Air Fryer Thumbprint Cookie

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like making these cookies because they use simple ingredients I usually have on hand. The air fryer makes the process faster, and I don’t have to heat up my whole oven. I can fill them with strawberry, raspberry, or whatever jam I have in the pantry, so they’re always customizable. These cookies are perfect for holidays, gatherings, or just when I want a small-batch sweet treat.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

¾ cup unsalted butter softened
¼ cup shortening
1 ½ cups sugar
2 eggs
1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ½ cup flour
1 box instant vanilla pudding
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1/4 cup jam strawberry, raspberry, or your favorite kind
1/8 cup confectioners sugar optional

Directions

I start by creaming the butter, shortening, and sugar together in a medium bowl with an electric mixer.
Then I add the eggs, vanilla, and instant pudding mix, mixing until everything is well combined.
In another bowl, I stir the flour, baking powder, and salt. I slowly add this dry mixture into the wet mixture a third at a time until it forms a dough.
Next, I preheat my air fryer to 350°F for 3 minutes.
I scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. I flatten them slightly and press a well into the center with my thumb or a teaspoon. I fill each with a teaspoon of jam.
Once the air fryer is ready, I place a parchment paper liner in the basket and add the cookies about 1 inch apart. I bake them in batches for 5–8 minutes until set and lightly golden.
After baking, I let the cookies cool in the basket for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If I want a festive touch, I dust them with confectioners sugar once cooled.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 40 cookies.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes per batch

Variations

I like using different jams such as apricot, blueberry, or even lemon curd for variety. Sometimes I add a chocolate kiss in the center instead of jam for a classic chocolate version. The same dough also works well for M&M cookies, sugar cookies, or simple drop cookies, so it’s a versatile base I can use for different holidays and occasions.

Storage/Reheating

I keep the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If I want to store them longer, I freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. When I’m ready to enjoy them, I let them thaw at room temperature. The dough itself also freezes well, so I like portioning it out and freezing for fresh cookies later.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the dough in advance, refrigerate or freeze it, and bake when I need fresh cookies.

Do I need parchment paper in the air fryer?

I prefer using parchment paper to keep the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

I recommend butter for the best flavor, but margarine can work if that’s what I have.

Can I make these without shortening?

Yes, I replace the shortening with more butter if needed, though the texture may be slightly different.

How do I keep the jam from spilling over?

I make sure the well is deep enough and don’t overfill—just about a teaspoon of jam works perfectly.

Can I use sugar-free jam?

Yes, I sometimes use sugar-free jam for a lower-sugar option, and it works well.

Do these cookies brown in the air fryer?

Yes, they get a light golden color, but I watch closely since air fryer times can vary.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, I often double the batch when baking for holidays or parties.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

No, I don’t need to chill this dough—it goes straight into the air fryer.

How do I make them look more festive?

I like dusting with powdered sugar or using colorful jams to give them a holiday look.

Conclusion

I love making Air Fryer Thumbprint cookies because they are quick, simple, and always delicious. With buttery dough and sweet jam, they’re a classic treat I can whip up anytime. Whether I make them for holidays, parties, or just a cozy afternoon snack, they always turn out beautifully in the air fryer.