Easy Thumbprint Cookies with Icing That Everyone Asks for During the Holidays

Name: Easy Thumbprint Cookies with Icing That Everyone Asks for During the Holidays
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for icing); 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)

March 23, 2025

Recipes

There’s something about classic thumbprint cookies that instantly reminds me of cozy holidays and family gatherings. They’re buttery, soft, and filled with just the right touch of sweetness. But what really makes them special for me is the simple icing drizzle that gives them a bakery-fresh finish without any fuss. These cookies are perfect for any time of year, but they really shine on a cookie platter during the holidays.

I love making these thumbprint cookies because they’re easy enough for a spontaneous weekend bake, but they look and taste impressive enough for gifting or special occasions. Plus, I almost always have the ingredients on hand.

Why I Love These Thumbprint Cookies with Icing
Here’s why this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen:

Buttery and tender with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
The thumbprint center can be filled with jam or left hollow for a simple glaze finish.
The icing drizzle adds just the right touch of sweetness and elegance.
No complicated steps — just classic, reliable baking.
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or afternoon coffee breaks.

Ingredients You’ll Need
(Makes about 24 cookies | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 12-14 minutes)

For the cookies:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the icing:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Food coloring (optional)

Optional: jam for filling the thumbprint centers (raspberry, strawberry, or apricot all work beautifully).

How I Make Thumbprint Cookies with Icing (Step-by-Step)

Preheat and Prep
I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, I cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Then I mix in the egg yolks and vanilla extract. I gradually add the flour and salt, stirring until the dough forms and pulls together nicely.
Shape and Thumbprint
I scoop out small portions of dough (about a tablespoon each) and roll them into smooth balls. I place them on the prepared baking sheet and gently press my thumb or the back of a small spoon into the center of each one to create a well.
Bake
I bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes, just until the edges are set and lightly golden. They stay pale on top, which keeps that soft, buttery texture. After baking, I let them cool completely before icing.
Make the Icing
While the cookies cool, I whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If I’m feeling festive, I divide the icing into small bowls and tint them with food coloring.
Ice the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, I drizzle the icing over the top using a spoon or a piping bag. If I’ve added jam to the centers before baking, I drizzle the icing around the edges for a pretty finish.

My Tips for Perfect Thumbprint Cookies

Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes if it feels too soft to handle. It makes shaping much easier.
Don’t press too deep when making the thumbprint well; you just want a slight indentation.
If the centers puff up slightly during baking, I gently press them down again with the back of a spoon while they’re still warm.
For added sparkle, I sometimes sprinkle colored sugar or sanding sugar over the icing before it sets.

Fun Variations I’ve Tried

Filling the centers with Nutella or caramel sauce before baking.
Swapping out vanilla for almond extract for a different flavor profile.
Adding a little lemon zest to the dough for a bright citrus twist.
Using melted white chocolate to drizzle instead of traditional icing.

What I Serve with These Thumbprint Cookies

A hot cup of coffee or spiced tea — these cookies are perfect for dipping.
Holiday hot cocoa or mulled cider for festive gatherings.
A platter alongside other holiday favorites like shortbread and peppermint bark.
Wrapped in a clear bag with a ribbon for a simple homemade gift.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I freeze these cookies?
A: Yes! I freeze them without icing and then drizzle fresh icing after thawing for the best texture.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. I refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours or freeze it for longer storage. Just let it soften slightly before shaping.

Q: Do I need to fill the thumbprints with jam?
A: Not at all! Sometimes I leave them hollow and just drizzle with icing for a simple, elegant cookie.

Q: How do I keep the icing from running too much?
A: Make sure the cookies are fully cool, and adjust the icing thickness with a little more powdered sugar if needed.

Why These Thumbprint Cookies with Icing Deserve a Spot in Your Recipe Box
These cookies are everything I want in a classic homemade treat — buttery, soft, and just sweet enough. The simple icing drizzle takes them from everyday cookies to something really special. Whether you’re making them for the holidays, gifting them to friends, or just treating yourself to a quiet baking day, this recipe is one you’ll reach for again and again.

I hope you give these thumbprint cookies with icing a try and make them your own. Whether you fill them with jam, drizzle with chocolate, or keep it classic, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.