Strawberry Thumbprint Cookies

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Strawberry Thumbprint Cookies

These Strawberry Thumbprint Cookies are a soft, buttery classic filled with sweet strawberry jam.

They’re the kind of cookie that looks bakery-perfect but is so easy to make at home. Each one has that melt-in-your-mouth texture with a pop of fruity flavor right in the center — simple, elegant, and always a favorite.

Whether you’re baking for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or just because, these cookies are as pretty as they are delicious.

The vanilla cookie base pairs perfectly with the glossy strawberry filling, and they store beautifully — perfect for gifting or serving with afternoon tea.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup strawberry jam (or preserves)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs and vanilla: Mix in the egg yolks and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients: Stir in the flour and salt until the dough comes together. If the dough feels too soft, chill for 20–30 minutes.
5. Shape cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
6. Make thumbprints: Use your thumb (or the back of a measuring spoon) to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
7. Fill with jam: Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of strawberry jam into each indentation.
8. Bake: 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
9. Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Thumbprint Cookies

• Don’t overfill the centers — a small spoonful of jam is plenty.
• If the indentations puff up while baking, press them lightly again right after removing from the oven.
• Try other flavors like raspberry, apricot, or mixed berry for variety.
• Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a bakery-style finish.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

These cookies are buttery, soft, and just the right amount of sweet. The strawberry jam adds a beautiful pop of color and flavor, making them perfect for holidays or special occasions.

They also freeze wonderfully, so you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them anytime. If you loved these cookies be sure to check out our recipe for cherry thumbprint cookies.