Save Classic buttery thumbprint cookies flavored with almond and filled with budget-friendly cherry jam for a delightful, festive treat.
The first time I made these cherry almond thumbprint cookies, the sweet aroma filled my entire kitchen and instantly put everyone in a cheerful mood. They quickly disappeared from the cookie tray at our last family event.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, 225 g): Softened for easy mixing and a rich, creamy texture
- Granulated sugar (2/3 cup, 130 g): Adds sweetness and helps the cookies hold their shape
- Large egg yolk (1): Enhances the richness and contributes to tenderness
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds depth of flavor
- Almond extract (1 1/2 tsp): Gives a distinctive nutty character
- All-purpose flour (2 cups, 250 g): Provides structure to the cookies
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness
- Cherry jam (1/2 cup, 160 g): Budget-friendly or homemade, for filling the cookies
- Water (1–2 tbsp): To loosen thick jam, if needed
- Sliced almonds (1/4 cup, 25 g, optional): For garnish around the edges
Instructions
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Beat in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients:
- Add the flour and salt; mix until a soft dough forms.
- Shape Dough Balls:
- Roll dough into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Form Wells:
- Press your thumb or the back of a teaspoon into the center of each ball to create a well.
- Fill with Jam:
- If jam is thick, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of water to loosen. Fill each well with about 1/2 teaspoon of cherry jam.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle sliced almonds around the edges of the cookies, if using.
- Bake:
- Bake for 13–15 minutes, until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges.
- Cool:
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Save My kids love helping with the thumbprint part and carefully filling each cookie with jam. It has become a fun holiday tradition for us.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer or sturdy spoon, measuring cups and spoons, baking sheets, parchment paper, and a cooling rack are needed for making these cookies.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), egg, milk, and tree nuts. Always check your ingredients to ensure there are no hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each cookie has approximately 105 calories, 6 g fat, 12 g carbohydrates, and 1 g protein.
Save Share these cherry almond thumbprint cookies with loved ones for a festive touch. They always disappear quickly, so bake a double batch if you want leftovers!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I soften the butter for these cookies?
Allow unsalted butter to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until it becomes soft but not melted, ensuring easier mixing and a tender dough.
- → Can I substitute almond extract in this preparation?
Yes, for a nut-free option, simply omit the almond extract and skip sliced almonds for garnish to maintain flavor balance without allergens.
- → What type of jam works best for filling?
Cherry jam is traditional, but apricot, raspberry, or strawberry jams also provide excellent flavor contrasts and a similar texture.
- → How do I prevent the jam filling from being too thick?
Mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of water into thicker jams to loosen consistency, making it easier to fill the indentations without overfilling.
- → What’s the ideal baking time to achieve a golden edge?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 13 to 15 minutes, checking for lightly golden edges to ensure a tender but slightly crisp finish.
- → Can these treats be iced or glazed?
Yes, a simple drizzle of powdered sugar mixed with milk can add an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal after baking.