Heart Jam Thumbprint Cookies (Printable Version)

Buttery cookies with a heart-shaped jam topping, ideal for sharing sweet moments with loved ones.

# Everything You’ll Need:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/4 cup cornstarch
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Wet Ingredients

04 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
07 - 1 large egg yolk
08 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
09 - 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

→ Filling

10 - About 1/2 teaspoon seedless raspberry jam per cookie

# Steps to Cook:

01 - Line two 13x9-inch baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Set aside.
03 - In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat softened butter with granulated and brown sugars on medium speed, gradually increasing to medium-high for 2-3 minutes until light and creamy.
04 - Scrape down the bowl, then blend in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully incorporated.
05 - On low speed, gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a smooth dough forms, scraping the bowl as needed.
06 - Using a 1-tablespoon scoop, portion dough and roll into smooth balls without cracks.
07 - Place dough balls 2 inches apart on prepared sheets. Press a heart shape into the top of each using a pinky finger or small spoon. Chill in freezer for 30 minutes or refrigerator for 1 hour to prevent spreading.
08 - Remove dough from chill and preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
09 - Warm raspberry jam in a small microwave-safe bowl for 10–15 seconds until slightly runny. Fill each heart indentation with approximately 1/2 teaspoon jam.
10 - Bake cookies on the center rack for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden brown.
11 - Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Chilling the dough prevents cookies from spreading and helps jam stay in place. Use unsalted butter for controlled saltiness. Ensure heart indentations are deep enough to hold jam without leaking.