Introduction

Jam Drops, also known as thumbprint cookies, are delightful buttery treats filled with sweet jam. These charming cookies are perfect for any occasion and easy to make at home.

Jam Drops (Thumbprint Cookies) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 cup butter, softened
2/3 cup sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup jam of your choice

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 2: Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
Step 3: Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently press a small indentation into the center of each ball.
Step 4: Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of jam.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 6: Remove from oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

For a burst of flavor, try using different jams like raspberry, apricot, or strawberry.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling to make it easier to handle and to keep the cookies from spreading too much.
Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness if desired.

Storage

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To refresh, allow frozen cookies to come to room temperature before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use jam with seeds for these cookies?

Yes, you can use any type of jam, but smoother jams spread better and create a nicer filling texture.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Chilling the dough before baking and ensuring your butter is not too soft can help maintain the cookie shape during baking.

Jam Drops (Thumbprint Cookies) Recipe

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Jam Drops, also known as Thumbprint Cookies, are delightful buttery cookies filled with your choice of fruit jam. These classic treats combine a tender, crumbly cookie base with a sweet burst of jam, making them perfect for teatime or festive occasions.

Author: Maya
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

Scale

Cookie Dough

1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup (133g) granulated sugar
2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Filling

1/3 cup (100g) fruit jam (such as raspberry, strawberry, or apricot)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Add the vanilla extract and mix to combine. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix on low speed until just combined and dough forms.
Form the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 1-inch (2.5cm) balls and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to gently press a small indentation into the center of each cookie ball, creating a well for the jam.
Fill with Jam: Carefully spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen jam into each indentation, taking care not to overfill to avoid spilling during baking.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden and the jam is set. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up and maintain shape.

Notes

Use room temperature butter to ensure proper creaming and cookie texture.
You can substitute fruit jam with lemon curd or chocolate spread for variation.
Do not overfill jam to prevent it from spilling over during baking.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

Keywords: jam drops, thumbprint cookies, buttery cookies, jam-filled cookies, classic cookies, baked cookies, dessert cookies