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Jam Drops (Thumbprint Cookies) Recipe

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.

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Notes

  • Use softened butter for easier mixing and better texture.
  • Chilling the dough before shaping can help prevent spreading during baking.
  • Choose a thick jam to avoid excess spreading.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Keywords: Jam Drops, Thumbprint Cookies, Jam Cookies, Holiday Cookies, Vanilla Cookies, Homemade Cookies