Save Classic buttery thumbprint cookies flavored with almond and filled with budget-friendly cherry jam for a delightful, festive treat.
I first made these cookies for a holiday exchange and was amazed by how quickly they disappeared. The almond flavor pairs perfectly with sweet cherry jam, making them a hit for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- Cookies: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened, 2/3 cup (130 g) granulated sugar, 1 large egg yolk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 1/2 tsp almond extract, 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 1/4 tsp salt
- Filling: 1/2 cup (160 g) cherry jam (budget-friendly or homemade), 1,2 tbsp water (if jam is very thick)
- Garnish (optional): 1/4 cup (25 g) sliced almonds
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- Cream butter and sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add Egg and Extracts:
- Beat in egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until combined.
- Make Dough:
- Add flour and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Shape Cookies:
- Roll dough into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls and place 2 inches apart on prepared sheets.
- Form Indentations:
- Press thumb or back of a teaspoon into center of each ball to make a well.
- Fill with Jam:
- If jam is thick, loosen with 1,2 tbsp water. Fill each well with about 1/2 teaspoon cherry jam.
- Add Almonds:
- Sprinkle sliced almonds around edges, if using.
- Bake:
- Bake 13,15 minutes until light golden at edges.
- Cool Cookies:
- Let cool 5 minutes on sheets, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Save My kids love helping press the little wells and choosing the jam flavor. These cookies have become a family tradition for our festive baking days.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer or sturdy spoon, measuring cups and spoons, baking sheets, parchment paper, cooling rack
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), egg, milk, tree nuts (almond extract and sliced almonds). Always check jam and almond extract labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (1 cookie) provides approximately: 105 calories, 6 g fat, 12 g carbohydrates, 1 g protein
Save Make a batch of these thumbprint cookies for any festive occasion, and enjoy their melt-in-the-mouth texture with a sweet cherry center.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of flour is best for these cookies?
All-purpose flour is ideal, providing a tender yet sturdy dough that holds the jam filling well.
- → Can I substitute almond extract?
You can omit almond extract for a nut-free version or use vanilla extract alone for a milder flavor.
- → How do I prevent the jam from leaking during baking?
Loosen thick jam with a little water before filling to ensure smooth spreading and minimize leaks.
- → What is the purpose of the thumbprint indentation?
The indentation creates a well to hold the cherry jam, giving each cookie its signature look and filling.
- → Are sliced almonds necessary?
They add a pleasant crunch and visual appeal but can be omitted or replaced if preferred.
- → Can other jams be used instead of cherry?
Yes, apricot, raspberry, or strawberry jams make excellent alternatives, offering varied fruit flavors.