Vanilla Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies

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These Vanilla Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies are buttery, soft-centered delights with a hint of coconut and a burst of fruity jam in every bite. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving a sweet treat, these cookies bring a beautiful balance of textures and flavors that feel comforting and festive.

The combination of vanilla and coconut offers a tropical twist, while the jewel-toned jam adds both flavor and eye-catching appeal. They’re easy to make, kid-friendly, and perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. Make a batch and watch them disappear in no time!

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What Kind of Jam Works Best?

Raspberry and strawberry jam are classics for thumbprint cookies, but feel free to get creative. Apricot, blackberry, or even fig jam work beautifully. Use a thicker jam that won’t run while baking.

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Ingredients for the Vanilla Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup fruit jam of choice (raspberry, strawberry, apricot, etc.)

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How To Make the Vanilla Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies

Step 1: Make the Dough

Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract. Add flour and salt, and mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the beaten egg and coconut in separate shallow bowls.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Dip each ball in the egg, then roll in coconut to coat. Place on the baking sheet and press a thumb into the center to form a well.

Step 5: Add the Jam

Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of jam. Don’t overfill to avoid overflow during baking.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake for 13–15 minutes or until the coconut is golden. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

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How to Serve and Store These Cookies

Serve these thumbprints at room temperature, ideally with coffee or tea. They’re perfect on dessert trays, cookie exchanges, or as gifts.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months – just layer between parchment sheets.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of coconut should I use?

Use sweetened shredded coconut for the best texture and flavor contrast. Unsweetened works if you prefer less sweetness.

Can I make the dough ahead?

Yes! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for 1 month. Just let it soften slightly before shaping.

How do I prevent the jam from running?

Use a thick jam and avoid overfilling the centers. Chilling the dough also helps keep the shape.

Can I skip the coconut?

You can, but it adds wonderful texture and flavor. If skipping, roll the cookies in sugar before baking for a crisp edge.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Vanilla Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies for a deeper caramel crunch.
• Lemon Churro Cookies if you’re craving tangy meets warm spice.
• Chocolate Crinkle Sandwich Cookies with a soft ganache center.
• Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies if you prefer classic nostalgia.
• Brown Sugar Maple Cookies with cozy fall flavor.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use raspberry or go bold with fig? Try any fun toppings?

I love seeing all the ways you make these recipes your own. Questions welcome—let’s help each other bake better!

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