Holiday gatherings wouldn’t be complete without a sweet treat, and what better than warm, buttery thumbprint cookies filled with luscious fruit jam? These Best Holiday Thumbprint Cookies Jam Recipe are not only delicious but also simple to make. Their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with the vibrant flavors of fruit preserves makes them a favorite during the festive season.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 120
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 50mg
Why Make This Best Holiday Thumbprint Cookies Jam Recipe
Thumbprint cookies are a classic holiday treat loved by people of all ages. They are not just adorable but offer endless possibilities with different jam flavors. With a buttery base and sweet jam center, each bite is a delightful experience. This recipe is perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, dessert tables, or just to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. Plus, they come together quickly, making them an excellent choice for last-minute baking.
How to Make Best Holiday Thumbprint Cookies Jam Recipe
Creating these thumbprint cookies is a straightforward process that delivers impressive results. Follow these easy steps to bring these delightful treats to life.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup fruit jam (such as raspberry, strawberry, or apricot)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and won’t stick to the pan.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process takes about 2-3 minutes and helps to incorporate air for a tender cookie. Then beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Cooking
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until everything is well combined. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to create an indentation in the center of each ball. Fill each indentation with a small amount of fruit jam. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
Step 4: Finishing
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
How to Serve Best Holiday Thumbprint Cookies Jam Recipe
These cookies are best served warm or at room temperature. They are perfect as a standalone treat or accompanied by a glass of milk or a cozy cup of hot chocolate. For an elegant touch, arrange them on a festive platter to impress your guests at holiday parties.
How to Store Best Holiday Thumbprint Cookies Jam Recipe
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Best Holiday Thumbprint Cookies Jam Recipe
- Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, as this will affect the texture of your cookies.
- Experiment with various jam flavors to find your favorites. Apricot, peach, and even chocolate hazelnut spreads can make delicious alternatives to traditional fruit jams.
- Don’t overbake the cookies; they should be light golden and soft when you remove them, as they will firm up as they cool.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, to the dough for added texture.
- Chocolate Lovers: Substitute half of the flour with cocoa powder for chocolate thumbprint cookies. Fill the indentations with chocolate ganache.
- Spiced Cookie: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a seasonal spice twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before scooping. -
What type of jam works best?
Any variety of fruit jam works well! Raspberry, strawberry, and apricot are popular choices, but feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors. -
Why did my cookies spread too much?
If the dough is too warm or the oven temperature is too low, your cookies may spread more than desired. Always pre-chill your cookie dough if needed. -
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute, but it may affect the overall flavor and texture slightly. -
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Conclusion
These Best Holiday Thumbprint Cookies Jam Recipe are a perfect way to celebrate the festive season. With their buttery richness and delightful fruity filling, every bite is a testament to holiday cheer. Easy to make and fun to customize, these cookies will surely become a beloved staple in your holiday baking repertoire. So gather your family in the kitchen and enjoy creating these delicious treats together! Happy baking!
