Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of Heart Jam Cookies! These sweet treats are not only perfect for sharing with loved ones but also bring a touch of warmth to any gathering. Imagine sinking your teeth into a buttery, tender cookie, bursting with fruity jam and dusted with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar. It’s like a hug for your taste buds! Ideal for Valentine’s Day or just because, these cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fruit jam or preserves (your choice)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 2 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will create a lovely base for your cookies.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until everything is well combined and the batter is smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a disc. Wrap each disc in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies. Then, with a smaller heart-shaped cutter, cut out the center of half of the cookies to make a decorative top.
- Place the whole cookies on the prepared baking sheet and spoon about 1 teaspoon of your favorite jam into the center of each. Top with the cookies that have a heart cutout, gently pressing down to seal the edges.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies have a lovely aroma.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired, and enjoy these sweet delights with a cup of tea or coffee!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to experiment with different types of fruit jams or preserves to find your favorite flavor combination. Raspberry, strawberry, or even apricot can add a unique twist. And for an extra special touch, consider using colored sugar or sprinkles on top before baking!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming butter and sugars, make sure to really whip them together until the mixture is fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your cookies. Additionally, when rolling out the dough, keep your surface lightly floured to prevent sticking, and ensure even thickness for consistent baking.
FAQ
- Can I freeze the cookie dough? Yes, you can freeze the wrapped discs of dough for up to a month. Just thaw in the refrigerator before rolling out.
- What should I do if my jam is too thick? If your jam seems too firm, consider warming it slightly in the microwave, making it easier to spread onto the cookies.
- How should I store these cookies? Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for a longer shelf life!
Conclusion
Heart Jam Cookies are not just a treat but a cherished tradition waiting to be shared. Their delightful look and delicious taste make them perfect for any occasion. I hope you find joy in making and sharing these scrumptious cookies with friends and family. Happy baking!