Christmas Thumbprint Cookies with Raspberry Jam

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There’s something nostalgic and heartwarming about a tray of thumbprint cookies during the holidays. With their buttery shortbread base and jewel-toned centers, these Christmas Thumbprint Cookies with Raspberry Jam are as festive as they are delicious. Every bite is tender, buttery, and filled with a sweet-tart burst of raspberry jam—pure comfort in cookie form.

These cookies are perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday gift boxes, or just an evening with hot cocoa by the tree. They look fancy but come together with ease, and the simple ingredient list makes them even more approachable. If you’re looking for a classic holiday treat with timeless charm, this one will easily become your seasonal staple.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cookie

These thumbprint cookies are rich and buttery, with a soft crumb that melts in your mouth. The tart raspberry jam cuts through the richness beautifully, giving each bite a perfect balance of flavors. They’re also highly customizable—you can use different jams or add a drizzle of glaze for extra flair. Best of all, they store well, making them ideal for baking ahead during the holiday rush.

What Kind of Jam Should I Use?

Raspberry jam is the most traditional and offers that beautiful ruby red color that just screams Christmas. But you can use any jam you like: apricot, strawberry, even fig or cherry. Just make sure it’s a thick, high-quality jam so it holds its shape and doesn’t run off the cookie when baking.

Ingredients for the Christmas Thumbprint Cookies with Raspberry Jam

These cookies rely on a handful of pantry staples that come together to create buttery magic. The dough itself is simple, letting the jam be the star of the show.

• Unsalted butter – This is the base of the cookie. Its rich, creamy texture provides that soft, melt-in-your-mouth bite.
• Granulated sugar – Adds just enough sweetness without overpowering the buttery flavor.
• Vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavors and enhances the richness of the butter.
• All-purpose flour – Creates structure for the cookie while keeping it tender.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the buttery flavor.
• Raspberry jam – The fruity heart of each cookie. Choose one that’s thick and flavorful.

How To Make the Christmas Thumbprint Cookies with Raspberry Jam

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This helps incorporate air for a tender texture.

Step 2: Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients

Mix in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough will look crumbly at first but will come together as you mix.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out 1-inch balls of dough and roll them gently in your hands. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

Step 4: Press the Thumbprints

Use your thumb or the back of a rounded teaspoon to gently press an indentation in the center of each ball.

Step 5: Fill with Jam

Spoon a small amount of raspberry jam into each indentation, being careful not to overfill.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Serving and Storing These Cookies

These cookies make a stunning addition to any holiday dessert spread and look gorgeous nestled in cookie tins for gifting. They’re best served at room temperature, and they only get better after a day as the flavors meld. This recipe makes about 24 cookies, enough for a small gathering or gift-giving.

To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them—either baked or unbaked—for up to a month. If freezing unbaked, wait to add the jam until just before baking.

What to Serve With Christmas Thumbprint Cookies?

Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows

Pair these buttery cookies with a warm mug of hot chocolate for the coziest winter treat.

Mulled Wine or Cider

The spiced notes of mulled beverages enhance the fruity jam filling.

Whipped Cream Coffee

If you’re hosting a gathering, coffee with a dollop of whipped cream makes an elegant match.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

A scoop of creamy ice cream next to a warm thumbprint cookie? Yes, please.

Tea with Honey

Mild herbal or black teas complement the sweetness of the jam without overpowering it.

Cream Cheese Fruit Dip

Serve alongside other cookies with a light fruit dip to create a playful dessert platter.

Cinnamon-Spiced Nuts

Their crunch and warmth contrast nicely with the soft cookie texture.

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Christmas Thumbprint Cookies with Raspberry Jam, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies for a chewy, crunchy no-bake delight.
• Brownie Mix Cookies for a chocolatey indulgence that starts with a box mix.
• Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches when you’re in the mood for a bold dessert.
• Southern Hummingbird Cake if you like your sweets rich with pineapple and banana.
• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls when you want something ooey-gooey and fruity.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different jam flavor? Add a dusting of powdered sugar? I love hearing how you make these cookies your own.

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Conclusion

These Christmas Thumbprint Cookies with Raspberry Jam are the kind of treat that brings people together. They’re cozy, nostalgic, and simple to make—just what holiday baking should be. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or treating yourself by the fire, these cookies deliver joy in every bite.

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