Homemade Thumbprint Cookies with Jam
These homemade thumbprint cookies with jam are buttery, tender, and filled with a burst of fruity jam, perfect for cozy moments and family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- About 1/2 cup jam or fruit preserves (raspberry, strawberry, or apricot recommended)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a medium bowl, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed.
- Mix in 1 large egg yolk and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract until combined. Optionally add 1/4 teaspoon almond extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, mixing on low until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon (15g) of dough per cookie and roll into balls. Place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
- Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to gently press into the center of each dough ball, making a small well about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) deep.
- Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of jam or preserves into each indentation.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden. Watch carefully to avoid overbaking.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optionally dust with powdered sugar after cooling.
Notes
Use room temperature butter for best texture. If dough is too sticky, chill for 15 minutes before shaping. Use thicker jams or heat runny jam slightly to prevent spilling. Press thumbprint gently but firmly. Baking time may vary by oven; check at 12 minutes. Cookies cool on baking sheet first to set without breaking. Optional almond extract adds a subtle nutty flavor. Powdered sugar dusting adds a festive touch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 11
- Protein: 1
Keywords: thumbprint cookies, jam cookies, homemade cookies, buttery cookies, easy cookie recipe, family treats, holiday cookies