Strawberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies

Name: Strawberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 cup strawberry jam

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Strawberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies, especially when the strawberries are in season. The sweet, tart jam combined with buttery cookies creates the perfect balance of flavors. Plus, the thumbprint technique is not only fun but also a fantastic way to showcase a beautiful filling. These cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to make them over and over again!

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:10:24.299Z

When I first baked Strawberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they turned out. The trick is to properly chill the dough before baking, which helps keep the cookies from spreading too much. I experimented with various jams, and the fresh strawberry jam truly stole the show, adding a burst of flavor to every bite. Prepare for the delicious aroma to fill your kitchen!

These cookies are perfect to make for gatherings, and the process of creating the thumbprint in the center is a delightful step for kids and adults alike. I always encourage using homemade jam if you have it on hand, as it adds a personal touch and depth of flavor that store-bought just can't match. Trust me, they will be a huge hit!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        The perfect blend of sweet and tart from the strawberry jam
Buttery cookie base that melts in your mouth
Fun and easy to make, perfect for kids and adults

      

Mastering the Thumbprint Technique

Creating the perfect thumbprint is key to making these cookies stand out. When pressing your thumb or the back of a spoon into the dough, ensure the indentation is deep enough to hold a generous amount of strawberry jam without breaking apart the cookie. This technique not only provides a beautiful presentation but also ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor. If the dough feels too soft to shape, a short chill in the refrigerator can help it firm up before indentation.

It’s important to work quickly while shaping the cookies after chilling. The dough may soften if left at room temperature for too long, which can lead to spreading during baking. For a neat finish, consider using a cookie scoop to create uniform balls of dough. This will ensure even baking and make the assembly process smoother while maintaining the intended appearance of each cookie.

Choosing the Right Strawberry Jam

The quality of the strawberry jam can significantly affect the overall taste of your cookies. Opt for a high-quality, all-natural jam with real fruit content and minimal additives. If you prefer a less sweet option, consider using a fruit spread or making your own quick homemade jam. For those who enjoy a twist, try using other fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot to create unique flavor variations that still complement the buttery cookie base.

Pay attention to the consistency of the jam as well; it should be thick enough to hold its shape during baking without overflowing. If your jam is too runny, you might want to cook it down slightly on the stove to evaporate excess moisture before using. This ensures that each cookie will have a perfect jewel-like filling that doesn’t seep out while baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Strawberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies can be made ahead of time and stored effectively. Once baked and cooled completely, they can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the freezer between layers of parchment paper in a sealed container. They’ll maintain their texture for about three months, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat whenever you crave it.

If you plan to make the dough ahead, you can refrigerate it for up to two days before baking. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes if it becomes too firm to roll. This ensures you can still achieve that perfect thumbprint without compromising the dough’s integrity.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for these delightful cookies:

For the Cookies:

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

These ingredients come together to create a delicious batch of cookies!

Instructions

Here’s how to make Strawberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies:

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.

Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading during baking.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Shape the Cookies

Once chilled, roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.

Add the Jam

Fill each thumbprint with a teaspoon of strawberry jam.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Enjoy these delicious cookies warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of lemon zest to the dough for enhanced flavor.

Baking and Cooling Tips

Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake! The baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven. You want to achieve a light golden edge, which typically takes 10-12 minutes. Make sure not to overbake them to maintain their soft texture. If you notice your cookies browning too quickly, consider lowering the oven temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) and extending the baking time slightly to achieve the right doneness.

After removing the cookies from the oven, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them set, making it easier to transfer them to a wire rack. Cooling too quickly can cause the cookies to crack or lose shape, so don’t rush this process.

Flavor Variations and Additions

Feel free to experiment with spices to enhance the flavor profile of your cookies. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the buttery base. You could also incorporate finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into the dough for added texture and richness—just be sure to adjust the quantity of flour slightly if adding a significant amount.

If you're a chocolate lover, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decadent twist. Just be sure to let the chocolate set before storing them to prevent sticking. These delightful variations can make your Strawberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies even more exciting and enjoyable!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of jam?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors like raspberry, apricot, or even chocolate hazelnut spread.

→ How do I store these cookies?

Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What if I don't have butter?

You can substitute with margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative, keeping the proportions the same.