Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few basic ingredients, these cookies come together quickly.
Customizable: Choose your favorite jam or chocolate for the center.
Perfect for Gifting: Their charming look makes them ideal for sharing with friends and family.
Versatile: Enjoy them year-round or as part of holiday cookie

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup (230 grams) unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup (135 grams) granulated sugar, plus extra for rolling
2 large egg yolks, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 and 1/3 cups (290 grams) all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled
1/2 cup fruit jam (raspberry, apricot, or your choice)
Optional: 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans)

directions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Add Egg Yolks and Flavorings: Mix in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until the dough comes together. It may appear crumbly at first but will form a cohesive dough as you mix.
Shape Dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. If using, roll each ball in granulated sugar and then in finely chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Indent and Fill: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to create an indentation in the center of each cookie. Fill each indentation with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen jam.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 36 cookies
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 12–14 minutes
Total time: 32–34

variations

Nut-Free Version: Omit the nuts for a classic thumbprint cookie.
Chocolate Center: Replace jam with a chocolate ganache or a piece of chocolate for a different flavor profile.
Lemon Curd Filling: Use lemon curd instead of jam for a citrusy twist.
Spiced Dough: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
Holiday Colors: Use colored sugar for rolling the dough balls to match holiday

storage/reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used, it may affect the texture and flavor. For best results, use unsalted butter.

How can I prevent the jam from spreading during baking?

Ensure the indentations are deep enough to hold the jam. If the jam spreads, reduce the baking time

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough, shape it into balls, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This recipe contains all-purpose flour. To make gluten-free thumbprint cookies, use a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I use homemade jam?

Absolutely! Homemade jam can add a personal touch and unique flavor to your thumbprint cookies.

How do I make the indentation without cracking the dough?

Use a lightly floured teaspoon handle or the back of a spoon to create the indentation. If cracks appear, gently press the dough back together.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough balls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What other fillings can I use?

In addition to jam, you can use chocolate ganache, lemon curd, Nutella, or even a whole candy like a chocolate kiss.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

To make vegan thumbprint cookies, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg instead of the egg yolks.

How do I make the cookies more festive?

Roll the dough balls in colored sugar or sprinkles before baking to add a festive touch.

Conclusion

Thumbprint cookies are a timeless treat that combines simplicity with elegance. Their buttery shortbread base and sweet center make them a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just because, these cookies are sure to delight. Feel free to experiment with different fillings and toppings to make them your For a visual guide on making thumbprint cookies, you might find this video helpful