Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies

BY :

Ovia Smith

Posted On :

July 5, 2025

The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and of course, delicious baked goods! Among the many festive treats, Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies stand out as a delightful favorite. These cookies are not only beautiful but also incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect addition to your Christmas cookie platter or a thoughtful gift for friends and family. With their soft, buttery texture and sweet jam filling, each bite evokes the warmth of the holiday spirit. In this article, we’ll explore how to make these delightful cookies, why you’ll love this recipe, and tips to perfect your baking experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies are more than just a treat; they are a celebration of flavors and textures. The base is a classic buttery cookie that melts in your mouth, perfectly complemented by the sweet and tangy jam filling. Here are a few reasons why this recipe will become your go-to during the holiday season:

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. You can whip up a batch in no time!
Customizable Flavors: The choice of jam or preserves allows you to tailor the cookies to your taste. Whether you prefer raspberry, strawberry, or apricot, you can create a variety that everyone will love.
Holiday Charm: The thumbprint shape gives these cookies a unique look, making them a beautiful addition to holiday parties and gatherings. They are sure to impress your guests!
Perfect for Gifting: Packaged nicely, these cookies make for a wonderful homemade gift. Share the joy of baking with friends and family!

Whether you are baking for a holiday party, family gathering, or just for yourself, these Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies are sure to bring joy to your taste buds and warmth to your heart.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that checks all the boxes delicious, easy, and festive then look no further than Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies! Here’s why this recipe stands out:

Texture Delight: The soft, tender texture of these cookies paired with the gooey jam center creates a delightful contrast that is simply irresistible. You’ll find yourself reaching for just one more!
Family Tradition: Baking cookies during the holidays is a cherished tradition for many families. This recipe is perfect for creating lasting memories with loved ones in the kitchen.
Quick Cleanup: With just a few mixing bowls and a baking sheet required, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your delicious creations.
Perfect for Every Occasion: While they are ideal for Christmas, these cookies are great for any festive gathering or even as a sweet treat throughout the year.

In summary, Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to spread holiday cheer. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make these delightful treats!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

To create the perfect batch of Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup jam or preserves (your choice of flavor)
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

In addition to the ingredients, here are some recommended utensils to ensure your baking process is smooth:

Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for mixing the cookie dough and a smaller bowl for the dry ingredients.
Whisk: For blending dry ingredients together.
Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Cookie Scoop: To measure out even portions of dough for consistent cookie sizes.
Wire Rack: For cooling the cookies after baking.

Gathering all the ingredients and tools beforehand will streamline your baking process and ensure you don’t miss anything during preparation. Now, let’s get started with the recipe!

Detailed Recipe Steps

Follow these detailed steps to bake the most delightful Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial for even baking.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This helps incorporate air into the mixture, ensuring a light cookie.
Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until well combined. The yolk adds richness and moisture to the cookies.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Shape the Cookies: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
Make Thumbprints: Using your thumb (or the back of a teaspoon), gently press down in the center of each ball to create an indent. Be careful not to press too hard; you want a nice well for the jam.
Fill with Jam: Spoon a small amount of jam or preserves into each thumbprint, being careful not to overfill. This adds the perfect burst of flavor in each bite.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may still look soft, which is okay as they will firm up while cooling.
Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking.
Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar if desired for an extra festive touch.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve these delightful thumbprint cookies at your Christmas gathering or pack them up as gifts! Enjoy the delightful flavors and the joy they bring.

FAQs

What is the origin of thumbprint cookies?

Thumbprint cookies are believed to originate from Sweden, where they are known as “Hallongrotta,” which translates to “Raspberry Cave.” They became popular in various countries, especially during the holiday season.

Can I use any type of jam for the filling?

Yes! You can use any flavor of jam or preserves that you prefer, such as raspberry, strawberry, apricot, or even chocolate spread. Feel free to get creative!

How do I store the cookies after baking?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just make sure to let it soften slightly before rolling into balls.

Are Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies gluten-free?

This recipe is made with all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if you need a gluten-free option.

Conclusion

Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that encapsulates the spirit of the holiday season. With their buttery texture and sweet jam filling, they are sure to bring joy to anyone who takes a bite. Remember to gather your ingredients, follow the steps carefully, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen! We encourage you to share your experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. Happy baking and enjoy your festive season! For more delicious recipes, check out our collection at Ovia Recipes and explore the world of flavors!

For more inspiration, don’t forget to visit our Pinterest page: Ovia Recipes on Pinterest.