As the first snowfall blankets the ground and holiday lights twinkle in every window, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. These Best Christmas Thumbprint Cookies, with their tender shortbread bases and sweet jam centers, have a way of making every moment feel special. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe during my annual holiday baking spree, and it’s quickly become a cherished favorite among family and friends.
Each buttery bite is a sweet reminder of festive traditions, making them a must-have for any holiday cookie platter. Perfectly crispy on the edges yet soft in the middle, they’re not just cookies—they’re little bites of joy that bring smiles to everyone who enjoys them. Whether you’re hosting a cookie exchange or just want a festive treat for yourself, this thumbprint cookies recipe is the perfect way to spread some holiday cheer!
Why are thumbprint cookies a holiday favorite?
Rich, Buttery Texture: These thumbprint cookies are melt-in-your-mouth delicious, combining a tender shortbread base with a delightful jam center.
Festive and Fun: Their distinct shape and bright jelly filling make them visually appealing on any holiday platter.
Easy to Make: Even beginner bakers can impress with this straightforward process—perfect for families or those looking to tackle a festive baking project.
Versatile Flavors: Switch up the jam with your favorites, whether you love raspberry, apricot, or something more adventurous. Each variation adds its own flair!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for cookie exchanges, gifting, or simply bringing a touch of joy to your festivities, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around.
Thumbprint Cookies Recipe Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to make these delightful goodies!
For the Cookies
- Salted Butter – Provides richness and structure; make sure it’s softened for easy creaming.
- White Sugar – Sweetens and contributes to texture; you can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, aiding in the slight rise of cookies for that perfect bite.
- Large Egg – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; using one at room temperature ensures better mixing.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of the cookies; feel free to swap with almond extract for a unique twist.
- All-Purpose Flour – The main ingredient that gives structure; gluten-free flour can be used for a delightful alternative.
- Jam (Raspberry or Apricot recommended) – Adds sweetness and flavor; opt for thick jams to keep it from running when baked.
These ingredients combine to create the perfect thumbprint cookies recipe, bringing the warmth of holiday baking right into your home!
How to Make Thumbprint Cookies
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) so it’s ready for baking these delightful thumbprint cookies.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer, beat 1 cup softened salted butter and 1 cup white sugar with ½ tsp baking powder for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy. Don’t forget to scrape the sides for even mixing!
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Add Egg and Vanilla: Incorporate 1 large egg and 2 tsp of pure vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture, beating until everything is well combined.
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Incorporate Flour: Gradually add 2½ cups all-purpose flour to the mixture on low speed. Mix until just combined to keep the texture tender and avoid tough cookies.
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Shape Dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 1 inch apart on a baking sheet. Use your thumb to gently press down the center to create little wells for the jam.
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Fill with Jam: Spoon about ½ tsp of your favorite jam (raspberry or apricot recommended) into each well, just enough to fill without overflowing.
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Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, rotating the sheet halfway through to ensure even baking. Keep an eye on them until they’re lightly golden.
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Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Thumbprint Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your thumbprint cookies with these delightful twists!
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Jam Swap: Use different jams like strawberry, blueberry, or orange marmalade to explore new flavors. Each jam adds its unique sweetness and color to your cookies.
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Nutty Addition: Mix in ½ cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the dough for a delightful crunch. The contrast between the smooth jam and crunchy texture is simply irresistible.
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Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies to elevate their presentation and enhance the flavor. This simple step brings a luxurious touch to your festive treats.
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Spiced Sugar: Roll the dough balls in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking for a warm, spiced flavor enhancement. This variation adds a lovely depth that complements the jam beautifully.
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Your cookies will be just as delicious and made accessible for everyone at the table!
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Coconut Twist: Incorporate unsweetened shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical flair. This added ingredient gives the cookies a chewy texture that pairs wonderfully with fruity jams.
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Almond Flavor: Swap vanilla extract with almond extract for a fragrant change. The nutty aroma will take these cookies to new heights, making them an unexpected holiday favorite.
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Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough for an adventurous kick. It can create a tantalizing contrast with the sweetness of the jam, sure to surprise your taste buds!
What to Serve with Best Christmas Thumbprint Cookies?
These charming thumbprint cookies make delightful companions to festive gatherings, inviting warmth and joy to your holiday table.
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Hot Cocoa: A rich, creamy cocoa enhances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a heartwarming pairing that’s perfect for chilly winter days.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the buttery texture, creating a delightful contrast that delights the senses.
