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Jam Drops (Thumbprint Cookies): A Timeless Treat for All Occasions

Jam drops, also known as thumbprint cookies, are buttery and soft cookies filled with vibrant, fruity jam. Perfect for tea parties, festive gatherings, or a nostalgic everyday treat, these cookies are simple to make and delightful to eat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 34 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Classic
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 225 g 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup caster sugar superfine sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 2 1/2 cups plain flour all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup strawberry or raspberry jam or your preferred flavor, mixed well to loosen

Method
 

Preheat the Oven:
  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C for fan-forced ovens.
  2. Line two baking trays with parchment paper.
Cream the Butter and Sugar:
  1. Using an electric beater or stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar on medium speed for about 1.5 minutes until creamy and fluffy.
Mix in Wet Ingredients:
  1. Add the vanilla extract, egg, and salt to the creamed butter mixture. Beat for 20 seconds until just combined.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
  1. Gradually add the flour to the mixture, beating until no visible white flour remains. The dough will have a crumbly texture.
Shape the Cookies:
  1. Measure one tablespoon of dough and pack it tightly. Roll into a smooth ball (about 3cm/1.2 inches in diameter).
  2. Flatten each ball into a disc (about 1.25cm/0.5 inches thick) and press your thumb into the center to create an indent.
Add the Jam:
  1. Fill each indent with a slightly heaped 1/2 teaspoon of jam. Avoid overfilling, as the jam will spread during baking.
Bake to Perfection:
  1. Bake for 14 minutes, rotating and switching the trays after 10 minutes for even baking.
  2. The cookies are done when the edges are light golden and the surfaces are pale golden.
Cool and Serve:
  1. Let the cookies cool completely on the tray to allow the bases to set. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use room-temperature butter and egg for a smoother dough.
  • A jam with a thick consistency works best to prevent spreading.
  • For easier handling, chill the dough if it becomes too soft.