Thumbprint Heart Cookies Recipe

Introduction

These charming Thumbprint Heart Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for sharing with loved ones. Soft, buttery dough meets a sweet jam filling, creating a simple yet irresistible cookie. They’re easy to make and wonderful for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup lightly packed brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup jam of choice

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Using an electric mixer, cream together the butter and brown sugar on high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix until fully combined.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the flour and salt, blending until a soft dough forms.
5. Step 5: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1½ inches apart.
6. Step 6: Gently press your thumb or the rounded back of a teaspoon into the center of each ball twice to create a heart-shaped indent.
7. Step 7: Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
8. Step 8: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. If the indentations have smoothed out, gently press them again while the cookies are still warm.
9. Step 9: Once completely cooled, fill each heart-shaped center with a small dollop of your favorite jam.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water).
• Try using different jams like raspberry, apricot, or strawberry for a variety of flavors.
• If you prefer a crisper cookie, bake a couple of minutes longer but watch carefully to prevent burning.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep the jam fresh, add it just before serving. Reheat slightly in a warm oven if you want a soft, fresh-baked feel.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chilled butter for the dough?

It’s best to use softened butter to ensure the dough creams smoothly and creates a tender texture. Chilled butter may result in a denser cookie.

What can I use if I don’t have jam?

You can substitute jam with chocolate spread, lemon curd, or even Nutella for a different but delicious filling.

Thumbprint Heart Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 328 reviews

• Author: Lana
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 24 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Thumbprint Heart Cookies are buttery, soft, and perfectly sweetened with a touch of jam nestled in heart-shaped indentations. Easy to make and ideal for gifting or special occasions, these charming cookies combine a classic sugar cookie base with a fruity jam filling that adds a delightful burst of flavor and color.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cookie Dough

• 3/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup lightly packed brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt

Filling

• 1/4 cup jam of choice

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cookies bake evenly and do not stick.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using an electric mixer, beat together the butter and brown sugar on high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes, which helps create a tender cookie texture.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until the batter is thoroughly combined and smooth, providing moisture and flavor to the dough.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing just until a soft dough forms—avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.
5. Shape the Dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 1½ inches apart to allow for spreading.
6. Create Heart Indentations: Gently press your thumb or the rounded back of a teaspoon into the center of each dough ball twice to form distinct heart-shaped indentations that will hold the jam.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden, signaling they are done.
8. Cool and Reshape Indentations: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If the indentations have filled in during baking, reshape the heart centers gently while warm.
9. Fill with Jam: Once the cookies are completely cooled, spoon a small dollop of your favorite jam into each heart-shaped center, adding a sweet and tangy finish.

Notes

• For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a vegan butter alternative.
• Use seedless jam to prevent seeds from affecting the texture of the filling.
• Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before rolling can make handling easier and reduce spreading during baking.
• These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Try different jam flavors such as raspberry, strawberry, or apricot for variety.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: thumbprint cookies, heart cookies, jam cookies, easy cookie recipe, Valentine’s Day cookies, buttery cookies