16 Thumbprint Cookies with All Kinds of Fillings
Thumbprint cookies come in endless varieties, each one bringing something a little different to the table. Some are filled with tart fruit, others with rich chocolate or creamy curds, and a few go nutty or spiced for seasonal flair. The doughs range from buttery to nut-based, but they all share that signature dimple in the center filled with something flavorful. Here’s a lineup of 16 ways to enjoy these classic cookies in both traditional and unexpected ways.
Grinch Thumbprint Cookies
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These colorful cookies are dyed green and filled with red jam or a red candy drop in the center. They’re inspired by the holiday character and often finished with a sprinkle or heart decoration. The flavor is usually vanilla or almond. A festive cookie that’s fun to make with kids.
Get the Recipe: Grinch Thumbprint Cookies
Easy Thumbprint Cookies
This version keeps things simple with basic dough and any filling you like—jam, chocolate, or curd. There’s no need to chill the dough, and the recipe comes together quickly. They bake with a soft center and golden edges. Ideal when you need cookies fast.
Get the Recipe: Easy Thumbprint Cookies
Blueberry Thumbprint Cookies
These are filled with blueberry preserves or compote, adding a fruity and lightly tart center. The jam thickens slightly as it bakes, creating a vibrant contrast to the buttery dough. Try adding lemon zest to the base. Great for spring or summer trays.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Thumbprint Cookies
Salted Chocolate + Almond Butter Coconut Flour Thumbprint Cookies
Made with almond butter and coconut flour, these cookies are naturally gluten-free. The center is filled with dark chocolate and topped with flaky sea salt. They’re rich, slightly chewy, and nutty. A modern take that’s easy to customize.
Get the Recipe: Salted Chocolate + Almond Butter Coconut Flour Thumbprint Cookies
Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies
Bright yellow lemon curd adds a tangy pop to these soft cookies. The dough is often a shortbread-style base, balancing the smooth, tart filling. Dust with powdered sugar after baking. They work well chilled or at room temperature.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies
Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies
These bring a spiced, cozy twist with a center of apple butter. The dough may include cinnamon or nutmeg to boost the warm flavors. The apple butter thickens in the oven and becomes slightly sticky. Perfect for fall or winter baking.
Get the Recipe: Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies
Classic Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
A classic combination of buttery dough and raspberry jam creates a sweet-tart cookie. The edges are often rolled in sugar for extra texture. They hold their shape well and look great on a cookie platter. A year-round favorite that’s easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Classic Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies
Cream cheese in the dough adds richness and a subtle tang. The filling can be jam, chocolate, or lemon curd. These bake soft and slightly chewy. They’re easy to shape and don’t spread much in the oven.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies
Raspberry Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
Nutty dough made with ground hazelnuts holds sweet raspberry jam. The pairing gives depth and contrast without overpowering. Add a bit of chopped toasted hazelnuts on top if you like. These have a slightly more refined flavor profile.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
Thumbprint Cookies
This basic recipe works as a blank canvas for any filling. It uses a buttery dough shaped by hand, with the centers filled before or after baking depending on the filling. Great with jam, chocolate, caramel, or nut butters. A reliable starting point for any flavor combo.
Get the Recipe: Thumbprint Cookies
Cranberry Orange Thumbprint Cookies
These cookies have orange zest in the dough and are filled with tart cranberry sauce or jam. The flavors work especially well for winter or holiday bakes. They look vibrant with a deep red center. Add a citrus glaze for extra brightness.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Orange Thumbprint Cookies
Thumbprint Cookie Recipe
This is a standard version with classic dough and jam center—often raspberry, apricot, or strawberry. It’s flexible and forgiving, good for trying out different shapes or toppings. Works well rolled in sugar or finely chopped nuts. An essential for any baker’s list.
Get the Recipe: Thumbprint Cookie Recipe
Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies
Soft peanut butter cookies get filled with jam or chocolate for a rich, nostalgic flavor. The dough is simple to mix and bakes quickly. Try pressing a criss-cross pattern into the edges for extra detail. A crowd favorite every time.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies
Caramel Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
These use a chocolate cookie base and a gooey caramel center, sometimes with a sprinkle of sea salt. The caramel melts just enough to stay soft but not runny. Let them cool fully to set the middle. Great for a richer treat.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
Strawberry Almond Thumbprint Cookies
Almond-flavored dough is filled with strawberry preserves, combining sweet and nutty flavors. You can roll the edges in crushed almonds for added crunch. The red filling looks bright against the pale dough. A sweet and simple option with a bit of flair.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Almond Thumbprint Cookies
Pecan Thumbprint Cookies
These cookies use pecan pieces in the dough or on the outside, giving a buttery, nutty base. The center can hold jam, chocolate, or even maple glaze. Toasted pecans enhance the flavor. A solid pick for autumn baking.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Thumbprint Cookies
