Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies

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Soft, buttery, and filled with vibrant jam, Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies are a timeless treat that brings back warm, nostalgic memories of holiday baking and cozy afternoons. These cookies strike the perfect balance between tender shortbread-style dough and sweet, fruity centers, making them an irresistible addition to your dessert table.

Whether you fill them with raspberry, strawberry, or apricot preserves, these cookies look stunning on a cookie platter and taste even better. Their simple elegance makes them perfect for gifting, festive occasions, or just enjoying with a cup of coffee.

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What Kind of Jam Should I Use?

The beauty of thumbprint cookies lies in their versatility. Raspberry jam is a classic choice with its bold tartness, while apricot and strawberry lend a softer, sweeter finish. Choose a thick, seedless jam that won’t spread too much during baking. You can even use lemon curd or Nutella for a modern twist.

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Ingredients for the Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies

• Unsalted Butter: Forms the base of the dough, providing rich flavor and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a lightly crisp exterior.
• Egg Yolk: Contributes to the dough’s tenderness and gives it a golden hue.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the cookie’s flavor and adds warmth.
• All-Purpose Flour: Gives the cookies structure while keeping them delicate.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens the flavor.
• Fruit Jam or Preserves: The jewel in the center of each cookie—adds color, sweetness, and fruity contrast.

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How To Make the Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This creates air pockets for a delicate texture.

Step 2: Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla

Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract. These enrich the dough and build flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the flour and salt to the mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix—stop as soon as the flour is just combined.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Create the Thumbprint

Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to gently press an indent into the center of each ball.

Step 6: Fill and Chill

Spoon a small amount of jam into each indent. Chill the tray for 15 minutes to help the cookies hold their shape.

Step 7: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–14 minutes until the edges are just golden. Cool completely before serving.

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Serving and Storing These Cookies

Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies are best enjoyed slightly warm or fully cooled. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If stacking, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They also freeze well for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature before serving.

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What to Serve With Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies?

Coffee or Tea

The buttery base pairs perfectly with a hot cup of black coffee or Earl Grey.

Holiday Cookie Platter

Combine them with Snowball Cookies or Chocolate Crinkle Cookies for a festive assortment.

Fresh Berries

Serve alongside raspberries or strawberries for a light, fruity bite.

Whipped Cream or Vanilla Ice Cream

Add a dollop on the side for a decadent touch.

Cheese Board

The sweet jam makes a fun counterpoint to sharp cheeses like cheddar or brie.

Hot Cocoa

Perfect for winter gatherings—dip them right in for a melty treat.

Fruit Salad

A bright and refreshing contrast to the cookie’s richness.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If these Classic Butter Thumbprint Cookies made your day sweeter, you’ll want to check out these irresistible creations:

• Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe for a creamy, tangy surprise.
• Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe with a zingy citrus finish.
• Brownie Cookies Recipe for chewy chocolatey goodness.
• Coffee Cookies Recipe to double up on your caffeine delight.
• Cut-Out Sugar Cookies Recipe perfect for decorating with the kids.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know how yours turned out. Did you use raspberry jam or get creative with lemon curd? Maybe a mix of both?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Drop your thoughts or questions in the comments—let’s bake something wonderful together!

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