Jam Thumbprint Cookies – A Valentine’s Day Special for Kids

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to spread love and sweetness, and what better way than with homemade Jam Thumbprint Cookies? These classic, buttery cookies with a jam-filled center are easy to make and a delightful treat for little hands to help with. Plus, they’re the perfect way to add a pop of festive color to your holiday treats!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Kid-Friendly Fun – Let the kids get hands-on by rolling dough and making the thumbprints.
• Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples for an easy, stress-free baking experience.
• Customizable – Use your favorite jam flavors to create a variety of colors and tastes.
• Perfect for Gifting – Package them in cute tins or treat bags for Valentine’s Day surprises.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup of your favorite jam (strawberry, raspberry, or apricot work well)
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the Dough – In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg yolks and vanilla extract. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
3. Shape the Cookies – Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
4. Create Thumbprints – Have the kids gently press their thumbs (or the back of a spoon) into the center of each dough ball to form a small well.
5. Fill with Jam – Spoon about ½ teaspoon of jam into each indentation.
6. Bake & Cool – Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. Optional Dusting – Once cooled, lightly dust with powdered sugar for an extra special touch.

Store-Bought Dough Variation

Short on time? You can still enjoy these delicious cookies using store-bought sugar cookie dough! Simply:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll the store-bought dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Press a small indentation in the center of each dough ball using your thumb or the back of a spoon.
4. Fill each indentation with about ½ teaspoon of jam.
5. Bake according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden.
6. Let them cool before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch!

Tips for Success

• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling if it feels too soft.
• Use a piping bag or a small spoon for precise jam filling.
• Try different jams or even chocolate ganache for a twist on the classic.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Happy Baking & Happy Valentine’s Day!