Name: Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies with Cranberry Jam Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup molasses; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup cranberry jam; 1/4 cup additional granulated sugar

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The tantalizing scent of warm spices wafts through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy holiday gathering. As I prepare to bake Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies with Cranberry Jam, I can’t help but smile at the thought of sharing these delightful bites with loved ones. These easy-to-make holiday cookies offer a unique twist: a chewy texture contrasted with the tart burst of cranberry jam that ignites the palate. Not only are they a festive treat perfect for any celebration, but they also make for a comforting homemade dessert that’s bound to become a favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned home-chef or just exploring your culinary skills, you’ll love how quickly you can whip these up, leaving you more time to savor special moments. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the aroma of gingerbread and jam? Let’s dive in!

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Why Are These Cookies So Special?

Unique Twist: These Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies combine traditional holiday flavors with a vibrant cranberry jam filling, offering a delightful contrast that will excite your taste buds.

Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress friends and family without stressing about complex techniques.

Festive Appeal: Brighten up your holiday gatherings as these cookies not only taste good but also look beautiful on any dessert table.

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with different jams or add-ins, like nuts or chocolate chips, making this recipe uniquely yours!

Nostalgic Experience: The warm, spiced aroma fills your kitchen and creates a cozy ambiance that echoes memories of cherished holiday moments.

Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s for a party or a cozy afternoon at home, these cookies are bound to bring smiles and happiness to everyone who tries them.

Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability to the cookies.
• Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help cookies rise.
• Ground ginger – Adds warm spice flavor, typical of gingerbread.
• Ground cinnamon – Enhances sweetness and adds a lovely aroma.
• Ground nutmeg – Contributes a slightly nutty undertone that complements the spices.
• Ground cloves – Offers a robust, aromatic spice note that’s essential for gingerbread.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor for the cookies.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness and creaminess; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookie dough beautifully.
• Brown sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor, deepening the taste.
• Molasses – Gives the cookies their distinct gingerbread flavor and dark color.
• Large egg – Binds the ingredients together and enriches the texture.
• Vanilla extract – Introduces a sweet, floral note to enhance flavor.

For the Filling
• Cranberry jam – Serves as a filling, providing tartness and a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the gingerbread.

For Rolling
• Additional granulated sugar – Used for rolling the cookie dough balls, adding sweetness and an appealing texture.

These Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies with Cranberry Jam are bound to be a proud addition to your holiday festivities. Enjoy the delightful moment of creating and sharing these lovely treats!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies with Cranberry Jam

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This setup will ensure that your Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies bake evenly and you can easily transfer them once they’re ready.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt until thoroughly combined. This mixture will create the flavorful base for your cookie dough, ensuring an even distribution of spices that will shine through in every bite.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a larger mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Continue mixing for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy – a visual cue that the sugars have fully dissolved, enhancing the texture of your Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, incorporate the molasses, large egg, and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until all ingredients are fully combined, about 1-2 minutes. This step adds moisture and brings your dough together, imbuing it with delectable flavors and a rich texture.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 6: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 15-20 minutes. Chilling helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to handle while shaping. You’ll know it’s ready when you can easily scoop it without it sticking too much to your hands.

Step 7: Shape and Roll the Dough
Once chilled, use a tablespoon to scoop out portions of dough, rolling them into smooth balls between your palms. Dip each ball in granulated sugar to coat them lightly. This step adds sweetness and will give your Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies a lovely sparkle once baked.

Step 8: Create Thumbprints
Place the sugared dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one. Press your thumb gently into the center of each ball, creating a small indentation that will later hold the cranberry jam. This little detail is what makes these cookies truly special!

Step 9: Fill with Cranberry Jam
Carefully spoon cranberry jam into each thumbprint, filling it generously but not overflowing. The tartness of the cranberry jam will beautifully counterbalance the warmth of the gingerbread, enhancing each bite of your cookies.

Step 10: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking; the ideal doneness will give you chewy cookies with crisp edges. Once finished, allow them to cool for 10 minutes on the baking sheets.

Step 11: Transfer and Cool
After the cookies have cooled slightly, transfer them to a wire rack using a spatula. This allows the last bit of warmth to escape, ensuring your Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies maintain their delightful chewy texture. Let them cool completely before enjoying or storing.

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Make Ahead Options

These Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies with Cranberry Jam are perfect for busy home cooks looking to savor the holiday spirit without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply shape the dough into balls, roll them in sugar, and refrigerate. Additionally, you can make your cranberry jam up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just fill the thumbprints with chilled jam and pop them in the oven. This approach ensures the cookies stay just as delicious while saving you valuable time, allowing you to enjoy these festive treats with minimal effort!

