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Heart Thumbprint Jam Cookies Recipe

4.8 from 125 reviews

Heart Thumbprint Jam Cookies are delightful buttery cookies with a charming heart-shaped indentation filled with sweet seedless jam. Perfect for gifting or an afternoon treat, these cookies feature a tender texture and a nostalgic jam center that is both visually appealing and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional)
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Filling

  • 1/2 cup seedless jam or preserves (raspberry, strawberry, or cherry)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  3. Add the Extracts: Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract if using. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to fully combine all ingredients.
  4. Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until a soft, cohesive dough forms, taking care not to overmix to keep the cookies tender.
  5. Shape the Cookies: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough, roll into balls, then gently flatten each into a thick disc. Place discs on prepared baking sheets spaced about 2 inches apart.
  6. Make the Heart Indentation: Use the rounded edge of a small heart-shaped cookie cutter to press a shallow heart into the center of each disc. If unavailable, press twice with the side of your thumb to create a heart shape manually.
  7. Fill with Jam: Spoon or pipe a small amount of jam into each heart indentation, filling just to the top without overflow to prevent spillage during baking.
  8. Bake: Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, until cookie edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft and unbrowned.
  9. Cool Completely: Let cookies cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully. This helps them set without breaking.

Notes

  • Ensure butter is fully softened to get the best creaming results for a tender cookie texture.
  • You can use any flavor of seedless jam or preserves, but raspberry, strawberry, or cherry work best.
  • If almond extract is not desired, omit it without affecting the overall flavor significantly.
  • Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and aid in easy removal.
  • Be careful not to overfill the jam indentations to avoid spilling over while baking.
  • Cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

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