Jam Drop Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Jam Drops, also known as Thumbprint Cookies, are a delightful treat combining buttery shortbread with a burst of fruity jam. These cookies are simple to make and perfect for sharing during holidays or any cozy afternoon tea.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup fruit jam of your choice
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and mix until a smooth dough forms.
- Step 2: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently press an indentation into the center of each ball. Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of jam.
- Step 3: Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Variations
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping to make it easier to handle and to prevent spreading while baking.
- Swap granulated sugar for brown sugar to add a hint of caramel flavor.
- Try different jams like raspberry, apricot, or blueberry to vary the taste.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle a little coarse sugar on top of the jam before baking.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. These cookies are best enjoyed within a few days for optimal freshness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought jam or should I make homemade?
Both work beautifully. Store-bought jam offers convenience and consistent flavor, while homemade jam allows you to customize sweetness and ingredients.
How do I prevent the jam from spreading too much during baking?
Use thick, well-set jam and avoid overfilling the indentation. Chilling the dough before baking also helps keep the cookies intact and reduces spreading.
PrintJam Drop Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Classic Jam Drops, also known as Thumbprint Cookies, are buttery, tender cookies with a sweet jam center. These delightful treats are perfect for tea time or festive occasions and feature a simple dough that is pressed with a thumb indentation and filled with your favorite fruit jam before baking to golden perfection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Filling
- 1/2 cup fruit jam (such as raspberry, strawberry, or apricot)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix until the dough just comes together, avoiding over-mixing.
- Form dough balls: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into smooth balls. Place the balls evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Create the thumbprint indentation: Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, gently press a small well into the center of each dough ball, making sure not to press through the bottom of the cookie.
- Fill with jam: Spoon approximately 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen jam into each indentation, filling it generously but not overflowing.
- Bake the cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the jam is set.
- Cool and serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Jam Drops with a cup of tea or coffee.
Notes
- Use chilled dough if it becomes too soft to handle, chilling for 15-20 minutes helps.
- Choose your favorite jam flavor to customize the taste.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a decorative touch, you can dust the cooled cookies lightly with powdered sugar.
Keywords: Jam Drops, Thumbprint Cookies, Jam Cookies, Butter Cookies, Easy Dessert, Tea Cookies
