Editing How to Bake Jam Cookies (section)

= How to Bake Jam Cookies =

Here's a comprehensive guide on how to bake jam cookies:

== What Are Jam Cookies? ==

Jam cookies, also known as thumbprint cookies or jam drops, are buttery shortbread-style cookies with an indentation filled with fruit jam. They are a classic cookie enjoyed around the world, especially during holidays.

== Ingredients ==

The basic ingredients for jam cookies typically include:

- Butter (unsalted, softened)
- Sugar (granulated or powdered)
- Egg yolks 
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Jam of choice (strawberry, raspberry, apricot, etc.)

Some recipes may also include:
- Almond extract
- Cornstarch (for extra tenderness)
- Chopped nuts (for coating)

== Step-by-Step Instructions ==

1. Cream butter and sugar:
   Beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes1<ref name="ref8">8</ref>.

2. Add wet ingredients: 
   Mix in egg yolks and vanilla extract until well combined1<ref name="ref8">8</ref>.

3. Incorporate dry ingredients:
   Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms1<ref name="ref8">8</ref>.

4. Shape cookies:
   - Roll dough into 1-inch balls1<ref name="ref8">8</ref>.
   - Place on lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart[1].

5. Create indentations:
   Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to make a depression in the center of each cookie1<ref name="ref8">8</ref>.

6. Chill dough (optional):
   Some recipes recommend chilling the shaped cookies for 30 minutes to prevent spreading[4].

7. Fill with jam:
   Add about 1/2 teaspoon of jam to each indentation1<ref name="ref8">8</ref>.

8. Bake:
   - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   - Bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden1<ref name="ref8">8</ref>.

9. Cool:
   Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack1<ref name="ref8">8</ref>.

== Tips for Perfect Jam Cookies ==

1. Use room temperature ingredients for better incorporation[2].

2. Don't overmix the dough to avoid tough cookies[2].

3. Make sure indentations are deep enough to hold the jam without overflowing[4].

4. Use thick, high-quality jam to prevent it from becoming too runny during baking[6].

5. If the dough is cracking when making indentations, let it warm up slightly or re-roll the ball to soften it[4].

6. For a more polished look, use a piping bag to add jam neatly to each cookie[4].

7. Allow cookies to cool completely before storing to maintain crispness[8].

== Variations ==

- Roll cookies in chopped nuts or coconut before baking for added texture[1].
- Use different jam flavors for variety - strawberry, raspberry, apricot, and blackberry are popular choices2<ref name="ref6">6</ref>.
- For a chocolate version, add cocoa powder to the dough and fill with chocolate ganache instead of jam[4].
- Make sandwich cookies by spreading jam between two flat cookies instead of creating thumbprints[12].

== Storage ==

Store jam cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week[12]. The cookies may soften slightly over time due to moisture from the jam[10].

By following these steps and tips, you can create delicious homemade jam cookies that are perfect for gifting, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.

== References ==
<references />