Description
Buttery, soft, and filled with sweet fruity goodness, Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies are a must-try for any baking enthusiast. These easy cookies are perfect for any season—whether you’re prepping quick holiday cookies, searching for kid-friendly snack ideas, or need a classic, foolproof dessert to impress guests. With pantry staples and customizable jam fillings, this easy recipe delivers beautiful, bakery-style results every time. Great for easy desserts, holiday baking, quick sweets, and homemade food gifts.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2⁄3 cup granulated sugar
1⁄2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1⁄2 cup fruit jam or preserves (strawberry, raspberry, or apricot)
1⁄4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
2. Mix in vanilla extract, salt, and almond extract if using.
3. Gradually add flour and mix until a soft dough forms.
4. Wrap and chill dough for 30–60 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Roll tablespoon-sized dough balls and coat with granulated sugar.
7. Gently press a thumbprint or rounded utensil into the center of each ball.
8. Fill each indent with 1⁄2 teaspoon jam using a small spoon or piping bag.
9. Bake for 12–14 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
10. Cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
Chill the dough to help shape cookies and prevent spreading.
Use thicker jams to avoid overflow while baking.
Dust with powdered sugar after cooling for an elegant finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: easy dessert, jam cookies, thumbprint cookies, holiday cookies, butter cookies, cookie gift ideas