Strawberry Picnic Thumbprint Cookies (Print Version)

Buttery shortbread paired with sweet strawberry jam centers, ideal for summer picnics and gatherings.

# What You Need:

→ Dough

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 2/3 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
04 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
05 - 2 cups all-purpose flour

→ Filling

06 - 1/2 cup strawberry jam, seedless preferred

→ Optional Decoration

07 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

# How To Make:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
03 - Beat in the vanilla extract and salt until fully incorporated.
04 - Gradually add the flour, mixing just until combined and a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
05 - Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
06 - Using your thumb or the back of a rounded teaspoon, make an indentation in the center of each dough ball.
07 - Fill each indentation with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of strawberry jam.
08 - Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
09 - Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10 - If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and beginner-friendly with minimal ingredients
  • Perfect make-ahead treat for picnics, tea parties, and potlucks
  • Buttery shortbread base pairs beautifully with sweet strawberry jam
  • Easily customizable with different jam flavors
  • Kid-friendly activity—little ones love making the thumbprints
02 -
  • Use seedless jam to avoid crunchy bits that can detract from the smooth texture
  • Don't skip the cooling time on the baking sheet—it helps cookies set properly
  • Make uniform dough balls for even baking and professional appearance
  • Re-press thumbprints immediately after baking if they've puffed up
  • Double the batch and freeze half the baked cookies for future gatherings
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