Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Jam Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 125 reviews
  • Author: Stacy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Jam Thumbprint Cookies are buttery, tender, and filled with your favorite jam for a sweet, fruity surprise. Topped with a delicate almond glaze, they make the perfect delightful treat for any occasion, combining classic cookie texture with a burst of jammy flavor.


Ingredients

Scale

For the cookies:

  • 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 your choice)

For the glaze:

  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 12 tablespoons milk

Instructions

  1. Make the thumbprint cookie dough: Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  2. Add flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract and salt, beating until fully combined on medium speed.
  3. Add flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour while beating on low speed just until the dough comes together; it will be slightly crumbly.
  4. Chill dough: Shape the dough into a ball with your hands, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour to firm up.
  5. Prepare for baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  6. Form the cookies: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of chilled dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Place them spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Create thumbprints: Make an indentation in the center of each ball with your thumb or the back of a small spoon.
  8. Fill with jam: Spoon a small amount of jam into each indentation, careful not to overfill so the jam doesn’t spill during baking.
  9. Chill before baking: Place the baking sheet with prepared cookies into the refrigerator while the oven preheats to keep their shape.
  10. Bake: Bake the cookies for 13-15 minutes or until the edges start to turn a light golden brown.
  11. Cool cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  12. Prepare glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, almond extract, and 1 tablespoon milk until smooth.
  13. Adjust glaze consistency: Add remaining milk one teaspoon at a time until the glaze reaches a drizzle-able consistency; add more sugar if too thin or more milk if too thick.
  14. Glaze the cookies: Using a spoon or piping bag fitted with a fine tip, drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and let set for 1-2 hours before serving.

Notes

  • You can use any jam you prefer such as raspberry, strawberry, or marmalade. Homemade jam without pectin is recommended for best flavor.
  • Store cookies in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate to keep fresh for up to 10 days.
  • To freeze, place jam-filled cookies uncovered on a parchment-lined sheet and freeze until firm (1-2 hours), then transfer to an airtight container and store up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge or room temperature before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 130
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 55mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg