Jam-Filled Heart Thumbprint Cookies are the kind of treat that instantly feels personal, cozy, and timeless. With their buttery texture and jewel-toned jam centers, these cookies strike the perfect balance between simple and elegant. While they’re especially popular around Valentine’s Day, they’re just as welcome year-round whenever a sweet, homemade moment is needed.
Originally inspired by classic European thumbprint cookies, this heart-shaped version adds a romantic twist without extra effort. Because the dough is rich yet delicate, each bite melts gently while the jam adds just enough brightness. Meanwhile, shaping them by hand makes every cookie feel unique and heartfelt.
Whether you’re baking for loved ones, gifting something special, or simply treating yourself, these cookies deliver warmth and nostalgia. Most importantly, they’re easy to make, visually stunning, and endlessly comforting — the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Recipe Yield: 24 cookies
INGREDIENTS
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup raspberry or strawberry jam
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Cream the butter and sugar:
First, add the softened butter and sugar to a mixing bowl. Then, cream together until pale, fluffy, and smooth.
2. Add egg yolk and vanilla:
Next, mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and silky.
3. Combine dry ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
4. Chill the dough:
Then, cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape beautifully while baking.
5. Shape the hearts:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and gently shape into hearts. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Create the thumbprints:
Using your thumb or a small spoon, press a heart-shaped indentation into the center of each cookie.
7. Fill with jam:
Carefully spoon jam into each heart center, filling without overflowing.
8. Bake and cool:
Bake for 12–14 minutes, until edges are set and lightly golden. Finally, cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Chill for clean shapes:
Because chilled dough spreads less, chilling ensures crisp heart edges and defined jam centers. - Use thick jam:
Meanwhile, thicker preserves prevent bubbling and keep the centers glossy and vibrant. - Gentle shaping matters:
Instead of overworking the dough, shape softly so the cookies stay tender and melt-in-your-mouth.
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