Lindsay Funston is the former Executive Editor at Delish, where she managed all food, culture, video and social content. She had worn many hats at the brand over the years: traveling the country in pursuit of pickles, creating gravity-defying "cheese pulls", and almost burning down the Delish kitchen with marshmallow cupcakes.
Is it even really Christmas without these classic, jammy thumbprint cookies? Here at Delish, we think not. These adorable Christmas cookies not only are the perfect sweet end to your holiday celebration, but are also the cutest homemade food gift for family and friends. You can even turn creative these sweet treats into a holiday activity for the whole fam to partake in. Have everyone grab their fave jam, and get to baking!
How do I avoid my thumbprints cracking or spreading?
It's true—this dough is firm, almost like a shortbread, so to make sure it doesn't crack, roll it into balls until smooth and firm, and then gently press your thumb in the center to make sure it doesn't crack. Gently. To avoid any spreading, make sure you're accurately measuring your butter! Too much butter—or not enough flour—will cause your cookies to spread too much in the oven, messing up their adorable, dainty shape.
What should I fill them with?
You can use any jam your heart desires! Our favorites are raspberry (always a crowd-pleaser) and apricot, but strawberry jam, blackberry jam, blueberry jam, and orange marmalade all work. If you want to go slightly more savory, even cranberry sauce or tomato jam will work!
Can I refrigerate this dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can refrigerate it either before or after forming your thumbprints. Just make sure you cover it tightly so the dough doesn't dry out—dry dough leads to cracking!
Can I freeze thumbprints?
For sure! If you want to freeze the dough, go ahead and scoop out the dough and make the thumb imprint in it beforehand. Wrap them up tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When you are ready to bake, fill the centers with your preferred jam and bake from frozen. The cookies will likely need a few extra minutes when baking from frozen.
How should I store my thumbprint cookies?
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to one month. Thaw out at room temperature when ready to enjoy!
Tried making this amazing holiday confection? Let us know how it went in the comments below!
- Yields:
- 35
- Prep Time:
- 5 mins
- Total Time:
- 40 mins
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 c.
all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp.
baking powder
- 1/2 tsp.
kosher salt
- 3/4 c.
(1 1/2 sticks) butter, softened
- 1/2 c.
granulated sugar
- 1
large egg
- 1 tsp.
pure vanilla extract
- 1/3 c.
assorted jams, for filling cookies
- Nutrition Information
- Calories2814 Fat164 gSaturated fat99 gTrans fat6 gCholesterol599 mgSodium1423 mgCarbohydrates301 gFiber6 gSugar101 gProtein34 gVitamin D4 mcgCalcium298 mgIron13 mgPotassium500 mg
- Note: The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.Powered by
Directions
- Step 1Preheat oven to 350º and line two baking sheets with parchment. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 2In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in egg and vanilla, then add dry ingredients in two batches until incorporated.
- Step 3Using a small cookie scoop, scoop 1” balls onto prepared baking sheets. Press a thumbprint into center of each ball, 1/2” deep. Fill with a small spoonful of jam.
- Step 4Bake until edges of cookies are golden, 13 to 14 minutes. Cool on baking sheets before serving.