If you’re looking to brighten up your cookie jar with something irresistibly delightful, look no further than this Vanilla Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies Recipe. These little treats perfectly blend the soft, buttery crumb of classic thumbprint cookies with a tropical twist from shredded sweetened coconut and a burst of fruity jam nestled in the center. Every bite is a magical combination of creamy vanilla, chewy coconut, and sweet-tart jam that feels like a warm hug from an old friend. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or sneaking some for yourself, this recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredient list simple is what makes this Vanilla Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies Recipe so approachable and perfect for any baker. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the creamy butter that creates those tender cookies to the shredded coconut adding texture and that tropical flavor, plus the vibrant jam that delivers the perfect finishing touch.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Softened butter is essential for creating a rich, tender cookie dough that melts in your mouth.
- 2⁄3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just enough to balance the tang of the jam without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, aromatic notes that bring out the best in every bite.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives these cookies their structure and soft crumb.
- 1⁄4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors while balancing the sweetness.
- 2 eggs: Used for dipping the cookie dough balls, helping the shredded coconut adhere nicely to the outside.
- 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut: Adds a chewy texture and a tropical flair that’s absolutely irresistible.
- 1⁄3 cup jam or preserves (raspberry, strawberry, or tropical): The vibrant center filling that adds a pop of fruity sweetness in every cookie.
How to Make Vanilla Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Start by creaming together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process aerates your dough and sets the stage for tender cookies bursting with flavor. Then, beat in the vanilla extract to infuse that warm and inviting aroma right from the start.
Step 2: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Next, gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to your butter mixture. Mixing carefully until a soft dough forms ensures your cookies will be tender but with enough structure to hold their shape.
Step 3: Prepare Your Eggs and Coconut
In a small bowl, beat the eggs lightly. In another bowl, place the shredded sweetened coconut ready for dipping. This two-step prep gets you set for the signature coconut coating on each cookie.
Step 4: Shape and Coat the Dough Balls
Roll your dough into 1-inch balls—perfect bite-sized portions. Dip each ball into the beaten egg, then roll it in the shredded coconut, ensuring an even and generous coating that will crisp up beautifully during baking.
Step 5: Form the Thumbprint Wells
Arrange the coconut-coated dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press each ball to create a small well in the center, the perfect little nest for your jam.
Step 6: Fill with Jam
Spoon about 1⁄2 teaspoon of your favorite jam or preserves into each thumbprint well. The sweet and slightly tart jam will contrast beautifully with the buttery cookie and coconut.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Pop your tray into a 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 13 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the coconut edges turn golden and the cookies feel set but still soft in the center.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Allow your Vanilla Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes—this lets them set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step helps maintain their delicate texture.
How to Serve Vanilla Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To give your cookies a special finishing touch, consider sprinkling a little powdered sugar or even a few toasted coconut flakes on top once cooled. These simple garnishes enhance the visual appeal and add an extra hint of sweetness and crunch.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or even a chilled glass of milk. Serving alongside vanilla bean ice cream or fresh fruit can elevate your cookie experience into a charming dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try presenting the cookies on a rustic wooden board with bowls of assorted jams for dipping, or stack them in a glass jar tied with a ribbon for a charming gift. Their vibrant jam centers make for eye-catching treats perfect for festive occasions or cozy get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover Vanilla Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies will keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This lets the cookies maintain their soft texture without losing the fresh coconut flavor.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these cookies ahead of time, you can freeze the baked and cooled cookies in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving for that freshly-baked taste.
Reheating
To refresh the cookies, gently warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This quickly revives the coconut’s crispiness and melds the flavors back together.
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
Yes, you can use unsweetened shredded coconut for a less sweet option, but you might want to add a touch of extra sugar to the dough to balance the flavors.
What types of jam work best in this recipe?
Raspberry, strawberry, and tropical fruit jams are excellent choices because their bright, fruity flavors complement the coconut and vanilla beautifully. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, but be sure it’s one designed for baking to maintain the right texture.
Is it okay to skip the egg wash for the coconut coating?
The egg wash helps the coconut stick perfectly to the dough balls. Without it, the coconut may not adhere well, and you could lose that signature chewy texture.
How do I prevent the jam from spreading too much during baking?
Using a thick jam or preserves helps keep the filling in place. Also, ensure your thumbprint wells are well-pressed and slightly deeper to hold the jam securely.
Final Thoughts
This Vanilla Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies Recipe is truly a treasure to have in your baking repertoire. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find yourself making these cookies time and again because they’re just that delicious. They bring joy, nostalgia, and a bit of sunshine into every bite. Trust me, once you give this recipe a try, you’ll want to share it with all your friends and family—it’s that kind of cookie!
Print
Vanilla Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Vanilla Coconut Jam Thumbprint Cookies are buttery, soft, and coated with sweet shredded coconut. Each cookie is filled with a dollop of vibrant jam, making them a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With a tender crumb and a tropical twist, these cookies combine the richness of vanilla and coconut with fruity sweetness for a truly irresistible bite.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2⁄3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
Coating & Filling
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 1⁄3 cup jam or preserves (raspberry, strawberry, or tropical)
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is light in color and fluffy in texture. Then, beat in the vanilla extract thoroughly.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms without overworking it.
- Prepare Eggs and Coconut: In one small bowl, beat the eggs lightly. In another bowl, place the shredded sweetened coconut ready for coating.
- Shape and Coat Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Dip each ball first into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated, then roll it in the shredded coconut until evenly covered.
- Form Thumbprints: Place the coated cookie balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Use your thumb or a spoon to press a well or indentation into the center of each cookie, creating space for the jam.
- Fill with Jam: Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen jam or preserves into the center indentations of each cookie.
- Bake Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 13 to 15 minutes or until the coconut edges turn golden and the cookies are set but still tender.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Use sweetened shredded coconut for better flavor and texture.
- Feel free to substitute jam flavors to customize the taste.
- Ensure eggs are well-beaten for even coating.
- Don’t overbake the cookies to keep them soft and tender.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
