Strawberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies

Name: Strawberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup strawberry jam

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore baking cookies, and these Strawberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies have become a staple in my kitchen. The combination of buttery cookie dough and sweet strawberry jam creates a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion. Each bite is bursting with flavor, and the process of creating those cute little thumbprints is so much fun! Whether I’m whipping them up for a family gathering or just a cozy night in, these cookies never fail to bring a smile to my face.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-07T13:10:12.390Z

Baking these Strawberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies was a delightful experience that brought back memories of my childhood. I remember standing next to my grandma, watching her create these sweet treats, and today, I find joy in making them for my loved ones. This method not only ensures a wonderfully soft cookie but also allows the strawberry jam to shine in each thumbprint, giving you the perfect balance of flavors.

One tip I discovered is to chill the dough for at least 15 minutes before shaping. This step helps maintain the integrity of the cookies and prevents them from spreading too much while baking. Once they come out of the oven, just let them cool slightly before devouring; the warm jam is simply irresistible!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Sweet strawberry jam adds a fruity twist.
Perfect for sharing during gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The success of Strawberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies largely hinges on the quality of your ingredients. For the best flavor, opt for a premium brand of strawberry jam, as it contributes not only sweetness but also the fruitiness that complements the buttery cookie base. If you're feeling adventurous, consider making homemade jam from fresh strawberries, which can enhance the overall taste and texture of the cookies. This homemade jam can provide a fresher, more vibrant flavor than store-bought varieties.

Butter plays a crucial role in the texture of the cookies. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dough, ensuring a balanced flavor. Be sure to soften your butter naturally at room temperature for about an hour before you begin mixing. This softening process is vital as it helps to create a light and fluffy texture when creamed with sugar, contributing to that coveted melt-in-your-mouth sensation.

Perfecting the Dough

Chilling the cookie dough is an essential step that shouldn’t be skipped. Refrigerating the dough for at least 15 minutes not only helps to firm it up, making it easier to handle, but also results in a better texture. If you're in a hurry, you can divide the dough into smaller portions to chill them more quickly, but ideally try to stick to the full chilling time. An adequately chilled dough ensures your cookies hold their shape during baking, achieving that perfect thumbprint look.

When shaping your cookies, uniformity is key. Rolling the dough into 1-inch balls ensures that they'll bake evenly. A useful tip is to slightly moisten your fingertips or use a non-stick spray on your hands when forming the balls to prevent them from sticking. Make sure to create the thumbprints gently; pressing too hard might make them too deep, which can lead to excessive spreading during baking, resulting in less defined thumbprints.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for these delicious cookies:

Cookie Dough

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Filling

1 cup strawberry jam

Make sure to measure all ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Strawberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.

Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to firm up.

Shape Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use your thumb to create a small indentation in the center of each cookie.

Fill with Jam

Spoon a small amount of strawberry jam into each indentation.

Bake

Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

Enjoy your freshly baked Strawberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try using different flavors of jam, like raspberry or apricot, for variety.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Strawberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Let the cookies cool completely before placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply let the cookies thaw at room temperature. This way, you can have your homemade treats available whenever a sweet craving strikes.

Serving these cookies alongside a cup of tea or coffee can enhance the overall experience. The buttery flavor of the cookies pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages. Additionally, you could offer a selection of different jams—like raspberry or apricot—allowing guests to customize their cookies when they serve them at a gathering. This twist adds a personal touch and can make your gathering feel extra special.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different types of fillings beyond strawberry jam. Using a lemon curd, or chocolate hazelnut spread, can create exciting flavor combinations that might surprise your taste buds. If going for a fruity filling, consider peach or apricot for a delightful change. Just make sure the filling isn’t too runny; otherwise, it can overflow during baking. The goal is to have a filling that stays intact while adding moisture and flavor.

If you want to add a hint of spice, consider incorporating a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into your cookie dough. This subtle change can elevate the overall taste and complement the sweetness of the jam. Another option is to sprinkle some chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, into the dough for added texture. This not only adds crunch but also enhances the flavor profile, making the cookies even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can substitute with margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative for a vegan option.

→ Can I freeze the cookies?

Yes, these cookies freeze well! Layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ How do I store leftover cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.