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Best Jelly Thumbprint Cookies

Best Jelly Thumbprint Cookies are a timeless treat—soft, buttery cookies with sweet, jewel-toned centers of your favorite fruit jelly. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or any time you want a classic cookie that everyone loves!

Best Jelly Thumbprint Cookies

Servings: 24 cookies
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Estimated Calories: 110 per cookie

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup fruit jelly or jam (any flavor)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in egg yolks and vanilla until well combined.
  4. Add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
  6. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each ball.
  7. Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of jelly or jam.
  8. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
  9. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Enjoy!

Tips & FAQ

  • Can I use different flavors of jelly? Yes! Try raspberry, apricot, or strawberry for variety.
  • How do I store these cookies? Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Can I freeze them? Absolutely—freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a bag or container for up to 2 months.

Love cookies? Check out our Baked Goods for more sweet inspiration!