A Sweet Tradition: Shortbread Cookies With Jam
There’s something truly magical about a warm kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies. Growing up, my family always gathered around the kitchen table for a simple treat that brought us closer together. It’s this memory that inspires me to share my recipe for Shortbread Cookies With Jam. These delightful cookies have been a favorite in my household for years. They’re easy to make, and their buttery, crumbly texture combined with sweet strawberry jelly creates a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a quiet Sunday afternoon, these cookies are sure to become a beloved part of your family’s traditions, just as they have in mine.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family-Friendly Fun: Making these cookies is a delightful activity for the whole family. Kids especially love shaping the dough and filling the hearts with jam. It’s a wonderful way to spend quality time together.
- Comforting and Delicious: The buttery shortbread paired with the sweet, fruity jam hits all the right notes for a comforting treat that feels like a warm hug.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen, making this recipe perfect for those spontaneous baking moments.
- Versatile: While strawberry jelly is a classic choice, you can experiment with different flavors like raspberry, apricot, or even a combination of your favorite jams.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are a charming addition to holiday cookie trays, afternoon teas, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
The Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 stick butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 10 teaspoons strawberry jelly
Directions:
Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with a silicone mat. This prevents the shortbread cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Beat the Butter: In a large bowl, add the softened butter and beat with an electric mixer on HIGH until light and fluffy. You’ll notice the butter change from yellow to a pale shade, indicating it’s ready for the next step.
Incorporate Sugar and Eggs: Gradually stream in the sugar while continuing to beat. Then, add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing well after each addition.
Mix in Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle the flour and salt evenly over the dough. Mix using the electric mixer until the dough starts to come together. It might seem crumbly, but don’t worry—the warmth of your hands will bring it together.
Form the Cookies: Scoop out 2 teaspoons of dough and roll it into a ball with your hands. Place each ball onto the baking sheet.
Shape the Heart: Dip your pinky finger in flour and press it sideways into each dough ball to create half of a heart shape. Repeat with more flour to complete the heart.
Add the Jam: Use a 1/4 teaspoon measure to place jelly on each side of the heart, totaling 1/2 teaspoon of jelly per cookie.
Chill the Dough: Place the cookies in the fridge for one hour to chill. This step is crucial for maintaining their shape during baking.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the cookies for 12 minutes, checking to see when the edges start to turn a golden brown. Allow them to cool completely on the baking pan before removing.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Electric Mixer: Essential for achieving that fluffy butter consistency.
- Silicone Baking Mat: Helps prevent the cookies from spreading.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Precision in baking is key.
- Baking Sheet: A large one to accommodate all the cookies.
- Spatula: For transferring cookies from baking sheet to cooling rack.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Butter: Provides a rich, creamy base that gives shortbread its signature texture. It’s important to use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and balances the flavors. It also helps in achieving a delicate crumbly texture.
- Egg: Acts as a binder, giving the cookies structure and moisture. It also adds richness to the dough.
- Vanilla and Almond Extract: Adds depth and a subtle hint of flavor that elevates the cookies. The combination of these extracts creates a distinctive aroma that enhances the overall taste.
- Flour: The foundation of the cookie, giving it body and texture. All-purpose flour works well for this recipe, providing the right balance of structure.
- Salt: Enhances the sweetness and flavors of the other ingredients. A small amount of salt can make a big difference in bringing out the flavors.
- Strawberry Jelly: Adds a sweet, fruity contrast to the buttery cookie, enhancing every bite. Opt for a high-quality jelly or jam for the best results.
What to Serve With This Dish
These Shortbread Cookies With Jam are delightful on their own, but here are a few pairing suggestions to elevate your experience:
- Tea or Coffee: A classic pairing that enhances the flavors of the cookies. The warmth of the beverage complements the buttery texture of the shortbread.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Create a simple, yet elegant dessert by serving warm cookies with a scoop of ice cream. The melting ice cream over the warm cookie is a treat for the senses.
- Fresh Berries: Complement the jam with a handful of fresh strawberries or raspberries. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookie.
For more delightful treats, be sure to check out my Lemon Drizzle Cake and Chocolate Chip Muffins.
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for the whole family to enjoy.
- Freezing: If you want to make a larger batch, these cookies freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: To enjoy that just-baked warmth, pop a cookie in the microwave for a few seconds before eating. This step brings back the freshly baked taste and aroma.
Exploring Variations and Customizations
One of the joys of baking is the ability to customize recipes to suit your tastes and preferences. Here are some ideas to make this shortbread cookie recipe your own:
Experiment with Jam Flavors
While strawberry jelly is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to explore other jam flavors. Raspberry, apricot, or blueberry jam can offer a new twist to the traditional recipe. You could even mix two types of jam for a unique flavor combination.
Add a Zesty Twist
For a refreshing touch, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough. The citrus aroma complements the buttery shortbread and enhances the fruity jam.
Chocolate Drizzle
For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate over the cooled cookies can elevate them to a gourmet level. The bittersweet chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweet jam.
Nutty Additions
Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, into the dough for added texture and flavor. You can also sprinkle some on top of the jam before baking for a crunchy finish.
Tips for Perfect Shortbread Cookies
Achieving the ideal shortbread cookie requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success:
- Use Softened Butter: Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature before starting. This helps achieve the right consistency for the dough.
- Don’t Overmix: Once the flour is added, mix just until the dough comes together. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for maintaining the shape of the cookies during baking. It also helps deepen the flavors.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies while baking. They should be a light golden brown around the edges. Overbaking can result in dry cookies.
The Joy of Sharing
Baking these Shortbread Cookies With Jam is more than just making a sweet treat; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with loved ones. Whether you’re baking with family, friends, or even spending a quiet afternoon alone, the process is therapeutic and rewarding.
Consider organizing a cookie exchange with friends or neighbors. It’s a fun way to share your creations and discover new recipes. Plus, it’s a wonderful opportunity to spread some cheer and connect with others.
A Tradition Worth Keeping
In conclusion, these Shortbread Cookies With Jam are more than just cookies; they’re a way to connect with family and create lasting memories. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your home as it has to mine. Happy baking, my friend! Remember, the best ingredient in any recipe is the love and joy you share with those you cook for.
As you embark on your baking journey, remember that each batch of cookies tells a story. It’s a tale of warmth, love, and the simple pleasure of enjoying a homemade treat. Whether you’re baking these cookies for the first time or the hundredth, may they always bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.
Shortbread Cookies With Jam
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line a large baking sheet with a silicone mat, and make room in your fridge for a cookie sheet.
- In a large bowl, add the softened butter and beat with an electric mixer on HIGH until light and fluffy.
- Stream in the sugar while beating.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract very well.
- Evenly sprinkle the flour and salt on the dough. Mix with the electric mixer just until it comes together.
- Scoop out 2 teaspoons of dough, roll it into a ball, and place on a baking sheet.
- Make heart shapes using your pinky and fill with jelly.
- Chill cookies in the fridge for one hour before baking.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and bake cookies for 12 minutes until edges start to turn golden brown.
- Let cookies cool on the baking pan completely before removing.