Easy and Delicious Make-Ahead Jam Thumbs

These Make-Ahead Jam Thumbs are buttery, tender, and filled with sweet jam. A perfect treat for breakfast or afternoon tea. The best part is that these cookies can be made in advance and stored for up to a week. This recipe requires a short list of simple ingredients and only takes a few steps to achieve jam-filled perfection. Try making these thumbprint cookies for your next gathering or as a lovely homemade gift.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Your favorite jam or preserves

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Sift the flour and salt into the bowl. Stir until just combined. The dough should come together and be slightly sticky.
4. Divide the dough in half and shape into two discs. Wrap each disc tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Remove one disc of dough from the refrigerator. Pinch off small pieces of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
7. Using your thumb or the back of a round measuring spoon, make an indentation in the center of each ball.
8. Fill each indentation with your favorite jam or preserves, being careful not to overfill.
9. Repeat steps 6-8 with the remaining dough and jam.
10. Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once cooled, store the Make-Ahead Jam Thumbs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Interesting Facts