Tips for the Best Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies

Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your cookies; they should be slightly golden around the edges after 12-15 minutes. Overbaking can lead to a crumbly texture instead of the desired chewy bite.
Chill for Perfect Shape: Chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes makes it easier to handle, preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Thumbprint Technique: Press your thumb gently into the dough to create a well for the cranberry jam, but not too hard as it can crack the surface.
Jam Consistency Matters: Ensure your cranberry jam is thick enough to hold its shape in the thumbprint while baking; otherwise, it could leak out.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap out the cranberry jam for your favorite, like raspberry or apricot, allowing your Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies to shine with your personal touch.

How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you like them chilled, keep them in the fridge for up to 10 days; just ensure they are sealed tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, layer the cookies between parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or gently microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, festive treat that tastes freshly baked.

What to Serve with Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies with Cranberry Jam

Nothing pairs better with these delightful cookies than a warm, inviting beverage or a seasonal side that complements their cozy flavors.

Hot Cocoa: Enhance the sweet and spicy flavors of the cookies with a rich mug of creamy hot cocoa topped with whipped cream.
Spiced Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai tea brings out the aromatic notes of ginger and cinnamon, creating a soothing balance.
Fresh Fruit Salad: The tartness of a refreshing fruit salad, featuring apples and oranges, beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the cookies.
Cheese Platter: Add a selection of mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese to bring a creamy element that pairs well with the spiced cookies.
Gingerbread Latte: This festive coffee drink mirrors the cookie flavors while providing a warming caffeine boost, perfect for holiday gatherings!
Maple Glazed Carrots: Side these cookies with sweet and savory maple glazed carrots for a unique yet delicious combination that’s still festive.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting over the warm cookies creates a comforting dessert experience that’s irresistible.
Nutty Biscotti: For a crunchy texture, serve alongside almond or hazelnut biscotti that echoes the warm spices of the gingerbread.
Sparkling Cider: Celebrate with a glass of sparkling apple cider that adds a fizzy sweetness to your cookie experience.
Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of homemade cranberry sauce brings an added tartness that beautifully complements the sweet warmth of the cookies.

Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies with Cranberry Jam Variations

Feel free to make these delightful candies uniquely yours by adding your personal touch and experimenting with different ingredients!

Fruit Jam Swap: Replace cranberry jam with raspberry or apricot for a fun flavor twist that’s equally festive.
Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for added texture and nutty richness; they bring a beautiful crunch to every bite.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in chocolate chips before baking if you’re drawn to the sweet harmony of gingerbread and chocolate; it’s a match made in heaven.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the dough for a delightful heat that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the jam.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or dairy-free butter in place of unsalted butter, without sacrificing flavor, for a vegan-friendly version.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies accessible for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
Citrus Zing: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough to brighten the flavor profile and offer a vibrant burst of citrus.
Holiday Cheer: Decorate the baked cookies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or edible glitter for a sparkling presentation that will impress your guests.

Explore these variations and enhance your Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies with Cranberry Jam, and do check out other festive delights like [Homemade Samoas Cookies](https://savoryweeknightmeals.com/homemade-samoas-cookies-recipe-delicious-easy/) or [Browned Butter Cookies](https://savoryweeknightmeals.com/browned-butter-toffee-chocolate-chip-cookies-recipe/). Each twist adds a special touch to the cozy atmosphere of your holiday celebrations, so enjoy the journey of baking!

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Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies with Cranberry Jam Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberry jam should I use?
Absolutely! You want to choose a cranberry jam that is thick enough to hold its shape while baking. Look for all-natural or homemade jams without too much liquid, as this will prevent the filling from leaking out during the baking process. If you can, taste the jam before using to ensure the flavor pairs well with your cookies!

How should I store my Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies?
Store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This helps maintain their chewy texture and rich flavor. If you prefer them slightly chilled, you can also store them in the fridge for up to 10 days. Just remember to seal them tightly to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze, layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked taste.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies tend to spread too much during baking, try chilling the dough longer before shaping it into balls. Also, make sure your butter is softened, but not melted. Overmixing the dough can lead to a runny texture as well, so be cautious when combining your ingredients!

Are these cookies safe for pets?
Generally, it’s best to keep these cookies away from pets. The spices used, like nutmeg and the sugars, can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always consult your vet before sharing any human food, especially if it contains ingredients like chocolate, which is toxic to pets.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Yes! If you’re looking to customize your Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies, you can swap out the cranberry jam for other fruit jams like raspberry or apricot for different flavors. Additionally, feel free to mix in chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the dough for added texture and flavor. The more the merrier!