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Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies

These Soft Christmas Thumbprint Cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats filled with festive red and green jam centers. They’re simple, classic, and beautifully nostalgic — just like grandma used to make. Perfect for cookie trays, gift boxes, or cozy evenings by the tree, these cookies bring a little sparkle and sweetness to every bite!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 24
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • ¼ cup red jam raspberry or cherry
  • ¼ cup green apple jelly or lime jam
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add egg yolk and vanilla, and mix until smooth.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cornstarch.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix into a soft dough.
  6. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on baking sheets.
  7. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indent in each cookie.
  8. Fill each with ½ teaspoon of jam or jelly.
  9. Bake 10–12 minutes or until edges are just set but not browned.
  10. Cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

  • Chill dough for 10–15 minutes if it’s too soft to shape.
  • Warm jam slightly before filling for a smoother finish.
  • Add ½ tsp almond extract for a festive flavor twist.
  • Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days.