Introduction

Jam Drops, also known as Thumbprint Cookies, are delightful bite-sized treats that combine buttery cookie dough with a sweet burst of jam. These classic cookies are simple to make and perfect for sharing or enjoying with your favorite tea or coffee.

Jam Drops (Thumbprint Cookies) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup jam of your choice (strawberry, raspberry, or apricot work well)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 2: Add the vanilla extract and gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 3: Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to gently create an indentation in the center of each dough ball. Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of jam.
Step 4: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping the cookies.
Try different jam flavors or even a chocolate ganache for the filling to switch up the taste.
If you prefer a crispier cookie, bake a minute or two longer, watching closely to avoid burning.

Storage

Store Jam Drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw at room temperature before serving. To freshen them, warm briefly in a low oven.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of jam for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any jam you like. Experiment with flavors like blueberry, peach, or mixed berry to find your favorite combination.

How do I prevent the jam from bubbling over during baking?

Use a small amount of jam in each indentation—about half a teaspoon—and avoid overfilling. This helps keep the jam from spilling over the edges while baking.

Jam Drops (Thumbprint Cookies) Recipe

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4.9 from 123 reviews

Jam Drops, also known as Thumbprint Cookies, are buttery, tender cookies with a delightful dollop of sweet jam in the center. These classic treats combine the rich flavor of vanilla-infused cookie dough with the vibrant sweetness of your favorite jam, making them perfect for tea time, holiday gatherings, or a simple homemade dessert.

Author: Kai
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Dough

1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Filling

1/2 cup (150g) jam (strawberry, raspberry, or your choice)

Instructions

Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes and is essential for creating a tender cookie texture.
Make the Dough: Add the vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar, then slowly incorporate the all-purpose flour. Mix until the dough comes together but do not overmix; the dough should be soft but pliable.
Shape the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, make an indentation in the center of each ball.
Fill with Jam: Spoon approximately 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen jam into the indentation of each cookie, being careful not to overfill to prevent the jam from spreading too much during baking.
Bake Until Golden: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The jam should appear set but still moist.
Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your jam drops once cooled.