There’s something magical about baking during the holidays, isn’t there? The smell of cookies wafting through the house, the joy of sharing treats with loved ones, and those sweet, sticky moments spent in the kitchen. One of my absolute favorites are these Christmas thumbprint cookies with jam! They’re the perfect holiday treat, combining buttery goodness with a delightful burst of your favorite jam in every bite. Trust me, these cookies have a special way of bringing everyone together—my kids love helping to make them and, of course, taste-testing along the way!
With just a handful of simple ingredients and a bit of love, you can whip up a batch that’ll impress everyone at your holiday gatherings. What I love most is how versatile they are; you can use any jam flavor you fancy! So whether you prefer classic raspberry, zesty orange marmalade, or a cozy spiced apple, you’re bound to create a little holiday magic with these cookies. Let’s dive into the details and get started on this delicious adventure!
Ingredients List
To make these delightful Christmas thumbprint cookies with jam, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup butter (softened): Make sure your butter is at room temperature, so it creams nicely with the sugar. I usually take it out an hour before baking to get that perfect softness.
- 3/4 cup sugar: Regular granulated sugar works just fine here, adding just the right amount of sweetness to balance the buttery flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of your cookies, helping to create that classic tender texture we all love.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Don’t skimp on this! It adds a wonderful aroma and flavor that makes the cookies feel extra special.
- 1 cup jam (your choice of flavor): This is where the fun really begins! Choose your favorite jam—whether it’s luscious strawberry, tart raspberry, or something festive like spiced peach. The flavor you pick will shine through in every delicious bite!
Having everything prepped and ready to go makes the baking process so much smoother, so I like to measure out all my ingredients in advance. Happy baking!
How to Prepare Christmas Thumbprint Cookies with Jam
Making these Christmas thumbprint cookies with jam is a fun and simple process that will have your kitchen smelling like a holiday wonderland in no time! Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can get those delicious cookies in the oven and onto the holiday platter!
Step-by-Step Instructions
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This little step is crucial to ensure your cookies bake evenly and come out just right. While that’s heating up, grab a mixing bowl and cream together your softened butter and sugar. Use a sturdy wooden spoon or a hand mixer to mix until it’s light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This step is key because it incorporates air into the batter, giving your cookies that delightful texture.
Next, add in the flour and vanilla extract to the buttery mixture. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it! A few streaks of flour left in the dough are totally fine. Now it’s time to form your dough! Roll it into small balls, about an inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup, and trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
Now for the fun part: make an indentation in the center of each cookie ball using your thumb. This is what makes them “thumbprint” cookies! Don’t worry if the edges crack a bit; just gently reshape them with your fingers.
Finally, fill each thumbprint with your chosen jam, being careful not to overfill. You want just enough to create that lovely burst of flavor without spilling over. Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Once they’re done, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. And there you have it—delicious jam-filled cookies ready to spread holiday cheer!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Christmas thumbprint cookies with jam are not just a treat; they’re a heartwarming addition to your holiday festivities! Here’s why you’ll adore making them:
- Simple and Quick: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a batch that everyone will love!
- Customizable: Choose any jam flavor that tickles your taste buds—there are endless possibilities, from classic raspberry to exotic passion fruit!
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies make delightful gifts. Pack them in a festive tin, and you’ve got a charming handmade present for friends and family.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the little ones in making these cookies! They’ll have a blast making the thumbprints and picking their favorite jam.
- Holiday Nostalgia: Baking these thumbprint cookies can bring back sweet memories of holiday traditions, making them even more special to enjoy with loved ones.
Equipment Needed
Gathering the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful Christmas thumbprint cookies with jam:
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet is essential for holding your cookies as they bake. I prefer using one lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Mixing Bowl: A good mixing bowl is a must for creaming the butter and sugar together. I love using a large bowl that gives me plenty of space to mix without making a mess!
With these two simple tools, you’ll be all set to create your holiday treats. Happy baking!
Tips for Success
Getting the perfect batch of Christmas thumbprint cookies with jam is all about a few key details. Here are my favorite tips to ensure your cookies turn out just right:
- Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, so make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for the butter and flour if you have one; it can make a huge difference!
- Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is truly softened to room temperature. If you’re in a hurry, you can cut it into small pieces to speed up the softening process. Cold butter won’t cream well and can lead to dense cookies.
- Don’t Overmix: When you add the flour and vanilla, mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop gluten and lead to tougher cookies, which we definitely want to avoid!
- Indentation Technique: When making the thumbprints, use just the tip of your thumb. Press gently but firmly to create a nice well without cracking the edges too much. If they crack, just reshape them before baking.
- Cool Before Storing: Allow your cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them in an airtight container. This prevents moisture buildup, which can make them soggy.
With these little pointers in mind, you’re all set to create delightful cookies that will be the star of your holiday celebrations!
Nutritional Information
When you indulge in these Christmas thumbprint cookies with jam, it’s nice to know what you’re getting in each delightful bite! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional content per cookie:
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 6g (of which saturated fat is 4g)
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose, especially with the type of jam you use. Enjoy these cookies as part of a balanced holiday treat, and remember, it’s all about moderation and joy during the festivities!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making these scrumptious Christmas thumbprint cookies with jam? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up:
- Can I use different types of jam for the filling?
Absolutely! The beauty of these cookies is their versatility. You can use any jam flavor you love—think strawberry, apricot, or even a spiced cranberry for a festive twist! - How do I store the cookies after baking?
Once your cookies are completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about a week. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. - Can I freeze the cookies?
You sure can! These thumbprint cookies freeze beautifully. Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature. - What if my dough is too crumbly?
If you find your dough isn’t coming together, it might need a touch more moisture. Try adding a teaspoon of milk or water, one at a time, until it holds together nicely. - Can I make these cookies ahead of time for the holidays?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a couple of days in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just roll, bake, and fill them with jam when you’re ready to serve!
Hopefully, these answers help you bake with confidence and create delicious holiday treats that everyone will love!
Serving Suggestions
These Christmas thumbprint cookies with jam are delightful on their own, but pair them with a few fun accompaniments to enhance your holiday spread! Here are some ideas:
- Hot Cocoa or Coffee: Nothing beats the cozy combination of freshly baked cookies and a warm cup of hot cocoa or coffee. The rich flavors complement each other beautifully!
- Festive Fruit Platter: Serve the cookies alongside a colorful fruit platter featuring seasonal fruits like pomegranates, oranges, and berries. The freshness balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Board: For a unique twist, include these cookies on a cheese board. Pair them with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese, and let the contrasting flavors shine!
- Holiday Ice Cream: If you’re feeling indulgent, serve the cookies with a scoop of vanilla or spiced ice cream for a delicious dessert experience.
These pairings not only elevate the cookies but also create a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for holiday gatherings. Enjoy!
Christmas Thumbprint Cookies with Jam
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup butter softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling
- 1 cup jam your choice of flavor
Instructions
- Cream together the softened butter and sugar in a mixing bowl.
- Add the flour and vanilla extract, mix until combined.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Make an indentation in the center of each ball with your thumb.
- Fill each indentation with jam.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- Let cool before serving.