If you’ve ever wished for a cookie that’s insanely simple yet irresistibly delicious, then you are in for a treat with this 3 Ingredient Thumbprint Cookies Recipe. Imagine tender, chewy coconut cookies with a vibrant burst of fruity jam right in the center—perfect for those moments when you want a sweet snack with minimal effort but maximum flavor. These cookies are so quick to whip up, and their charm lies in the simplicity and harmony of just three ingredients working together to create something truly special. Whether it’s your first time baking or you’re a seasoned pro, these cookies will become a cherished favorite in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, these three straightforward ingredients are the heart and soul of the 3 Ingredient Thumbprint Cookies Recipe. Each is essential, bringing its own magic—texture, sweetness, and that satisfying hint of fruity goodness.
- Shredded coconut (3 cups/249g): Choose unsweetened and finely shredded for a chewy, textured base that holds together beautifully.
- Sweetened full fat condensed milk (1 can/14oz/397g): This rich, sticky liquid acts as both a sweetener and binder, ensuring your cookies stay soft and moist.
- Raspberry or strawberry jam (2/3 cup/201g): Adds a pop of tangy sweetness right in the center of each cookie; it’s the perfect finishing touch!
How to Make 3 Ingredient Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting, line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This step ensures your cookies bake evenly without sticking and keeps cleanup super easy.
Step 2: Mix Coconut and Condensed Milk
In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut and sweetened condensed milk. Stir thoroughly until the coconut is completely coated. This mixture should feel sticky and hold together well, which means you’re ready for the next step.
Step 3: Scoop and Shape the Dough
Using a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough. With lightly wet hands, gently roll each scoop into a smooth ball. The wet hands help prevent sticking and give your cookies a neat finish. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading.
Step 4: Create the Thumbprint Indents
Press your thumb, or the back of a 1-teaspoon measuring spoon, firmly into the center of each ball to make a nice large indent. Your cookie should resemble a thick round disk with a well in the middle—the perfect little nook to hold that jam.
Step 5: Add Jam and Bake
Fill each indent with approximately 1 scant teaspoon of your chosen jam. Bake in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes or until the edges just begin to turn golden brown. Be careful not to overbake; you want the cookies tender and chewy, not crispy.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet. This helps them set perfectly before you transfer them to a container. Once cool, store in an airtight container for 1 to 2 days at room temperature, or extend their shelf life by refrigerating or freezing.
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Although these cookies shine on their own, you can dress them up with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few finely chopped toasted almonds sprinkled on top before baking for extra texture and appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair your thumbprint cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of your favorite tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. The creamy and fruity notes blend beautifully with warm beverages, elevating your snack time.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these delightful cookies on a tiered dessert stand or nestled in small cupcake liners for a charming presentation at parties or holiday gatherings. You can even compose a colorful cookie platter featuring various jam flavors to wow your guests with variety.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store your 3 Ingredient Thumbprint Cookies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They remain soft and delicious, perfect for snacking without fuss.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed container with parchment paper layers separating each batch to prevent sticking. They will keep well for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy homemade treats anytime.
Reheating
Reheat frozen cookies gently in a low oven or microwave just until warmed through. This refreshes their soft texture and revives that luscious jam center, making them taste freshly baked every time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of jam in the 3 Ingredient Thumbprint Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! While raspberry and strawberry jams are classic, you can experiment with apricot, blackberry, or even marmalade to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Is it necessary to use full fat condensed milk?
Using full fat condensed milk ensures the right texture and moisture level in your cookies. Low fat versions might make the cookies less chewy and can affect overall richness.
Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t contain flour. Just double-check that your shredded coconut and jam don’t have any added gluten-containing ingredients.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure to space the dough balls about two inches apart and avoid adding extra moisture. Slightly wet hands for shaping help keep the dough together without making it too sticky.
Can I substitute coconut with another ingredient?
The shredded coconut is key to the texture and flavor here, so substitutions aren’t recommended. However, if coconut isn’t your thing, experimenting with finely ground nuts might yield a different but tasty batch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about whipping up the 3 Ingredient Thumbprint Cookies Recipe that always brings a smile to my face. These cookies prove that you don’t need a pantry full of ingredients or hours of prep to create a sweet treat that’s bursting with flavor and joy. So grab those three simple ingredients and get baking—you’re in for a deliciously sweet adventure that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Print
3 Ingredient Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 31 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make 3 Ingredient Thumbprint Cookies featuring shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and your choice of raspberry or strawberry jam. These chewy, sweet cookies are perfect for a quick treat or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Cookie Base
- 3 cups (249g) unsweetened finely shredded coconut
- 1 (14oz/397g) can sweetened full fat condensed milk
Filling
- 2/3 cup (201g) raspberry or strawberry jam
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut and sweetened condensed milk. Stir thoroughly until the coconut is completely coated and the mixture becomes sticky enough to shape.
- Form Dough Balls: Using a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop, portion the dough into even scoops. With lightly wet hands to avoid sticking, roll each scoop into a smooth, round ball. Arrange the balls on your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.
- Create Indents: Press your thumb or the back of a 1 teaspoon measuring spoon gently into the center of each cookie ball to create a deep indent. This will hold the jam filling during baking.
- Add Jam Filling: Carefully spoon about 1 scant teaspoon of raspberry or strawberry jam into each indent, making sure to fill but not overflow.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown, indicating they are cooked through.
- Cool and Store: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets before transferring them. Store uneaten cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days, or refrigerate/freezer them to extend freshness.
Notes
- Lightly wetting your hands helps prevent the sticky dough from clinging while rolling.
- Space cookies well apart on the baking sheet to avoid them sticking together as they spread slightly.
- You can substitute the jam with other fruit preserves, chocolate spread, or nut butter depending on your preference.
- Ensure cookies are fully cooled before storing to maintain their texture and prevent sogginess.
- For a lower sugar version, consider using a low-sugar jam, but note this may slightly alter the sweetness and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
