Heart Thumbprint Cookies: Easy Valentine’s Day Treat
Looking for the perfect sweet treat to impress your family or loved ones? These heart thumbprint cookies are buttery, jam-filled bites of joy—ideal for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, birthdays, or just because!
Whether you’re baking with kids or prepping gifts for teachers, this recipe is simple, adorable, and delicious.
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Delicious Heart-Shaped Cookies with Jam Filling
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp almond extract (or vanilla)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup raspberry or strawberry jam
- Pinch of salt
Make baking easier with these tools I love (affiliate links):
- Wilton Heart Cookie Cutter Set
- OXO Cookie Scoop
- Silpat Nonstick Baking Mat
- Mixing Bowl Set with Lids
- Cooling Racks for Baking
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in almond (or vanilla) extract.
- Add flour and salt; mix until dough forms.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on cookie sheet.
- Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to press a heart shape into the center.
- Fill the heart indent with jam.
- Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until lightly golden at the edges.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Heart Thumbprint Cookies
- Chill dough for 30 minutes if it’s too soft to work with.
- Don’t overfill the heart cavity—just a small dollop of jam will do.
- Use the handle of a small spoon or knife to shape the heart more precisely.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–5 days.
Fun Variations to Try
- Chocolate-filled: Swap jam for Nutella or chocolate ganache.
- Lemon lover’s version: Use lemon curd for a zesty twist.
- Holiday cookie platter: Add red and green sprinkles for Christmas flair.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
FAQs About Heart Thumbprint Cookies
Can I use other types of jam?
Yes! Raspberry, strawberry, apricot, or even cherry jam works beautifully in this recipe.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Try chilling the dough before baking, and make sure your butter isn’t too soft.
How do I get the heart shape perfect?
Use the tip of a knife or the end of a spoon handle to help shape each side of the heart after your initial thumb press.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Definitely. Store in an airtight container or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can kids help with this recipe?
Yes! They’ll love pressing the heart shapes and adding the jam.
Final Thoughts
Heart thumbprint cookies are a charming and easy way to show someone you care—whether it’s Valentine’s Day, a bake sale, or a weekend baking project with your kids. With their soft texture and sweet jam center, they’re bound to become a family favorite.
📌 Love this recipe? Pin it to your Valentine’s board so you can bake it later!
💬 Have you tried these cookies? Leave a comment and let us know your favorite jam flavor!