Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies

Name: Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp salt; ¾ cup brown sugar, packed; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg yolk; ½ cup of your favorite jam (raspberry, apricot, etc.)

Published: November 6, 2025

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies

This incredible Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies:

All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of your cookies, providing structure and texture. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Ground Ginger: Adds that signature zing! Opt for high-quality ginger to ensure maximum flavor in every bite.
Cinnamon: This spice brings warmth and sweetness; choose Ceylon cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.
Brown Sugar: Packed with molasses, it gives your cookies that rich caramel flavor. Light or dark works; just adjust accordingly!
Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for easy mixing and a richer taste. It’s essential for those melt-in-your-mouth vibes.
Egg Yolk: Provides moisture and richness to your dough; don’t skip it!
Your Favorite Jam: Whether raspberry, apricot, or even lemon curd, pick a jam that you love—this is where the magic happens!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me; this step is crucial because no one wants to bite into raw cookie dough pretending it’s gourmet!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This ensures an even distribution of those warm spices throughout your cookies.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer if you want to save your arm from workout fatigue!

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add egg yolk to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until fully incorporated. You’re building layers of flavor here that will knock your socks off!

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually blend in the dry ingredient mix until just combined. Don’t over-mix; we want tender cookies here—not cookie bricks!

Step 6: Form Cookies

Scoop out tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet about two inches apart. Now here comes the fun part—use your thumb (or a spoon if you prefer) to create little indentations in each ball.

Step 7: Fill with Jam

Fill each indentation with about half a teaspoon of your favorite jam—this is where you can let your creativity shine!

Step 8: Bake

Pop those beauties into the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until they’re lightly golden around the edges. Your kitchen will smell like heaven!

Transfer to plates and serve warm or allow them to cool before devouring. Enjoy these delightful treats with a cup of tea or coffee as you reminisce over cherished holiday moments.

These Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies are not just any cookies—they’re little bites of joy wrapped in nostalgia! Happy baking!

You Must Know About Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies

This showstopping Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by mixing the dry ingredients first, then cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Next, combine the two mixtures before chilling the dough. Once chilled, roll into balls and create thumbprints before baking for perfectly shaped cookies.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out regular flour for gluten-free options or add spices like nutmeg and allspice for extra warmth. You can also experiment with different fillings such as raspberry jam or chocolate ganache to personalize your Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about five minutes until warm and gooey again.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies

This professional-quality Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Baking these cookies reminds me of the time my niece declared I was officially “the best cookie maker ever.” That praise made all my flour-covered efforts worth it!

FAQs

What are Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies?

Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies are delightful treats that blend the warm spices of gingerbread with a sweet filling. These cookies typically feature a rich, spiced dough made from ingredients like molasses, ginger, and cinnamon. The thumbprint in each cookie creates a perfect well for jam or icing, adding both flavor and visual appeal. These cookies are often enjoyed during the holiday season but can be made year-round for any occasion. Their unique texture and taste make them a favorite among cookie lovers.

How do you make Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies?

Making Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies involves a few simple steps. Start by preparing your gingerbread dough using flour, butter, sugar, molasses, and spices. Once chilled, shape the dough into small balls and press your thumb into the center to create an indentation. Fill this well with your favorite jam or icing before baking until golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. This process is straightforward and yields delicious cookies that everyone will enjoy.

Can I freeze Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies! To do so, it’s best to freeze them before adding any jam or icing. After baking and cooling the cookies completely, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and fill them with your preferred topping. This makes it easy to have delicious cookies on hand whenever you want.

What variations can I try for Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies?

There are several fun variations you can try with Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies! Experiment with different fillings such as chocolate ganache, cream cheese frosting, or flavored jams like raspberry or apricot. You can also add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for added texture and flavor. For a festive touch, consider dusting the finished cookies with powdered sugar or drizzling melted chocolate over them. These creative adaptations will keep your cookie game exciting!

Conclusion

Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors perfect for any occasion. With their spiced dough and sweet fillings, these cookies bring joy to both bakers and eaters alike. Whether you’re making them for the holidays or just because, they are sure to impress everyone around you. Remember to explore various fillings and even freezing options for convenience. Enjoy crafting your own batch of Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies today!

Pin3

3 Shares