Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies

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Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies with a sweet jam-filled center — that’s what you get with these Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies. Each bite delivers rich, crumbly shortbread-style texture with the fruity pop of your favorite jam. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday tray, a weekend treat, or a cozy tea-time snack, they are as pretty as they are satisfying.

What makes these cookies special is their simplicity. With a short ingredient list and a forgiving dough, they’re an ideal choice for beginner bakers or anyone looking to whip up a nostalgic treat. The thumbprint in the center, traditionally filled with raspberry or strawberry jam, creates a jewel-like appearance that turns a basic butter cookie into a showstopper.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get the best texture and shape for your Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies, it’s important to use the right tools:

• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: This helps cream the butter and sugar thoroughly, which is key for the cookies’ soft texture.
• Mixing Bowls: Use a medium and a large bowl for dry and wet ingredient prep. Having designated bowls simplifies cleanup.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accuracy matters in baking. These ensure the right ratio of ingredients.
• Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier while ensuring even baking.
• Small Spoon or Cookie Scoop: Keeps your cookie size consistent for even baking.
• Your Thumb or the Back of a Measuring Spoon: To create that signature indentation for the jam. If you prefer, a rounded teaspoon works perfectly too.
• Cooling Rack: Crucial for letting the cookies cool evenly without becoming soggy underneath.

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Ingredients for the Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies

• Unsalted Butter: The rich base for the dough. Using unsalted lets you control the salt level.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with that light, tender crumb.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and depth to balance the buttery richness.
• All-Purpose Flour: The structural element that holds the cookies together.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors.
• Jam or Preserves (raspberry, strawberry, apricot, etc.): The heart of each cookie. It adds color, fruitiness, and a soft, chewy contrast to the buttery bite.

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How To Make the Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. This step is essential for a light, tender cookie base.

Step 2: Add Vanilla and Mix

Stir in the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure it’s evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps firm it up, making it easier to roll and prevents spreading in the oven.

Step 5: Shape and Indent

Scoop out 1-inch balls and roll them smooth. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or a rounded teaspoon to gently press an indentation into each ball.

Step 6: Fill with Jam

Add about 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen jam into each indentation. Don’t overfill or it may bubble over during baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

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How to Serve and Store Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies

These cookies are best served once fully cooled, allowing the jam centers to set for a gooey-chewy texture against the crisp butter base. Pair them with hot tea, coffee, or even a cold glass of milk. For a fancier twist, dust them lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

To store, place the cookies in an airtight container with parchment between layers to prevent sticking. They stay fresh at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like to make them ahead, the dough freezes beautifully for up to 2 months—just shape and freeze the unbaked balls (without jam), then thaw and fill before baking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the jam from leaking out?

Make sure your thumbprint indentation isn’t too shallow or too deep. Too shallow and the jam will slide off; too deep and it may leak through cracks. Aim for a rounded well.

Can I use store-bought cookie dough?

It’s possible, but homemade dough delivers the best buttery flavor and texture. If you’re short on time, choose a sugar cookie base for closest results.

Which jam flavor works best?

Raspberry and strawberry are classic, but you can use apricot, blackberry, or even lemon curd for a bright zing. Just avoid jams with large fruit chunks.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. The cookies may be slightly more delicate, so handle with care.

How do I fix cracked edges?

Cracking can happen if the dough is too cold or too dry. Let the dough warm slightly after chilling, and roll it smoothly before pressing the thumbprint.

Do these cookies travel well?

Yes! Just make sure they are fully cooled and packed with care—a snug tin with parchment between layers is perfect for gifting or shipping.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Whipped Shortbread Cookies with a delicate, buttery texture.
• Chocolate Crinkle Sandwich Cookies for a fudgy bite with soft ganache.
• Lemon Churro Cookies if you’re craving citrusy warmth with cinnamon sugar.
• Peanut Butter Texas Sheet Cake to bring that big bold flavor to your dessert table.
• Carrot Pound Cake with Vanilla Glaze for a moist and spiced sliceable treat.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with classic raspberry jam or try something wild like fig or lemon curd?

I love seeing how everyone adds their own twist. Questions are always welcome, and sharing is encouraged—let’s make sweet memories together!

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