Jam Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that combines buttery goodness with a fruity burst of flavor. As a classic favorite, these cookies are filled with your choice of jam and topped with a sweet almond glaze, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a cozy tea time, or simply a sweet craving, these cookies are sure to please everyone. With just the right balance of texture and taste, they are truly melt-in-your-mouth delights.
Why You’ll Love This Jam Thumbprint Cookies
There are countless reasons to adore these jam-filled cookies. First, they are incredibly easy to make, even for beginners; this easy jam thumbprint cookie recipe is foolproof! Second, they offer versatility in flavor; you can use any fruit jam you desire, from raspberry to strawberry. Third, they are perfect for various occasions, be it a festive gathering or a simple afternoon snack. Fourth, the buttery texture pairs wonderfully with the sweet jam, creating a delightful contrast. Fifth, they can be enjoyed fresh or stored for later, making them ideal for meal prep. Lastly, these cookies can be made gluten-free, appealing to diverse dietary needs. Truly, these thumbprint cookies are a must-have in any cookie repertoire.
Ingredients for Jam Thumbprint Cookies
Gather these items:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 ¼ cups (280 grams) all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup jam (raspberry, strawberry, marmalade, or any preferred kind)
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
How to Make Jam Thumbprint Cookies Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 2: Beat in the pure vanilla extract and salt until fully incorporated.
- Step 3: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, beating on low speed just until combined.
- Step 4: Shape the dough into a ball using your hands; wrap tightly with plastic cling wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Step 5: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large half sheet baking pan with parchment paper.
- Step 6: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Place the balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 7: Press your thumb or the back of a small spoon into the center of each dough ball to create an indentation for the jam.
- Step 8: Spoon a small amount of your chosen jam into each indentation carefully.
- Step 9: Place the baking sheet with the jam-filled cookies in the refrigerator while the oven finishes preheating.
- Step 10: Bake the cookies for 13-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
- Step 11: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
- Step 12: In a medium bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, almond extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk. Add additional milk until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.
- Step 13: Using a spoon or piping bag, drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.
- Step 14: Let the glazed cookies sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours to allow the glaze to firm up.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Jam Thumbprint Cookies
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough; it helps prevent spreading.
- Use a variety of jams for different flavors in your fruit jam cookies.
- For a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped nuts to the dough.
- Baking time may vary based on your oven, so keep an eye on the cookies.
- Experiment with different glazes for added flavor.
Best Ways to Serve Jam Thumbprint Cookies
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them further. Serve them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. They also make an excellent addition to dessert platters for gatherings, alongside other cookie thumbprints with jam or sweet treats. Pair them with fresh fruit or whipped cream for a delicious twist.
How to Store and Reheat Jam Thumbprint Cookies
To store your homemade thumbprint cookies with jam, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in the freezer. Reheat gently in the oven for a few minutes to restore their fresh-baked texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jam Thumbprint Cookies
What’s the secret to perfect Jam Thumbprint Cookies?
The secret lies in the chilling process! Refrigerating the dough helps prevent spreading and retains the classic thumbprint cookie shape, ensuring a perfect bite every time.
Can I make Jam Thumbprint Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just shape and bake them when you’re ready for freshly baked cookies.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Jam Thumbprint Cookies?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure your butter is at the right softness and don’t overmix the dough. Also, be cautious not to overfill the jam in the thumbprint to prevent overflow while baking.
Variations of Jam Thumbprint Cookies You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with different flavors! Consider using almond thumbprint cookie recipe with almond flour or adding zest for a citrusy twist. You can also try gluten-free options by substituting with almond flour or gluten-free baking blends. For a festive touch, use seasonal jams like cranberry or fig.
For more information on gluten-free baking, check out this guide. If you’re interested in other delicious cookie recipes, visit this page for more ideas. You can also explore healthy alternatives to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Print
Jam Thumbprint Cookies: 14 Secrets for Perfect Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully buttery and tender jam thumbprint cookies, filled with your favorite jam and topped with a sweet almond glaze. These classic cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, tea time, or anytime you crave a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat with a burst of fruity flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 ¼ cups (280 grams) all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup jam (raspberry, strawberry, marmalade, or any preferred kind)
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the pure vanilla extract and salt until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, beating on low speed just until combined.
- Shape the dough into a ball using your hands; wrap tightly with plastic cling wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large half sheet baking pan with parchment paper.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Place the balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Press your thumb or the back of a small spoon into the center of each dough ball to create an indentation for the jam.
- Spoon a small amount of your chosen jam into each indentation carefully.
- Place the baking sheet with the jam-filled cookies in the refrigerator while the oven finishes preheating.
- Bake the cookies for 13-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, almond extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk. Add additional milk until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.
- Using a spoon or piping bag, drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.
- Let the glazed cookies sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours to allow the glaze to firm up.
Notes
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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