Thumbprint cookies have a special place in the hearts of many as a holiday staple, a star at cookie exchanges, and a sweet gift for friends and neighbors. Their charming appearance and the delightful burst of jam at the center make them a cherished treat. Now, with this gluten-free version, everyone can partake in the joy of baking and savoring these delightful cookies—perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone simply looking to reduce gluten in their diet.
The best part? These Gluten-Free Thumbprint Cookies are so scrumptious that no one will suspect they’ve deviated from traditional recipes. Whether you choose to fill them with the glossy sweetness of strawberry or the tart vibrancy of seedless raspberry preserves, each cookie will be a testament to how gluten-free baking can match, and sometimes even exceed, the originals in both taste and texture.
A Taste of Tradition, Reimagined
Thumbprint cookies are a time-honored classic, and this gluten-free version remains true to the spirit of the original. All you need is the right blend of gluten-free flours and pecan meal, and these cookies achieve the perfect balance between buttery, flaky and crumbly, just like traditional thumbprint cookies.
The Jammy Centerpiece
The joy of a thumbprint cookie is the well of sweet, sticky jam nestled in its center—a perfect complement to the buttery cookie surrounding it. Strawberry and raspberry preserves are favorites, offering a burst of fruity flavor that beautifully offsets the richness of the cookie. The preserves not only add to the taste but also make these cookies a visually appealing treat, with their jewel-toned centers inviting a bite.
Elevate with Chocolate
For those who want to add an extra touch of indulgence, placing a chocolate kiss or a piece of Hu’s Chocolate Gem in the center immediately after baking elevates these cookies to new heights. The gentle heat from the freshly baked cookies will slightly melt the chocolate, making for a gooey, chocolatey core that’s irresistible.
Dairy-Free Adaptations
And let’s not forget about our dairy-free friends! These Gluten-Free Thumbprint Cookies are easily adaptable to a dairy-free diet. By simply swapping out traditional butter for a dairy-free alternative, you maintain the cookie’s delectable texture and flavor, ensuring everyone can enjoy this festive treat.
A Simple, Yet Impressive Cookie
Despite their elegance, these thumbprint cookies are surprisingly simple to make. The dough comes together quickly, and forming the thumbprint indent is a fun activity for bakers of all ages. Plus, they only require a short time in the oven, making them a great last-minute baking project.
The Joy of Sharing
The holidays are about sharing, and these Gluten-Free Thumbprint Cookies are the perfect shareable treat. They’re a delightful addition to any holiday gathering or cookie exchange, and their allergen-friendly recipe means that they can be enjoyed by a wide audience. So whether you’re sharing with a sweet neighbor or wowing friends and family, these cookies are sure to impress.
The Perfect Holiday Treat
Gluten-Free Thumbprint Cookies are more than just a cookie; they’re a celebration of the inclusive spirit of the holiday season. They prove that dietary conditions don’t have to mean compromise, and that the world of gluten-free baking is rich with possibilities. Bake a batch, fill your home with the sweet aroma of cookies in the oven, and feel great serving up these gems without refined sugars. Share the joy one delicious bite at a time.
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Gluten-Free Thumbprint Cookies
Thumbprint cookies have a special place in the hearts of many as a holiday staple, a star at cookie exchanges, and a sweet gift for friends and neighbors.
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: Makes 2–3 dozen cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 stick butter or alternative butter, chilled
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1 egg separated, yolk and whites
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 Tbsp. evaporated coconut milk (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt
- 3/4 cup King Arthur Measure for Measure Gluten Free flour blend
- 1 cup pecan pieces, finely ground into flour
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans (outside the cookie)
- Egg white
- Strawberry or Raspberry seedless jam
Instructions
- Cream butter and coconut sugar
- Add evaporated milk, vanilla, egg yolk and sea salt
- Stir in pecan flour and gluten free flour
- Wrap in parchment and in a baggie. Let rest in refrigerator for 1 hour or longer.
- Pre-heat oven to 350-degrees
- Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper
- Whip egg whites until stiff peaks form
- Using a 1-tsp measuring spoon, scoop cookie dough into palm of hand, roll into a ball
- First dip the cookie dough ball into -egg white meringue, then roll in the chopped nuts
- Place the ball onto parchment lined cookie sheet
- Bake cookies for 8 minutes or 6 on convection
- Remove and carefully, its hot, use your thumb to make the imprint.
- Fill the imprint with a little jam about 1/2 tsp. Too much and it will come out.
- Bake for another 4 minutes.
- Remove and allow to cool before serving.
Notes
Cookies will harden as they cool. Allow to cool completely before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
FAQs
What’s the best way to store gluten-free thumbprint cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. If you’ve added chocolate, wait for it to set before storing.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze them without the filling. Once they’ve cooled completely, layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, thaw and add the jam or chocolate.
How do I prevent the jam from running out of the cookies while baking?
Make sure to make a deep enough indent, and don’t overfill it. Using thicker preserves can also help them stay put while baking.
Can I make these cookies with other types of filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of preserves, or even nut butter or caramel.
This holiday season, let your baking be a beacon of inclusivity with these Gluten–FreeThumbprintCookies. They’re not just cookies; they’re a celebration of diversity, adaptability, and the sweet pleasure of enjoying food together. Happy baking!
Other cookies for your cookie exchange: Holiday sugar cookies, Hippie cookies, Trash cookies, French Macarons, molasses cookies, pecan bars. For more gluten free baking ideas check out our baking article!