Easy Vegan Thumbprint Cookies: A Festive and Healthy Treat
Holiday cookies are all about nostalgia and tradition, and these Vegan Thumbprint Cookies deliver both in a healthier, modern way. With their jewel-like jam centers and buttery almond base, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. Plus, they’re quick to make, gluten-free, and naturally sweetened, so you can indulge with zero guilt.
Thumbprint cookies are a beloved holiday classic thanks to their simplicity and charm. The soft, buttery cookie base with its jewel-like jam center makes them both delicious and visually stunning—perfect for festive cookie trays and gift-giving. Their versatility also adds to their appeal; with endless options for jam flavors, they can be customized to suit any taste or occasion.
The origins of thumbprint cookies are often traced back to Scandinavian baking traditions, where they were known as “Hallongrotta,” meaning “raspberry cave.” These cookies have since gained popularity worldwide, becoming a staple in holiday baking for their delightful combination of texture, flavor, and beauty.
Perfect for cookie swaps, holiday trays, or just enjoying with your favorite tea, these thumbprint cookies will become a staple in your healthier baking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier and Gluten-Free: Made with almond flour and sweetened with maple syrup, these cookies are nutrient-dense and light.
- Vegan-Friendly: No eggs or dairy—just wholesome, plant-based ingredients.
- Customizable: Use your favorite jam flavors, from classic raspberry to festive cranberry-orange.
- So Easy: Just mix, shape, and bake—no complicated steps required!
Pro Tips for Perfect Thumbprint Cookies
- Prevent Cracks: If the dough cracks while pressing, gently reshape the edges with your fingers.
- Jam Variety: Experiment with different flavors like apricot, blackberry, or even a dollop of vegan Nutella.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to a month.
Love this recipe?
Pair these cookies with my upcoming Healthier Gingerbread Cookies for the ultimate holiday cookie tray! Don’t forget to check out my YouTube video for a step-by-step demo of these festive treats.
Vegan Thumbprint Cookies
Bake vegan thumbprint cookies for the holidays! Soft, buttery almond cookies filled with jam make the perfect festive treat for any celebration.
Ingredients
To Make
Preheat the oven:
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Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Make the dough:
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In a medium bowl, mix almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until a soft dough forms.
Shape the cookies:
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Roll the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Gently press your thumb (or a spoon) into the center of each ball to create a well.
Add the jam:
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Fill each well with about 1/2 teaspoon of jam.
Bake:
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool:
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Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings 18
Serving Size 1 cookie
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 100kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 6g10%
- Saturated Fat 2g10%
- Sodium 10mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 10g4%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 2g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
