Cookies Recipe is simple to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients, yet yields incredibly delicious results. Whether you’re making these cookies for the holidays, a special occasion, or just as an everyday treat, they are sure to be a hit. You can customize them with different types of jam or even chocolate for a unique twist.

Nutrition & Instructions

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 20 minutes
• Resting Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Cuisine: American, European
• Course: Dessert
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per Serving: ~150 kcal

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Small spoon or piping bag (for jam)
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup jam (strawberry, raspberry, apricot, or any preferred flavor)

Optional for Decoration:

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Melted chocolate (for drizzling)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 2: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the cookies dense instead of tender.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading during baking.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Once the dough has chilled, roll it into small 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Create the Thumbprint

Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to gently press an indentation into the center of each cookie. If the dough cracks slightly, smooth it out with your fingers.

Step 7: Fill with Jam

Spoon about ½ teaspoon of jam into each indentation. Be careful not to overfill, as the jam may spread while baking.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Optional Decoration

Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a festive touch or drizzle melted chocolate over them for extra indulgence.

Tips for Best Results

• Chill the Dough – This step is crucial to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
• Use High-Quality Jam – A thick jam works best, as thinner jams may become too runny while baking.
• Don’t Overfill – A small amount of jam is enough to prevent it from overflowing.
• Experiment with Fillings – Try Nutella, caramel, lemon curd, or peanut butter for a delicious variation.

Pairing Suggestions

These thumbprint cookies pair wonderfully with:

• A warm cup of tea or coffee
• A glass of cold milk
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat

Conclusion

This Thumbprint Cookies Recipe is a timeless favorite that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The buttery cookie base combined with sweet, fruity jam creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed as a holiday treat, a special dessert, or an afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to bring joy to anyone who tastes them!