Jam Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Jam thumbprint cookies are classic, buttery treats with a sweet dollop of jam nestled in the center. They offer a delightful combination of crisp edges and a tender bite, perfect for tea time or any occasion that calls for a simple homemade cookie.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (224g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (104g) sugar (plus 3-4 tablespoons for rolling)
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups (260g) all purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup jam, any flavor

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set these aside for later.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light in color and fluffy. This usually takes a few minutes and you’ll notice the texture and color change.
3. Step 3: Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated.
4. Step 4: Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
5. Step 5: Add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cookies tender.
6. Step 6: Scoop 1 1/2 tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Roll the balls in the additional sugar if using, then place them on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Step 7: Immediately press the center of each cookie gently with your thumb, the end of a spatula, or the bottom of a measuring spoon to create an indent. Do this right away to prevent the cookies from cracking.
8. Step 8: Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen jam.
9. Step 9: Bake the cookies for 10-13 minutes, or until the edges just begin to brown. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and moist.
10. Step 10: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• For softer cookies, use strawberry or raspberry jam, which tend to be more moist. For a firmer jam center, apricot or blackberry work well.
• Try adding a little lemon zest to the dough for a bright, fresh flavor twist.
• If you don’t have vanilla extract, almond extract makes a lovely substitute.

Storage

Store your jam thumbprint cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently in the oven for a few minutes if you prefer them warm before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use jam that has seeds?

Yes, you can use jam with seeds. They add texture and flavor, but if you prefer a smoother center, choose seedless varieties or strain the jam first.

How do I prevent the cookies from cracking?

Press the indentations into the dough balls immediately after rolling and before baking. This step helps avoid cracks during baking.

Jam Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

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4.6 from 660 reviews

These Jam Thumbprint Cookies are buttery, soft, and perfectly sweet, filled with your favorite jam for a delightful treat. Easy to make and great for any occasion, these cookies combine a tender shortbread-like dough with a sweet dollop of jam that bursts with flavor in every bite.

• Author: Jeannette
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cookie Dough

• 1 cup (224g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (104g) sugar (plus 3–4 tablespoons for rolling)
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups (260g) all purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Filling

• 1/2 cup jam, any flavor

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixer bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light in color and fluffy. This usually takes a few minutes and is key to creating a tender cookie texture.
3. Add Egg Yolks: Add the egg yolks one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated.
4. Mix in Vanilla Extract: Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until combined to add a warm, sweet aroma and flavor to the dough.
5. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined to form the cookie dough. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.
6. Shape Cookies: Scoop 1 1/2 tablespoon-sized portions of dough, gently roll each into a ball, then roll in the additional sugar if using. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet spaced evenly.
7. Create Thumbprints: Immediately press the centers of each dough ball down with your thumb, the end of a spatula, or the bottom of a measuring spoon. This indentation will hold the jam and helps prevent cracking during baking.
8. Fill with Jam: Spoon approximately 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen jam into each indentation, filling the centers generously but not overflowing.
9. Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-13 minutes or until the edges just begin to brown. Be careful not to overbake them to maintain a soft texture.
10. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes to set, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Notes

• You can use any flavor of jam you like, such as raspberry, strawberry, apricot, or blueberry for different tastes.
• Rolling the dough balls in sugar before pressing the thumbprint adds a lovely crunch and extra sweetness to the cookie edges.
• Be careful not to overmix the dough after adding the flour to keep the cookies tender.
• Press the centers immediately after rolling to prevent the cookies from cracking during baking.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.

Keywords: Jam Thumbprint Cookies, thumbprint cookies, jam cookies, buttery cookies, classic cookie recipe, holiday cookies, easy baking recipe