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Thumbprint Heart Cookies

Cozy jam-filled comforts in minutes, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

Cookie Base Ingredients
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter works best
  • 1/2 cup lightly packed brown sugar for caramel notes
  • 1 unit egg room temperature helps mix evenly
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract for warm aroma
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour spooned in, not packed
  • 1/4 tsp salt balances sweetness
Jam Filling
  • 1/4 cup jam of choice raspberry or apricot shine

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cream together the butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until incorporated.
  4. Add the flour and salt, blending until a soft dough forms.
  5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared sheet.
  6. Gently press your thumb or the rounded back of a teaspoon into the center of each ball to form a heart-shaped indent.
Baking
  1. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set.
  2. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  3. Gently reshape the indents if filled in while still warm.
  4. Once cooled, spoon a small dollop of jam into each heart-shaped center.

Notes

Chill the dough 10 minutes for faster rolling. If indents fill while baking, press again right out of the oven. Stir 1/4 tsp cinnamon into the dough for a warm spice lift. Serve as an afternoon tea treat, a brunch addition, or as holiday gifts.