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Fruit Medley: Fresh fruit adds a zesty brightness to your dessert spread, balancing the sweetness of the jam and providing a refreshing bite.
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Spiced Tea: This warming drink elevates the cookie experience, its aromatic spices connecting beautifully with the rich flavors of the thumbprint cookies.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses offers a savory counterpoint that enhances the nutty notes of the shortbread, making the whole experience more sophisticated.
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Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream brings extra creaminess, enhancing the overall indulgence of each bite while adding a touch of elegance.
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Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A drizzle of warm caramel adds a decadent touch and ties in with the sweetness, transforming the cookies into an indulgent treat.
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Mulled Wine: The warm spices in mulled wine enhance the holiday spirit, providing a cozy drink pairing that complements the flavors of the cookies beautifully.
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Coffee Blend: A delicious cup of coffee rounds off dessert perfectly, providing an aromatic contrast to the sweet fruity centers of the thumbprint cookies.
How to Store and Freeze Thumbprint Cookies
Room Temperature: Store thumbprint cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain softness, consider adding a slice of bread to the container.
Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, thumbprint cookies can also be kept in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Just be sure they’re in a sealed container to avoid drying out.
Freezer: These cookies freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy thawed thumbprint cookies, simply let them come to room temperature or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
Make Ahead Options
These thumbprint cookies are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator. To do this, simply follow the initial steps of the recipe, until you reach the dough stage, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This keeps the dough fresh and prevents it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, roll the chilled dough into balls, press the centers, fill with jam, and bake as instructed. You can also bake the cookies up to 2 days ahead of serving; just store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them just as delicious! Enjoy homemade treats with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Perfect Thumbprint Cookies
- Butter Consistency: Use softened but not melted butter to achieve the right texture; melted butter may lead to spreading cookies.
- Chill Time: Refrigerate the shaped dough for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape and prevent spreading during baking.
- Jam Filling: Avoid overflowing by using about ½ tsp of jam per cookie. This keeps the filling contained while baking.
- Indentation Check: Ensure your thumbprint is about ½ inch deep; if they puff up while baking, gently press them down again after a few minutes.
- Flour Mixing: Mix the flour until just combined to keep the cookies tender; overmixing can result in tough thumbprint cookies.
Best Christmas Thumbprint Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my butter is the right consistency?
Absolutely! The butter should be softened but not melted for the best results. It should have a slight give when pressed but maintain its shape. If you leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking, that should be perfect!
How should I store my thumbprint cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your thumbprint cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread inside the container—this little trick works wonders!
Can I freeze thumbprint cookies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze thumbprint cookies! I recommend first freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour until hard. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag to store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature.
What should I do if my cookies are spreading too much during baking?
Very! If your cookies spread too much, there are a few things to check: first, ensure your butter is softened and not melted. Also, chilling the shaped dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can greatly help maintain their shape. Lastly, be cautious not to overmix the dough, as that can lead to a tougher texture and increased spread.
Can I use different types of jam for my cookies?
Absolutely! You can get creative with your jam filling. While raspberry and apricot are traditional and delightful, feel free to substitute with strawberry, blueberry, or even a combination of your favorites for a unique twist!
Are these thumbprint cookies suitable for people with allergies?
I often suggest modifications to cater to dietary needs! These cookies contain gluten and dairy, so if you’re looking for alternatives, you can use gluten-free flour and dairy-free butter. Always check jam labels for allergens as well!
Delicious Thumbprint Cookies Recipe for Holiday Joy
Equipment
- - Stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup Salted Butter softened
- 1 cup White Sugar or brown sugar for deeper flavor
- 0.5 tsp Baking Powder for leavening
- 1 large Egg at room temperature
- 2 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract or almond extract
- 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour or gluten-free flour
- 0.5 tsp Jam Raspberry or Apricot recommended
Instructions
How to Make Thumbprint Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Cream together 1 cup of softened salted butter and 1 cup of white sugar with 0.5 tsp of baking powder for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add in 1 large egg and 2 tsp of pure vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually incorporate 2.5 cups of all-purpose flour on low speed until just combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 1 inch apart. Use your thumb to create wells for the jam.
- Fill each well with about 0.5 tsp of your chosen jam.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, rotating halfway through.
- Allow to cool on a wire rack after a few minutes on the baking sheet.