Jam Thumbprint Cookies That Just Channel Nostalgia
Is there anything more comforting than a warm tray of jam thumbprint cookies? Buttery, golden, and filled with bright fruit jam, these cookies have been passed down through generations for a reason. They’re simple, satisfying, and bring a little joy to every bite.
Whether you’re baking them for holidays, tea time, or just to fill your kitchen with the smell of home, these thumbprint cookies will win hearts every time. Bonus: they pair perfectly with a plate of rainbow sprinkle cookies for a colorful, nostalgic cookie tray.
Why I Love This Recipe
These cookies are pure comfort. The base is a soft, buttery shortbread-style dough with just the right amount of crumb, and the sweet jam centers add a burst of fruit flavor. I love the versatility—choose your favorite jam (strawberry, raspberry, apricot), and you’re good to go. They’re also the perfect baking project for kids to help with, especially the thumbprint part!
They’re right at home next to other classic faves like cake mix cookies or pumpkin spice muffins.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup fruit jam (strawberry, raspberry, or your favorite)
🍓 Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Butter: Use real unsalted butter for the best rich flavor.
- Jam: Go smooth or chunky—just avoid ones that are too watery.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or almond extract for a twist.
- Make it festive: Dust cooled cookies with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze.
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until fully incorporated.
4. Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Shape and Fill
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to gently press an indentation in the center of each cookie.
Fill each with about 1 teaspoon of jam.
6. Bake and Cool
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just golden.
Let cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
💡 Tips for Success
- Chill dough for 10–15 minutes if it feels too soft to roll.
- Don’t overfill—a small spoonful of jam is perfect.
- Use a small scoop for even-sized cookies.
- Try two flavors of jam on one tray for a fun variety.
🍽 Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These cookies go beautifully with:
- Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies – bright, cheerful companions
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – for a rich, fudgy contrast
- Cake Mix Cookies – great for mixed cookie boxes
- Pumpkin Spice Muffins – for a seasonal twist
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites – little bites, big flavor
🧊 Storage Tips
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked dough balls (make the indentations first) for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Bring frozen dough to room temp before adding jam and baking.
🥄 More Recipes You’ll Love
- Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies – joyful and colorful
- Cake Mix Cookies – easy and reliable
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites – tiny classics
- Pumpkin Spice Muffins – autumn-perfect
- Brownie Bombs – indulgent and impressive
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Jam Thumbprint Cookies never go out of style. They’re a cozy, sweet throwback to childhood afternoons and cookie tins filled with memories. Soft, simple, and packed with fruity goodness—they’ll always have a spot on your dessert table.
Tried them? Snap a photo and tag us @ChefManiac! And explore more sweet classics and modern twists at ChefManiac.com.
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