Save Classic buttery thumbprint cookies flavored with almond and filled with budget-friendly cherry jam for a delightful festive treat.
I first made these Cherry Almond Thumbprint Cookies for a holiday get-together and they disappeared from the dessert tray in minutes. Their delicate almond flavor and that sweet burst of jam make them irresistible.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (225 g), softened
- Granulated sugar: 2/3 cup (130 g)
- Egg yolk: 1 large
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Almond extract: 1 1/2 tsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Cherry jam: 1/2 cup (160 g) budget-friendly or homemade
- Water: 1–2 tbsp, if jam is very thick
- Sliced almonds: 1/4 cup (25 g), optional for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Mix wet ingredients:
- Beat in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until combined.
- Add dry ingredients:
- Add flour and salt; mix until a soft dough forms.
- Shape cookies:
- Roll dough into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls and place 2 inches apart on 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 water to loosen. Fill each well with about 1/2 teaspoon cherry jam.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle sliced almonds around edges if using.
- Bake:
- Bake for 13–15 minutes, until lightly golden around the edges.
- Cool:
- Allow to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Save My kids love to help roll these cookies, and sneaking a taste of jam is always part of the fun. We always make an extra batch for sharing during festive gatherings.
Nutritional Information
Each cookie contains about 105 calories, 6 g of fat, 12 g carbs, and 1 g protein.
Recipe Variations
You can substitute apricot, raspberry, or strawberry jam to enjoy different flavors. Omit almond extract and sliced almonds for a nut-free version.
Storage
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer shelf life.
Save Give these cookies a try for your next celebration and enjoy their festive cherry almond flavor. They are sure to bring smiles to your cookie tray!
Kitchen Questions
- → What type of flour works best for these cookies?
All-purpose flour provides the right texture and structure for tender, buttery thumbprints.
- → How can I prevent the jam from being too thick to fill the cookies?
If the jam is very thick, stir in a tablespoon or two of water to loosen it for easier filling.
- → Can I substitute almond extract for another flavor?
Yes, vanilla extract alone works well or try other nut extracts like hazelnut for a twist.
- → What is the best way to shape these thumbprint treats?
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and press gently with your thumb or a teaspoon to create a small indentation for the filling.
- → How do sliced almonds enhance the final result?
Sliced almonds add a pleasant crunch and a decorative touch around the jam-filled centers.
- → Are there any allergen considerations with this dessert?
These treats contain wheat, egg, milk, and tree nuts (almond). Adjust ingredients to suit dietary needs.