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Apricot Almond Thumbprint Cookies

Recipe guide: Elena Hart
Apricot Almond Thumbprint Cookies
Sweets
DifficultyEasy
Prep time10 min
Cooking time12 min
Total time22 min
Servings4 servings

These apricot almond thumbprint cookies bring together a tender, buttery base and a glossy pocket of fruit jam. The dough comes together quickly, rolling easily into neat portions before receiving a gentle press in the center. As they bake, the edges turn lightly golden while the jam warms and settles into a rich, sweet filling.

Why this one works

  • Short prep time with straightforward mixing steps
  • Buttery cookie base with a distinct almond aroma
  • Bright fruit center that holds up nicely during baking
  • Bakes in just 12 minutes at 350F
Apricot Almond Thumbprint Cookies close-up
Ingredients

What you’ll need

  • 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour Provides the structure for a soft, workable dough that holds its shape when indented.
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter Room temperature butter creams easily, creating a light texture throughout the cookie.
  • 1/3 cup (65g) apricot jam A smooth or finely textured jam spoons cleanly into the center of each round.

TRY THIS NEXT: If these flavors sound good to you, Cherry Almond Sandwich Cookies is a natural one to save for next time.

Equipment

What to have nearby

  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Baking sheet
  • Measuring spoons
Quick overview
Prep
10 min
Cook
12 min
Total
22 min
Serves
4 servings
Method

Step-by-step instructions

The preparation moves smoothly from creaming the base to shaping and filling the rounds before a quick turn in the oven.

  1. 1
    Step 1

    Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

  2. 2
    Step 2

    Stir in flour and almond extract until a soft dough forms.

  3. 3
    Step 3

    Roll dough into small balls and press a thumbprint into the center of each.

  4. 4
    Step 4

    Fill each indentation with a small spoonful of apricot jam.

  5. 5
    Step 5

    Bake at 350F for 12 minutes until edges are golden.

ALSO GOOD: If these flavors sound good to you, Apricot Almond Breakfast Jars is a natural one to save for next time.

Helpful details

A few things worth knowing

  • Cream the butter thoroughly until light and airy before adding dry ingredients.
  • Press the center gently with your thumb or the back of a rounded measuring spoon to avoid cracking the edges.
  • Keep the jam portion modest so it does not bubble over the sides during baking.
  • Watch the edges closely near the 12-minute mark to pull them right as they turn pale golden.
Variations

Ways to make it your own

  • Dust the cooled cookies lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
  • Garnish the top of each baked cookie with a tiny pinch of toasted sliced almonds.
Serving

Serving suggestions

Set these cookies out alongside hot black tea, espresso, or a glass of cold milk. They make an inviting addition to an afternoon dessert platter or a simple sweet bite after dinner.

Storage

Storage & reheating

Store completely cooled cookies in a single layer or separated by parchment paper inside an airtight container in a cool, dry spot. Handle gently so the jam centers stay neat.

Recipe information

Nutrition notes

Nutrition is provided as a general estimate for the listed recipe. Brands, exact portions, and ingredient swaps can change the numbers.

Calories
140 kcal
Total Fat
7g
Saturated Fat
1g
Cholesterol
10mg
Sodium
45mg
Total Carbohydrates
18g
Dietary Fiber
1g
Sugars
10g
Protein
2g
Frequently asked

Quick recipe answers

What should I do if the dough cracks when pressing the center?+

Smooth the edges gently with your fingers after forming the indentation to keep the cookie intact before filling.

Can I use a spoon instead of my thumb to make the indentation?+

Yes, the back of a rounded half-teaspoon measuring spoon works well to create a uniform well.

Final note

With minimal prep and a brief bake time, these thumbprint cookies offer a classic balance of rich butter and sweet apricot preserve.

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