If you’re looking to add a sweet, charming touch to your cookie collection, this Heart Jam Cookies Recipe is just the thing to warm your heart and delight your taste buds. These tender, buttery cookies sandwich a dollop of vibrant jam right in the center, creating a perfect mix of crumbly texture and fruity sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a cozy homemade treat, these cookies make every bite feel like a loving hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple, quality ingredients is all it takes to whip up these delightful Heart Jam Cookies Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture, from the smooth butter to the bright burst of jam nestled inside.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender crumb for the cookies.
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar: Adds sweetness without grit, ensuring a silky dough.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough while contributing to a soft, chewy bite.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a fragrant sweetness.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough, giving structure and perfect crumb.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
- 1/2 cup seedless raspberry or strawberry jam: The star filling that adds a luscious fruity punch.
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting (optional): Adds a pretty, delicate finish once the cookies are assembled.
How to Make Heart Jam Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by creaming the softened butter with powdered sugar in a large bowl until the mixture turns light and fluffy—this is where the magic begins, creating a silky base for your dough. Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything blends smoothly. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt to ensure even distribution. Gradually mix your dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough into two equal discs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour to firm up the dough, making it easier to roll and cut.
Step 2: Roll and Cut the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one chilled dough disc to about 1/8-inch thickness—thin enough to get that delicate snap, but sturdy enough to hold the jam filling. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut full hearts from the dough. For half of these cookies, use a smaller heart cutter to punch out the centers, creating charming “window” tops. Transfer all cookies gently to your prepared baking sheets to keep their lovely shapes intact.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
Bake your cookies for 9 to 11 minutes or until the edges just begin to turn a soft golden brown. This subtle color change indicates they are perfectly baked—not too soft and not overdone. Allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling fully is key for assembling without the jam sliding out.
Step 4: Assemble the Jam Sandwiches
Once cooled, take your whole cookies and spread a generous spoonful of your chosen jam right in the center of the flat side. Carefully place the cutout “window” cookies on top like a charming lid, gently pressing down to sandwich the jam in place. For a finishing touch, dust a light sprinkle of powdered sugar over the top to add a beautiful, snowy effect that looks as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Heart Jam Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies shine all on their own, sprinkling a delicate dusting of powdered sugar elevates their presentation and adds a slight sweetness that perfectly complements the fruity jam. You can also add a tiny fresh raspberry or strawberry on top for an extra pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Side Dishes
Heart Jam Cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, balancing the cookie’s sweetness with a soothing beverage. For a festive twist, serve alongside a glass of sparkling lemonade or a creamy hot chocolate for a cozy snack or dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
To really wow your guests, arrange the cookies on a decorative platter with some fresh berries and mint sprigs for a garden-fresh vibe. Gift them in a pretty box or tin lined with parchment paper for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or as thoughtful homemade gifts that show just how much you care.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once assembled, store your Heart Jam Cookies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their tenderness and freshness. They will keep beautifully for up to three days, making them perfect for prepping in advance for a party or special occasion.
Freezing
If you want to make these cookies ahead of time or save leftovers for later, you can freeze them. Wrap the cool cookie sandwiches individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When stored this way, they last up to a month without losing their flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy your frozen Heart Jam Cookies Recipe, simply let them thaw at room temperature. If you prefer them a bit warm, pop them in a low oven (around 300°F) for a few minutes to refresh the buttery texture and slightly soften the jam filling without melting the cookies.
FAQs
Can I use any type of jam for this recipe?
Absolutely! While raspberry and strawberry jam are classic choices for this Heart Jam Cookies Recipe, you can experiment with any flavor you love, such as apricot, blueberry, or even fig. Just make sure the jam isn’t too runny to prevent soggy cookies.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend suited for baking, you can make these cookies gluten-free. Just be sure to pick a blend that includes xanthan gum or another binder to keep the dough cohesive.
Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough firms it up, making it easier to roll and cut without sticking or losing shape. It also helps the cookies keep a tender, flaky texture after baking.
What if the dough gets too soft when rolling?
If the dough becomes too warm or soft while handling, simply pop it back in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to cool before continuing. This stops the butter from melting and keeps the dough workable.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
With some adjustments—like using vegan butter and a flax or chia egg substitute—you can create a vegan version of this Heart Jam Cookies Recipe. Look for vegan-friendly jam options to keep it consistent.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about homemade cookies filled with sweet jam that brings warmth and happiness with every bite. This Heart Jam Cookies Recipe not only satisfies a sweet tooth but also offers a little moment of joy you can share with friends and family. I promise, once you try these, they’ll become a beloved go-to treat you’ll revisit time and again. So roll up your sleeves, warm up that oven, and get ready to create some serious cookie magic!
Print
Heart Jam Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 sandwich cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these charming Heart Jam Cookies, perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion. Featuring buttery, tender cookies sandwiched with sweet raspberry or strawberry jam, these European-inspired treats combine a delicate texture with a burst of fruity flavor. Lightly dusted with powdered sugar, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
Filling
- 1/2 cup seedless raspberry or strawberry jam
Optional
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer or by hand until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt to ensure even distribution of the salt.
- Form the dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Chill the dough: Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a flat disc, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step firms up the dough and makes it easier to roll out.
- Preheat and prepare baking sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Roll and cut cookies: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one chilled dough disc to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies. For half of these cookies, use a smaller heart cutter to cut out the centers, creating “window” tops.
- Arrange and bake: Transfer all cookies to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden brown.
- Cool cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before assembling.
- Assemble sandwich cookies: Spread a small spoonful of your chosen jam on the flat side of each whole cookie. Top with a cutout cookie to form a sandwich. If desired, dust the assembled cookies with extra powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Notes
- Chill the dough again if it becomes too soft to handle during rolling.
- Use any flavor of seedless jam you prefer; avoid jams that are too runny to prevent soggy cookies.
- Store the assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
