Jam Packed Thumbprint Cookies are an absolute delight, combining a soft, buttery texture with a glossy jam center that makes them irresistible. These cookies are not just a treat; they are a comforting reminder of home-baked goodness that can bring joy to any occasion. If you’ve been searching for the perfect sweet to pair with your afternoon tea or to impress guests at a gathering, you’re in the right place!

Why You’ll Love This Jam Packed Thumbprint Cookies

These cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here are just a few reasons to love them:

They are easy to make, perfect for baking beginners.
Each cookie is filled with your favorite jam, allowing for personalization.
They are a fantastic option for holiday baking or any celebration.
With a variety of fillings, they can cater to different taste preferences.
The recipe is vegetarian, making it suitable for a wider audience.
They can be stored easily for a quick sweet treat anytime.

Plus, you can create stuffed thumbprint cookies or loaded thumbprint cookies with different fillings, ensuring there’s always something unique to enjoy!

Ingredients for Jam Packed Thumbprint Cookies

Gather these items:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
⅓ cup powdered sugar
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A small splash of almond extract (optional)
¼ teaspoon fine salt
1¼ cups all-purpose flour
⅓ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
½ cup smooth fruit jam (raspberry, apricot, strawberry, or your choice)
1 cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)

How to Make Jam Packed Thumbprint Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, blend the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Mix in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt. Stir until fully combined.
Step 4: Fold in the flour gradually until a soft, pliable dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Roll 1-tablespoon portions of dough into smooth balls. Coat each ball lightly in granulated sugar and place them on the baking sheet.
Step 6: Press your thumb or the end of a spoon into the center of each dough ball to create a small well. Fill each indentation with a small spoonful of jam.
Step 7: Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until the bottoms turn lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 8: Whisk powdered sugar with a splash of milk until thick but drizzle-friendly. Drizzle over cooled cookies for a pretty finish.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Jam Packed Thumbprint Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Feel free to use any fruit jam of your choice for a variety of flavors.
For extra flavor, add a splash of almond extract to the dough.
Store cookies in an airtight container for freshness; they can last up to a week.

Best Ways to Serve Jam Packed Thumbprint Cookies

These cookies are fantastic on their own, but here are some serving ideas:

Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
They make a great addition to a dessert platter at parties.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert option.

How to Store and Reheat Jam Packed Thumbprint Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to soften them up again.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jam Packed Thumbprint Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Jam Packed Thumbprint Cookies?

The key is to ensure that the dough is not overmixed, which keeps the cookies tender. Also, make sure to fill the thumbprint with just the right amount of jam to prevent overflow while baking.

Can I make Jam Packed Thumbprint Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just roll and bake when you’re ready to enjoy fresh cookies.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Jam Packed Thumbprint Cookies?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Also, always preheat your oven to guarantee even baking.

Variations of Jam Packed Thumbprint Cookies You Can Try

These cookies can be tailored to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are some fun variations:

Try using chocolate filling for thumbprint cookies with chocolate filling.
Experiment with different fruit jams or even savory fillings for a unique twist.
For a festive version, add holiday spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.

Whether you choose to stick with the classic recipe or explore unique thumbprint cookie variations, these cookies are bound to be a hit!

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making gingerbread cookies for a festive treat. You can also explore cranberry almond shortbread cookies for a delightful variation!

Jam Packed Thumbprint Cookies: 7 Irresistible Recipes

Author: basmer
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Perfect Thumbprint Cookies with a soft, buttery texture and a glossy jam center.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
In a medium bowl, blend the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Mix in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt. Stir until fully combined.
Fold in the flour gradually until a soft, pliable dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
Roll 1-tablespoon portions of dough into smooth balls. Coat each ball lightly in granulated sugar and place them on the baking sheet.
Press your thumb or the end of a spoon into the center of each dough ball to create a small well. Fill each indentation with a small spoonful of jam.
Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until the bottoms turn lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Whisk powdered sugar with a splash of milk until thick but drizzle-friendly. Drizzle over cooled cookies for a pretty finish.