Jam-Filled Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
These classic Jam-Filled Thumbprint Cookies are tender, buttery, and feature a delightful sweet jam center. Their heart-like indent makes them a charming treat for Valentine’s Day or any festive occasion. Easy to prepare and perfect for cookie trays or edible gifts, these cookies are a timeless favorite loved by all ages.
- Author: Cara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
- Total Time: 27-29 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
Filling
- ½ cup strawberry or raspberry jam
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Incorporate the large egg yolk and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix well until fully combined to ensure flavor is evenly distributed.
- Mix in Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed or use a wooden spoon to combine the dough until it forms a smooth, cohesive ball.
- Form Balls and Make Thumbprints: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to press an indentation into the center of each cookie ball, creating a small well.
- Fill with Jam: Spoon about ½ teaspoon of strawberry or raspberry jam into each thumbprint indentation carefully, making sure not to overfill to prevent spilling during baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookie centers are set.
- Cool Before Serving: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the cookies firm up and prevents breakage.
Notes
- You can substitute the jam with any favorite flavor such as apricot, blueberry, or cherry.
- For an extra festive look, sprinkle powdered sugar over the cooled cookies before serving.
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and better dough texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Keywords: thumbprint cookies, jam cookies, buttery cookies, Valentine's Day cookies, classic cookies, homemade cookies, dessert