Easy Jam Thumbprint Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Few cookies are as timeless and charming as jam thumbprint shortbread cookies. These little delights feature buttery shortbread dough shaped with a small well in the center, filled with your favorite jam for a pop of fruity sweetness. Their simplicity makes them both elegant and comforting, perfect for holidays, tea parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee at home

What makes these cookies so special is the combination of textures and flavours. The shortbread base is rich, tender, and crumbly, while the jam filling adds a burst of colour and flavour that balances the richness beautifully. Whether you use raspberry, strawberry, apricot, or a mix of jams, these cookies are as pretty as they are delicious, making them an ideal treat to share with loved ones or to package as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Why You Need This Recipe

This recipe is a must-try because it’s simple yet delivers a bakery quality result with very little effort. The buttery shortbread dough comes together quickly, and the jam filling can be customized to suit your taste or the occasion. These cookies also look impressive without requiring advanced baking skills, making them perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers

Another reason you’ll love this recipe is its versatility. You can use any jam flavour you like, or even mix in different fillings for variety. They’re also great make ahead cookies since the flavours only get better as they rest, making them ideal for holiday baking or gifting

Ingredients

This recipe uses just a handful of everyday ingredients to create buttery, jam filled cookies everyone will love.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories (approx)
Unsalted butter	1 cup	800
Granulated sugar	2/3 cup	515
Egg yolk	1 large	55
Vanilla extract	1 tsp	12
All purpose flour	2 cups	880
Salt	1/4 tsp	0
Fruit jam (raspberry, strawberry, etc.)	1/2 cup	250

Calorie counts may vary slightly depending on brand and portion size

How to Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms. Scoop small portions of dough and roll them into balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make a small indentation in the center of each dough ball. Fill each well with about half a teaspoon of jam. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack

Pro Tips

For neat, bakery style cookies, chill the dough for 20 to 30 minutes before shaping it helps prevent spreading in the oven. If the dough cracks when making the indent, simply smooth it back together with your fingers. Be careful not to overfill the centers with jam, as it can bubble over while baking. For an extra festive touch, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted white chocolate. These cookies also store well in an airtight container, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time

Perfect Pairings and Toppings

Jam thumbprint shortbread cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa. They’re also delightful alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or as part of a holiday cookie platter. For variety, try filling some with lemon curd, Nutella, or caramel for a different twist. A light dusting of powdered sugar before serving adds an elegant finishing touch that makes these cookies look as good as they taste

Conclusion

Easy jam thumbprint shortbread cookies are a classic treat that combine rich, buttery shortbread with a sweet burst of jam. They are simple to make, beautiful to serve, and versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, sharing with friends, or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favourite in your cookie collection