Thumbprint Heart Cookies Recipe

Introduction

These Thumbprint Heart Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Soft, buttery cookies with a sweet jam center make a charming and delicious snack that’s easy to bake at home.

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 to the mixture and 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 space them about 1½ inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Step 6: Gently press your thumb or the rounded back of a teaspoon twice into the center of each ball to create a heart-shaped indentation.
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 partially filled in, reshape them gently while still warm.
9. Step 9: Once completely cooled, spoon a small dollop of your favorite jam into each heart-shaped center.

Tips & Variations

• For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil.
• Use different types of jam like raspberry, strawberry, or apricot for varied flavors.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain the cookie shape.
• Try using powdered sugar instead of brown sugar for a lighter texture and flavor.

Storage

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. If the jam hardens after chilling, let the cookies sit out briefly to soften.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a flax egg instead of a regular egg?

Yes, you can replace the egg with a flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens before adding it to the dough.

What type of jam works best for these cookies?

Any thick, flavorful jam or preserves work well. Popular choices include raspberry, strawberry, apricot, or cherry jam. Avoid watery jams as they can make the cookies soggy.

Thumbprint Heart Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 85 reviews

• Author: Rafael
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x

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Description

These Thumbprint Heart Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, featuring a buttery, soft cookie base with a sweet jam-filled center shaped like a heart. Easy to prepare and bake, these cookies combine simple ingredients to create a charming and delicious dessert loved by all ages.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cookie Dough

• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 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 your oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar on high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will help create a tender cookie.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated, ensuring a smooth and uniform dough.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture, blending until a soft dough forms; be careful not to overmix to keep the cookies tender.
5. Shape Dough Balls: Roll the dough into 1-inch diameter balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 1/2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading.
6. Create Heart Indents: Gently press your thumb or the rounded back of a teaspoon twice into the center of each dough ball to form a heart-shaped indentation where the filling will sit.
7. Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden, indicating they are properly cooked.
8. Cool Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes; if the indentations have filled in during baking, gently reshape them while the cookies are still warm.
9. Add Jam Filling: Once completely cooled, spoon a small dollop of your favorite jam into each heart-shaped center, adding a sweet and fruity burst of flavor to each cookie.

Notes

• You can substitute the egg with a flax egg for a vegan version (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, set for 5 minutes).
• Choose your favorite jam such as raspberry, strawberry, or apricot for varied flavors.
• Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• To keep the heart shape intact, avoid pressing too hard when making the indentation.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

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

Keywords: Thumbprint cookies, heart-shaped cookies, jam-filled cookies, easy cookie recipe, holiday cookies, buttery cookies