Introduction
Warm, inviting, and delicate, these heart jam cookies are the perfect treat to share with loved ones! With their tender, buttery texture and sweet fruit filling, these cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring a touch of love to any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special day or simply indulging in a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies will make your heart skip a beat!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup fruit jam (your choice)
- 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.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined for a rich flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, creating a perfect dry blend.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness, enjoying the smooth texture beneath your hands.
- Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart cookies, placing them lovingly on the prepared baking sheet.
- With a smaller heart-shaped cutter, cut out the centers of half of the cookies to create a window for the jam.
- Spoon a small amount of your favorite fruit jam onto the solid cookies and gently top them with the cut-out cookies, pressing lightly to seal the love in.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown around the edges, and the sweet scent wafts through your home.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Finally, once they are cool, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for that special finishing touch!
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider using different types of fruit jams like raspberry, apricot, or strawberry. Each will bring a unique sweetness to your cookies. You can also experiment with a hint of lemon or almond extract for an added twist!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of cookie making is all about timing and texture. Ensure that your butter is softened but not melted for perfect creaming. Rolling out the dough on a floured surface prevents sticking and helps achieve that ideal thickness. Don’t rush the cooling process, as it allows the flavors to settle while the cookies firm up.
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked cookies. Just roll them out and cut them, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for the fruit jam?
You can use anything from chocolate hazelnut spread to lemon curd for a different flavor profile. Be creative with your fillings!
Conclusion
These heart jam cookies are not only a delightful treat but also a wonderful way to spread love and joy in every bite. Whether served at a party or gifted to friends, they beautifully convey your heartfelt sentiments. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the enriching experience of baking together!