Fresh Strawberry Jam Thumbprint (Print Version)

Buttery cookies with vibrant strawberry jam centers, ideal for afternoon treats or sharing.

# Components:

→ Cookie Dough

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 2/3 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 large egg yolk
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Strawberry Jam Filling

07 - 3/4 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
08 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
09 - 2 teaspoons lemon juice

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a small saucepan, combine diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until strawberries break down and mixture thickens, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
03 - In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg yolk and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
04 - Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
05 - Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Arrange on prepared baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
06 - Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to make an indentation in the center of each ball.
07 - Fill each indentation with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of cooled strawberry jam.
08 - Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until edges are just turning golden.
09 - Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry
  • Homemade strawberry jam adds a fresh, vibrant flavor that store-bought can't match
  • Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday trays, or edible gifts
  • Easy enough for beginner bakers yet impressive in presentation
  • Vegetarian-friendly and endlessly customizable with different jams
02 -
  • Use high-quality store-bought strawberry jam if short on time—just look for one with minimal added ingredients
  • Dust cooled cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months
  • If the dough becomes too soft while rolling, refrigerate it for 10–15 minutes to firm up
  • Experiment with different jams like raspberry, apricot, or blackberry for variety on your cookie tray
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