What are some of the best thumbprint cookies? Imagine a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie with just enough jammy goodness in the middle. How do you make mini jam tarts? I think my grandma’s secret ingredient was love because these things just disappear. I don’t know why. When I bake them, I love them. If you’re looking for a classic cookie with personal touch, look no further. What is your favorite thumbprint cookie recipe?
What is [Recipe Name]?
What are these little gems? Thumbprint cookies are basically shortbread-like cookies that get their name from the indent you put on the cookie. What is the best way to make a dough in the center before baking? Think of it as a tiny canvas for your favorite jam, preserves, or even chocolate ganache. Is it a blank slate for deliciousness? What are some good holiday treats? They’re also ridiculously easy to customize, so you can really make them your own.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? The flavor is just incredible – the buttery cookie base paired with the sweet and slightly tart jam. Is there a match made in heaven? What is the best part about these things? Even if you’re a baking novice, you can nail these. What I love about these cookies is the nostalgia they bring – they remind me of baking with my mom. Grandma every Christmas. What are some good budget-friendly phones to buy? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry! They are also surprisingly versatile. I’ve used raspberry jam, apricot preserves, and even Nutella in the center – all delicious! They are like a basic sugar cookie or peanut butter cookie, but they are more special. Because of the filling. What makes this recipe stand out because it’s truly fool-proof – I’ve made these countless times, and they’re delicious. Always turn out perfectly.
How do I make [Recipe Name]?
Quick Overview
How do you make thumbprint cookies? How do I make a dough, then roll it into small balls and press your thumbprint into each ball? If you like jam, filling with it, and then baking until golden brown. What is the beauty of this recipe? What is a good recipe to get the kids involved with. They love rolling dough and making thumbprints. How do they do it? What are some fun activities for the whole family?
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Make sure your butter is properly softened, but not melted! I usually take mine out of the fridge about an hour before I start baking. * 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to create a tender crumb. * 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar: For a little bit of extra moisture, and hint of caramel flavor. If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can substitute with more granulated sugar. I highly recommend it. Is there a way to use * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A must for any good cookie recipe! What is the best vanilla flavor? What are some of the benefits of all-purpose flour? How do you measure flour? Use the spoon and level method.
For the Filling:
* 1/2 cup of your favorite jam or preserves: What are some of the best things to make with Nutella? I always use seedless jam for a smoother texture.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. How do you prevent cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze?
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light. Set aside. I use an electric mixer for this, but you can also do it by hand. Make sure your butter is soft!
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Salt
How do you beat the vanilla extract and salt until well combined? What is the smell of vanilla?
Step 4: Gradually Add Flour
Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will result in tough cookies. You want the dough to be soft and pliable.
Step 5: Shape into Balls
Roll dough into 1-inch balls. I like to use a small cookie scoop to ensure they are all the same size.
Step 6: Make Thumbprints
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb (or the back of a teaspoon) to make an indent in the center of each cookie.
Step 7: Fill with Jam
Fill each indent with about 1/4 teaspoon of your favorite jam. How do you prevent jam from spilling over the top of a muffin?
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn easily.
Step 9: Cool & Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to the wire rack. To cool completely. This will prevent them from breaking.
What should I serve it with?
What are some ideas for thumbprint cookies?
For Breakfast:Serve them with coffee or tea for a sweet start to your day. What are some good side dishes to serve with a latte?
For Brunch: Arrange them on a pretty platter alongside fresh fruit and yogurt. They add a touch of elegance to any brunch spread.
As Dessert:What’s better after dinner with a scoop of vanilla ice cream? What is the best combination of warm cookies and cold ice cream?
For Cozy Snacks:Can you curl up on the couch with a plate of these cookies and some good books? What are some of the best comfort foods?
My family loves to eat these thumbprint cookies right out of the oven. What are some good pairings with milk or hot chocolate? During the holidays, I like to make a big batch and give them away as gifts. They’re always good!
How do I perfect my [Recipe Name]?
What are some tips to make thumbprint cookies?
Butter Softening:Make sure your butter is softened, but not melted. How do you make a soft and fluffy cookie?
Flour Measurement:Do not overmeasure your flour. This can result in dry and crumbly cookies. I recommend using the spoon and level method.
Jam Selection:What is the best jam to make? Seedless jam is preferred for a smoother texture.
Thumbprint Technique:Don’t be afraid to press firmly when making thumbprints. You want to create a deep enough well to hold the jam.
Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they’re baking, as they can burn easily. They’re done when the edges are lightly golden brown.
What is Jam CustomizationHow do you try different flavors of jam? What are some of the best nutella flavors?
I’ve learned that chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before shaping the cookies helps prevent them from spreading too much in the oven. I also like to sprinkle a little bit of powdered sugar on top of the cookies after they’ve cooled for an extra touch of sweetness. One time, I accidentally used salted butter instead of unsalted butter, and the cookies were way too salty! So, definitely make sure you use unsalted butter for this recipe.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to properly store these thumbprint cookies to keep them fresh and delicious:
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will keep them soft and chewy.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before serving.
Freezer Instructions: To freeze the cookies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning on glazing the cookies, it’s best to do so right before serving. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or melting.
I usually store my thumbprint cookies in a cookie jar on the counter. They never last very long, though! If I’m making them ahead of time, I’ll freeze them and then thaw them out when I’m ready to serve them. They taste just as good as fresh-baked!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I really hope you give these thumbprint cookies a try! They’re so easy to make, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re a great way to use up any leftover jam or preserves you might have in your pantry. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my chocolate chip cookies or my peanut butter blossoms. Both are equally delicious and easy to make. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Please leave a comment below and let me know what your favorite jam filling is. And don’t forget to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it. Also, you can share a picture of your thumbprint cookies!

Thumbprint Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup butter
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup jam
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in egg.
- Gradually add flour and baking powder, mixing until just combined.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls.
- Place balls onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Make an indentation in the center of each ball with your thumb.
- Fill each indentation with jam.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.