Get ready to experience a mouthwatering explosion of flavors that will transport you straight to dessert heaven! These irresistible Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies are the perfect blend of rich, creamy peanut butter and sweet, fruity jam - a combination that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, these cookies are about to become your new obsession. Imagine biting into a soft, perfectly golden cookie with a delightful jam-filled center that melts in your mouth - sounds tempting, right?
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 27 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ cup jam (your choice)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and baking soda. Mix thoroughly using a hand mixer or wooden spoon until the ingredients are well incorporated and form a smooth, uniform dough.
- Using clean hands or a cookie scoop, roll the dough into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Using your thumb or the back of a rounded measuring spoon, gently press an indentation into the center of each cookie dough ball. Be careful not to press too hard, as you want to create a shallow well for the jam.
- Fill each thumbprint indentation with approximately ½ to 1 teaspoon of jam, choosing your favorite flavor such as strawberry, raspberry, or apricot.
- Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to allow them to set.
- Carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. The jam will be very hot, so allow sufficient cooling time before serving.
- Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your egg and peanut butter are at room temperature for the smoothest dough possible.
- Choose the right jam: Opt for a high-quality, thick jam that won't run too much during baking. Seedless varieties work best for a clean look.
- Create perfect thumbprints: If you struggle with using your thumb, try the back of a rounded measuring spoon for more consistent indentations.
- Don't overmix the dough: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the cookies tender.
- Watch the baking time carefully: Cookies can quickly go from perfectly golden to overdone. Start checking at 10 minutes.
- Cool completely before storing: This helps the cookies set and prevents the jam from making them soggy.
- Get creative with flavors: Experiment with different jam varieties or even try chocolate chips as an alternative filling!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 112kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 8mg
