How to Bake Jam Cookies
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[1].
2. Add wet ingredients:
Mix in egg yolks and vanilla extract until well combined1[1].
3. Incorporate dry ingredients:
Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms1[1].
4. Shape cookies:
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls1[1]. - 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[1].
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[1].
8. Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). - Bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden1[1].
9. Cool:
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack1[1].
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[2]. - 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.