Introduction
Welcome to a sweet adventure in baking with these delightful Heart Jam Cookies! Perfect for gifting, sharing, or just enjoying those special moments, these cookies are both tender and buttery, with a luscious jam center that adds a pop of flavor to every bite. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, a special anniversary, or just want to bring a smile to someone’s face, these charming cookies will surely win hearts!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup fruit jam (raspberry, strawberry, or your choice)
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your cookies bake evenly and makes clean-up a breeze!
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes and fills your kitchen with a sweet aroma!
- Add the vanilla extract to the bowl and mix until well combined, enhancing the sweet fragrance of the dough.
- Sift in the flour and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms, being careful not to overwork it. The dough should be tender and slightly sticky to the touch.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. This thickness will give a chewy, yet crisp texture.
- Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each for spreading.
- With a smaller heart-shaped cutter, cut out the centers of half of the cookies. These will serve as the tops for your jam-filled sandwiches!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges just turn lightly golden brown. The aroma will be irresistible!
- Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Patience is key, as this allows them to firm up slightly.
- Once cooled, spread a teaspoon of your chosen fruit jam on the solid cookies. Top them with the cut-out cookies to create adorable little sandwich cookies.
- To finish them off, dust with additional powdered sugar before serving, adding a touch of elegance and sweetness!
Notes or Tips
- Experiment with different fruit jams to find your favorite flavor combination!
- For a festive touch, consider adding colorful sprinkles on top of the jam before placing the cookie lid on.
- If the dough is too soft to roll out, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Cooking Techniques
These cookies rely on simple techniques to achieve that perfect balance of tenderness and flavor. Creaming the butter and sugar together properly is essential, as it incorporates air and ensures a light texture. Rolling out the dough is another crucial step; make sure to flour your surface well to prevent sticking. Lastly, don’t forget to allow the cookies to cool completely before assembling! This helps them hold their shape and makes spreading the jam easier.
FAQ
Can I use margarine instead of butter? While butter gives the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
How should I store leftover cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!
Conclusion
These Heart Jam Cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious treat that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone around. So gather your ingredients, invite a friend, and let the joy of baking fill your kitchen!