Go Back

How to Make Perfect Christmas Thumbprint Cookies (Kid-Friendly Recipe!)

These buttery, jam-filled Christmas Thumbprint Cookies are a timeless holiday classic that combines rich flavor, festive charm, and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for cookie exchanges, gifting, or family baking traditions, these cookies come together effortlessly and deliver picture-perfect results every time.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup jam raspberry, strawberry, or apricot
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Substitution Tips:
  • Use 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version
  • Substitute butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs for vegan option
  • Experiment with different jams or preserves for variety

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar — In a large bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
  2. Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients — Mix in egg yolks one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
  3. Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients — In a separate bowl, whisk flour and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients until just combined.
  4. Step 4: Chill the Dough — Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to prevent spreading.
  5. Step 5: Shape the Cookies — Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheets. Use your thumb or spoon to create indentations in each cookie.
  6. Step 6: Fill and Bake — Fill indentations with 1/2 teaspoon of jam. Bake 12–15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Cool on wire racks.
  7. Optional: Dust cooled cookies with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Notes

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for proper creaming. Chill dough thoroughly to prevent spreading and achieve perfectly shaped cookies. For a fun twist, drizzle cooled cookies with melted white chocolate before serving.