Butter Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Butter Thumbprint Cookies are a classic treat that combines a tender, buttery base with a sweet burst of fruity jam. These delightful cookies are perfect for sharing during holidays or anytime you crave a simple yet satisfying dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup fruit jam (raspberry, strawberry, or apricot)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Step 3: Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until the dough comes together.
5. Step 5: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Step 6: Use your thumb or a small spoon to gently press an indentation into the center of each dough ball.
7. Step 7: Spoon about ½ teaspoon of your chosen jam into each indentation.
8. Step 8: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cookie edges are lightly golden.
9. Step 9: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough.
• Use different jams or preserves to customize the flavor – apricot and raspberry are classic favorites.
• If the dough feels too soft to shape, chill it in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before rolling.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to two weeks. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave for a warm, soft treat.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter for this recipe?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid the cookies tasting too salty.

What if I don’t have fruit jam on hand?

You can substitute with chocolate spread, lemon curd, or even caramel sauce for a different flavor twist.

Butter Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 90 reviews

Butter Thumbprint Cookies are delightful buttery treats with a soft, tender texture and a sweet jam filling at the center. These classic cookies combine a rich vanilla-scented dough with your choice of raspberry, strawberry, or apricot jam, making them perfect for holiday celebrations or anytime you crave a simple, homemade cookie.

• Author: Kai
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup fruit jam (raspberry, strawberry, or apricot)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Make the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Then add the vanilla extract and mix it fully into the creamed butter. Slowly add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture, stirring until the dough just comes together without overmixing.
3. Shape the Cookies: Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls using your hands or a cookie scoop to ensure uniform sizes. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading during baking. Use your thumb or a small spoon to gently press an indentation into the center of each dough ball to create a well for the jam filling.
4. Fill the Indentation: Spoon approximately ½ teaspoon of your chosen fruit jam into the indentation of each cookie. Be careful not to overfill to prevent the jam from spilling over while baking.
5. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies begin to turn a light golden brown, indicating they are baked through but still soft in the center.
6. Cool the Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up. Then transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
7. Serve & Enjoy: Once the cookies have fully cooled, serve them as delightful finger treats perfect for festive occasions or everyday indulgence.

Notes

• Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature to achieve the ideal creamy texture when creaming with sugar.
• Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added to keep the cookies tender and prevent them from becoming tough.
• Experiment with different jam flavors according to your preference, but thicker jams hold better during baking.
• These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For a festive look, consider dusting the cookies lightly with powdered sugar once cooled.

Keywords: Thumbprint cookies, butter cookies, jam cookies, holiday cookies, homemade cookies, baked desserts