Name: Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup light brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 ¼ teaspoons vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon almond extract; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; ½ cup raspberry jam (or your favorite flavor); Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting); Sprinkles (optional); Melted white chocolate (optional, for drizzling)

These Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies are a classic holiday treat that’s both beautiful and delicious. Buttery shortbread cookies with a sweet and slightly tart raspberry jam filling, they’re perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive and Flavorful: These cookies have a classic holiday flavor combination of buttery shortbread and sweet raspberry jam.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these cookies are surprisingly easy to bake.
Versatile: You can customize them with your favorite jam or add festive sprinkles for a holiday touch.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bake a batch of these delightful cookies:

Butter: Room temperature, for a light and fluffy texture.
Sugar: Adds sweetness.
Light brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses flavor and helps with browning.
Egg: Binds the ingredients together.
Vanilla extract and almond extract: Adds a touch of warmth and flavor.
All-purpose flour: Provides structure and texture.
Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become light and airy.
Raspberry jam: Or your favorite jam, for the sweet and slightly tart filling.
Powdered sugar: Optional, for dusting.
Sprinkles: Optional, for a festive touch.
Melted white chocolate: Optional, for drizzling.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight.

Step 2: Shape and Fill

Remove the dough from the refrigerator about 10 minutes before using. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Make an indentation in the center of each cookie using a small, rounded measuring spoon or your thumb. Fill each indentation with ½ teaspoon of raspberry jam.

Step 3: Chill and Bake

Chill the cookies for 15 minutes to prevent spreading. Sprinkle with additional sprinkles, if desired. Bake for 10-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step¹ 4: Decorate (Optional)

Dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar, drizzle with melted white chocolate, or make a simple powdered sugar glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use room temperature ingredients: Room temperature butter and eggs will cream together more easily, resulting in a lighter and fluffier cookie.
Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
Chill the dough: Chilling the dough overnight allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to handle.

How to Serve Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies

Holiday Treat: These cookies are perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.
Gift Idea: Package them up in a cute tin or box for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Afternoon Snack: Enjoy them as a sweet and satisfying afternoon snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days.

Freezing

Flash-freeze the cookies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of jam?
Yes, you can use any type of jam you like, such as strawberry, apricot, or even marmalade.

Can I add other ingredients to these cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins to the dough.

Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, you can use vegan butter and egg substitutes.

How can I make these cookies crispier?
Bake them for a few minutes longer, or use a higher oven temperature.

There you have it! A classic and delicious recipe for Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies that’s easy to make and perfect for the holidays or any occasion. Enjoy!