Thumbprint Cookies(Swedish Tea Cakes)

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Cuisine: Swedish

Delightful Swedish thumbprint cookies feature a buttery base topped with jam and coated in nuts, perfect for tea parties or holiday treats, appealing to those who enjoy sweet, nutty flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter or oleo
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 egg, separated
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts
  • small jar strawberry jam

Instructions

  1. Mix together butter or oleo and brown sugar; beat well.
  2. Add egg yolk; mix in.
  3. Add flour; blend well.
  4. Make balls of dough.
  5. Roll each ball in beaten egg white.
  6. Then roll in finely chopped nuts.
  7. Place on greased cookie sheet.
  8. Make a dent in each with your finger and fill with strawberry jam.
  9. Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
  10. Remove from sheet while still warm.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of oleo. If you want a nut-free version, you can substitute the chopped nuts with crushed graham crackers or leave them out entirely. Ensure the dough is not too sticky; if it is, chill it briefly before rolling into balls. Using a small scoop can help create uniform cookies.

Serving Suggestions

These thumbprint cookies are delightful on their own but can be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with English Tea Muffins for a charming tea party spread. For added flair, dust with powdered sugar before serving or add a drizzle of chocolate on top.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover thumbprint cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes until just warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Thumbprint Cookies(Swedish Tea Cakes) contains roughly 550 calories, with 11g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.

550 kcal 28% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.5g 21% DV
Total Fat 12.8g 16% DV
Carbs 99.3g 36% DV
Fiber 1.6g 6% DV
Sugar 12.3g 25% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 89mg 4% DV
Potassium 456.4mg 10% DV
Cholesterol 81.2mg 27% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 19.8mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Calcium 100.7mg 8% DV
Iron 3.8mg 21% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of jam for these cookies?

Absolutely! While strawberry jam is traditional, feel free to experiment with raspberry, apricot, or even lemon curd for a unique twist. Just ensure the jam is thick enough to hold its shape when baked.

What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?

If your dough is crumbling, try adding a teaspoon of milk or water to help bind the ingredients together. Mix gently until the dough holds together well, but avoid overworking it to keep the cookies tender.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that contains xanthan gum for the best results. Be sure to check that your jam is also gluten-free to keep the recipe compliant.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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