If you have a soft spot for classic cookies that bring a burst of fruity sweetness along with buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture, then you are going to absolutely love this Jam Drops (Thumbprint Cookies) Recipe. These delightful treats pair crumbly, tender dough with a jewel-like dollop of jam right in the center, creating a balance of flavors that’s pure nostalgia in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon tea or to brighten up a festive occasion, these cookies are a cheerful crowd-pleaser that everyone will appreciate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Jam Drops (Thumbprint Cookies) Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role—from the rich butter that lends softness and flavor, to the vanilla that boosts the aroma, and of course, the jam that adds the perfect pop of fruity color and sweetness. Together, they create an irresistible lover’s dance of texture and taste.
- 225g (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter ensures the dough comes together smoothly and produces a tender crumb.
- 3/4 cup caster sugar / superfine sugar (regular/granulated sugar also works): Adds sweetness and helps create a slightly crisp exterior.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cookie flavor without overpowering the jam.
- 1 large egg (room temperature): Binds the dough ingredients together while adding richness.
- 2 1/2 cups plain flour (all-purpose flour): Provides structure and balances the softness from butter and egg.
- 1/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavors, balancing sweetness and preventing blandness.
- 1/2 cup strawberry or raspberry jam (or any favorite flavor, loosened by stirring): This jewel-colored filling makes every bite beautifully sweet and fruity.
How to Make Jam Drops (Thumbprint Cookies) Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Begin by beating the softened butter with caster sugar until the mixture is creamy and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into your dough, ensuring your cookies have a light texture rather than being dense or heavy. The sugar also starts to dissolve in the butter, paving the way for a tender bite.
Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla Extract
Next, beat in the room-temperature egg and vanilla extract until evenly combined. The egg adds richness and moisture, while the vanilla infuses a subtle fragrance that complements the jam filling perfectly. Make sure your egg is at room temperature for easier mixing and a more consistent dough.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flour and Salt
Gradually mix in the plain flour and salt stirring gently just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing here; you want the dough to be soft but not sticky, so the cookies remain tender after baking. The salt balances out the sweetness, enhancing the other flavors in the cookie.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies and Add Jam
Roll the dough into small balls, about a tablespoon each, and place them spaced apart on a lined baking tray. Use your thumb, or the back of a small spoon, to create an indentation in the center of each ball. Fill those little wells with your choice of jam—strawberry or raspberry are classics but feel free to experiment with whatever fruit preserves you love.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden and the jam looks set but not overly bubbly. Keep a close eye towards the end to avoid overbaking, as you want the cookies to stay soft and tender, with just enough structure to hold their shape.
How to Serve Jam Drops (Thumbprint Cookies) Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of charm, lightly dust your baked Jam Drops with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This adds a snowy, festive look that also introduces a slight sweetness that complements the fruity jam perfectly. Alternatively, a tiny sliver of fresh fruit atop each jam center creates an eye-catching pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee—perfect for afternoon indulgence or a casual gathering. Pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate your dessert plate, making these cookies a delightful finish to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Jam Drops in colorful tins or charm-filled cookie jars for gift-giving that feels personal and homemade. For entertaining, consider placing them on a tiered serving tray alongside fresh berries and nuts for an appealing spread. You can even experiment by using different jams in one batch to create a rainbow effect that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Jam Drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This maintains their delicate texture and prevents the jam from drying out. If your kitchen is especially warm, storing them in a cool spot helps keep them fresh longer.
Freezing
You can freeze baked Jam Drops for up to 3 months. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies anytime by popping them straight into the oven to refresh.
Reheating
To enjoy your Jam Drops warm, place them on a baking sheet and heat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes. This will soften the cookie just enough and revive the jam’s luscious texture without drying out the dough.
FAQs
Can I use other types of jam for this recipe?
Absolutely! While strawberry and raspberry are classic choices, feel free to use apricot, blueberry, or even marmalade for unique flavor twists. Just make sure the jam is not too runny to avoid spreading during baking.
Is it necessary to soften the butter beforehand?
Yes, softening the butter ensures it blends smoothly with the sugar and other ingredients. Cold butter won’t cream properly, which can lead to uneven texture in your cookies.
Why do you make an indentation before baking?
The indentation creates a little well that holds the jam filling securely in place during baking, giving these cookies their signature look and delightful burst of fruitiness in every bite.
Can I bake these cookies without an egg?
The egg adds moisture and helps bind the dough, so it’s recommended. However, you can try substituting with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg for an egg-free version, but the texture might be slightly different.
How do I prevent the jam from spreading too much?
Using a thick, well-set jam and loosening it gently before filling helps. Additionally, don’t overfill the wells. The dough’s chilling before baking can also reduce spreading.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about homemade Jam Drops (Thumbprint Cookies) Recipe that invites happy memories and cozy moments. Hopefully, this recipe encourages you to dive into baking these charming treats yourself, sharing that joy with friends and family. Once you taste that buttery dough paired with the sweet, tangy jam, you’ll find this cookie becoming a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.
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Jam Drops (Thumbprint Cookies) Recipe
- Prep Time: 26 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 28 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Jam Drops, also known as Thumbprint Cookies, are delightful buttery cookies with a soft, tender texture and a sweet dollop of jam in the center. Perfect for teatime or festive occasions, these cookies offer a perfect balance of buttery richness and fruity sweetness. This recipe yields 28 cookies with easy-to-follow steps, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced bakers.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 225g (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup caster sugar / superfine sugar (regular/granulated sugar is also acceptable)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg, at room temperature (~50-55g/2oz)
- 2 1/2 cups plain flour (all-purpose flour)
- 1/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt
Filling
- 1/2 cup strawberry or raspberry jam, or any other flavour, mixed well to loosen
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and beat in the egg until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add dry ingredients: Sift the plain flour and salt into the wet ingredients. Gently fold the mixture together using a spatula or your hands until a smooth dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough to keep the cookies tender.
- Chill the dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. Chilling helps the dough hold its shape during baking and makes it easier to handle.
- Shape the cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking trays with parchment paper. Remove the dough from the fridge and roll into 1-inch balls. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared trays.
- Create indentations: Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press down the center of each dough ball to create a small well without breaking the cookie entirely.
- Add jam filling: Spoon a small amount of the loosened jam into each indentation. Avoid overfilling to prevent the jam from spilling over during baking.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and enjoy: Once cooled, serve the cookies with your favorite tea or coffee. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Note 1: Caster or superfine sugar results in a smoother dough, but granulated sugar will work in a pinch.
- Note 2: Using your preferred jam flavor allows for variety; strawberry and raspberry are classic choices.
- Ensure the butter is sufficiently softened for easier creaming and better texture.
- Do not overbake to maintain a soft center; cookies will firm up as they cool.
- Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and keeps the cookies thick.
