Heart-shaped thumbprint Valentine cookies bring a tender cookie base together with a bright, jam-filled center. This heart-shaped thumbprint Valentine cookies recipe keeps the dough simple and the shaping easy, making it a great choice for holiday baking with family or friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft centers with crisp edges
• Festive heart shape for Valentine’s Day
• Uses pantry staples
• Easy shaping without cutters
• Perfect for gifting and sharing

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup raspberry or strawberry jam

Swap jam flavors to match preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line baking sheets.
2. Cream butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Mix in vanilla extract.
4. Stir flour and salt into the dough.
5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the sheet.
6. Press two fingers gently to form a heart shape.
7. Spoon jam into each heart center.
8. Bake heart-shaped thumbprint Valentine cookies for 12 minutes until set.

Serving Suggestions

Serve heart-shaped thumbprint Valentine cookies with tea, coffee, or milk. Arrange on platters or wrap in gift boxes for Valentine’s Day treats.

Quick Tips or Variations

• Chill dough briefly to help cookies hold shape.
• Use seedless jam for smooth centers.
• Dust lightly with powdered sugar after cooling.

FAQs

How do you make heart-shaped thumbprint Valentine cookies?

You roll dough into balls, shape gentle hearts with fingers, and fill the center with jam.

What filling works best for heart-shaped thumbprint cookies?

Raspberry and strawberry jam work well and keep color bright.

How do you keep thumbprint cookies from spreading?

You chill the dough and avoid overworking the butter.

Can you make heart-shaped thumbprint Valentine cookies ahead of time?

You can bake them one day ahead and store in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Heart-shaped thumbprint Valentine cookies add warmth and charm to any celebration. This recipe keeps the process simple while delivering cookies that look special and taste comforting.

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