Are you looking for a delectable treat that combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the sweet, tangy flavor of apricot? Look no further than Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies. These cookies are the perfect blend of smooth cream cheese and fruity apricot jam, nestled in a soft, buttery cookie. Read on to discover how you can make these delightful cookies at home.

What are Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies?
Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful variation of the traditional thumbprint cookie. They feature a buttery, cream cheese-infused dough that is rolled into balls, indented with a thumb or spoon, and filled with luscious apricot jam. The result is a tender, flavorful cookie that is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.
Ingredients List for Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies
To make these delicious cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 and ½ cups (313g), spooned and leveled
- Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Full-Fat Brick Cream Cheese: 6 ounces (170g), softened to room temperature
- Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (8 Tbsp; 113g), softened to room temperature
- Granulated Sugar: 1 cup (200g)
- Large Egg: 1, at room temperature
- Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon
- Pure Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Almond Extract: ½ teaspoon
Rolling & Filling
- Apricot Jam or Preserves: 6–7 Tablespoons (120-140g)
- Sliced Almonds (optional): ¾ cup (95g)
- Confectioners’ Sugar (optional): 3 Tablespoons (23g) for dusting
Substitutions and Variations
There are numerous ways to customize your Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few suggestions:
- Jam Variations: Substitute apricot jam with raspberry, strawberry, or any other fruit jam of your choice.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the sliced almonds if you prefer or if you have a nut allergy.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the butter and cream cheese with vegan alternatives and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these delightful cookies.

How to Cook Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Cream Cheese:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Egg:
- Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until light and fluffy. Then, add the egg, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and almond extract, and beat until well combined.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Shape the Dough:
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to make an indentation in the center of each dough ball.
- Fill with Jam:
- Spoon about ½ teaspoon of apricot jam into each indentation. If desired, sprinkle with sliced almonds.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
- Cool and Dust:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time:
- Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Underbaking: Ensure the edges are lightly golden before removing the cookies from the oven.
- Overfilling with Jam: Too much jam can cause it to overflow during baking. Stick to about ½ teaspoon per cookie.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies
Serve your cookies at room temperature, ideally within a few hours of baking for the best texture and flavor. They make a wonderful addition to any dessert table, afternoon tea, or holiday spread.
Presentation Ideas for Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies
- Elegant Platters: Arrange the cookies on a beautiful serving platter and sprinkle with a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar for a touch of elegance.
- Festive Packaging: For a gift, place the cookies in a decorative tin or box lined with parchment paper and tied with a festive ribbon.
- Party Displays: Create a dessert tower with different types of thumbprint cookies for a visually appealing and varied dessert display.
Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies Recipe Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, cream cheese, and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
- Chilling the Dough: If your dough is too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping.
- Jam Consistency: If your jam is too thick, warm it slightly in the microwave to make it easier to spoon into the cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping and baking.
Q: How should I store the cookies? A: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese? A: Full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor for these cookies. Low-fat versions may alter the consistency of the dough.
Q: What can I use instead of apricot jam? A: You can substitute any fruit jam or preserve of your choice. Raspberry, strawberry, or blackberry jam are great alternatives.
Conclusion
Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich creaminess of cream cheese with the fruity sweetness of apricot jam. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are easy to make and sure to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious flavors of these elegant thumbprint cookies. Happy baking!
PrintApricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and tangy with these Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies. Featuring full-fat cream cheese, apricot jam, and a hint of almond, these cookies are a delightful treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 34 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 and ½ cups (313g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 6 ounces (170g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- Rolling & Filling:
- 6–7 Tablespoons (120-140g) apricot jam or preserves
- Optional: ¾ cup (95g) sliced almonds
- Optional: 3 Tablespoons (23g) confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheets. Make an indentation in each ball and fill with apricot jam.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool on wire racks.
- Optional: Dust with confectioners’ sugar and sprinkle with sliced almonds before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for best results.
- Use any preferred fruit preserves if apricot is unavailable.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Leave a Reply