These little bites of joy bring back so many memories of holiday baking and school lunchbox surprises. Coconut jam thumbprint cookies are buttery, chewy, and filled with sweet jam in the center — a perfect combo of texture and flavor. Whether you’re baking for guests or just craving something nostalgic, these cookies are a must!
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Why You’ll Love These Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies
These cookies have a soft, shortbread-style base with crisp edges, coated in shredded coconut for a toasty texture. A dollop of jam in the center makes every bite burst with fruity sweetness. Simple ingredients, beautiful presentation, and completely addictive.
Taste & Texture: Buttery, slightly crisp edges, jammy centers
Smell: Buttery vanilla with hints of toasted coconut
Perfect For: Holiday trays, tea parties, lunchboxes, or everyday snacking
Ingredients List
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (100g) sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla essence
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (80g) desiccated coconut
- ½ cup (120ml) smooth apricot or strawberry jam
Substitutions:
- Swap jam flavors: raspberry, fig, or pineapple work wonderfully
- Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a twist
- Try gluten-free flour blend if needed
Necessary Tools for Preparation
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Spoon or thumb for indenting
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (2–3 mins).
- Add egg yolk and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- Mix in flour gradually until a soft dough forms.
- Shape dough into balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Roll each ball in desiccated coconut to coat fully.
- Place on baking sheet and press the center gently with your thumb or spoon to form an indentation.
- Fill each center with a small amount of jam (about ½ tsp).
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool completely on wire rack before serving or storing.
Tips for Perfecting the Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
- Don’t overfill with jam — it may bubble over
- Chill the dough for 20 minutes if it’s too soft to handle
- Use a piping bag or small spoon for precise jam placement
- Toast coconut beforehand for extra depth of flavor
What to Serve With It
These cookies pair beautifully with:
- Earl Grey or rooibos tea
- Fresh fruit platters
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
More sweet treats to explore:
Storage Instructions
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week
- Fridge: Stays fresh longer — up to 10 days
- Freezer: Freeze plain or jam-filled cookies for up to 2 months
General Information
These thumbprint cookies are naturally egg-light (just one yolk!), customizable with various jams, and perfect for gluten-free tweaks. They also make gorgeous edible gifts during the holidays.
FAQ
Can I use shredded coconut instead of desiccated?
Yes, but pulse it in a food processor to make it finer for better coating.
What if my jam spreads too much?
Chill the filled cookies before baking, or use a thicker preserve or fruit spread.
Can I make the dough ahead?
Absolutely. Chill for up to 48 hours or freeze in balls and bake as needed.
Conclusion
These coconut jam thumbprint cookies are everything: buttery, coconut-crusted, and filled with jammy goodness. They’re easy, elegant, and always a hit. If you make them, tag your batch on Pinterest — we love seeing your creations!
Print
Irresistible Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies – Buttery & Easy to Make!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Buttery thumbprint cookies rolled in coconut and filled with jam — chewy, crisp-edged, and easy to make for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 cup butter
½ cup sugar
1 egg yolk
1 tsp vanilla essence
2 cups flour
1 cup desiccated coconut
½ cup apricot or strawberry jam
Instructions
Preheat oven to 175°C. Cream butter and sugar. Mix in yolk and vanilla. Add flour until soft dough forms. Roll dough balls in coconut. Place on tray, press centers. Fill with jam. Bake 12–15 min until golden. Cool and serve.
Notes
Chill dough if too soft. Use thick jam. Substitute almond extract for a flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
