Heart Jam Cookies: 7 Sweet Steps to Pure Delight

Oh, Heart Jam Cookies! Just saying the name makes me smile. These delightful treats are like little hugs from the oven, with a soft, buttery texture that melts in your mouth. The sweet raspberry jam filling is the star of the show, bursting with flavor and adding a lovely contrast to the tender cookie. What I adore most about this recipe is the charming heart shape—you know, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a sweet surprise for your loved one or a fun treat for a gathering with friends.

I remember the first time I made these cookies. It was a rainy afternoon, and I wanted something cozy to lift my spirits. I mixed the dough and filled each heart with jam, watching as they baked to a golden perfection. The smell wafting through the house was absolutely intoxicating! Trust me, there’s something so special about watching people’s faces light up when they take a bite of these cookies. It’s like spreading joy, one heart-shaped cookie at a time. This recipe has become a beloved tradition in my kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Ingredients List

• 2 ¼ cups (280 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• ⅓ cup (70 g) light brown sugar, packed
• ⅓ cup (67 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ teaspoons almond extract (optional)
• ½ cup raspberry jam
• Optional: lemon or orange zest, sanding sugar

How to Prepare Heart Jam Cookies

Getting ready to bake these Heart Jam Cookies is half the fun! I promise, once you see how easy it is to whip up this delightful treat, you’ll want to make them again and again. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make sure you have cookie perfection every time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, let’s prepare our baking sheets. Line two 13×9-inch baking sheets with parchment paper. This little step prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

Next, let’s mix our dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. This combination is crucial for achieving that soft texture, so don’t skip it! Set this bowl aside for now.

Now, it’s time for the star of the show: the butter and sugars! In your stand mixer (or with a hand mixer), cream the softened unsalted butter together with both sugars on medium speed. Gradually bump it up to medium-high for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is key to getting the right texture, so keep an eye on it. It should look creamy and pale, almost like whipped honey!

Once that’s done, scrape down the bowl and mix in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, the almond extract. The almond extract might seem optional, but it adds a lovely depth of flavor that you won’t regret!

Now it’s time to combine the wet and dry ingredients. With the mixer set to low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Scrape the bowl as needed to make sure everything is fully combined. You don’t want any floury bits hiding in there!

When the dough is ready, it’s time to shape those cute cookies! Using a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop, form dough balls and roll them smoothly between your palms. This is where the fun begins! Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

Here comes the creative part: make small heart shapes in the tops of each cookie using your pinky finger. It’s a simple touch that makes all the difference. Just a gentle press will do—don’t go overboard!

Now, let’s chill that dough! Pop the baking sheets in the freezer for 30 minutes or refrigerate them for an hour. This step helps the cookies hold their shape while baking, so don’t skip it!

While the cookies are chilling, you can preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. After the chilling time is up, heat the raspberry jam in a small microwave-safe bowl for about 10-15 seconds until it’s slightly runny. This makes it easier to fill the hearts!

Using a ¼ teaspoon or a small spoon, carefully fill each heart indent with about ½ teaspoon of jam. Don’t overfill, or it might bubble over while baking!

Finally, bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, until the edges just start to turn golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly, I promise! Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. And there you have it—your very own Heart Jam Cookies, ready to bring smiles to everyone who gets to enjoy them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare: These cookies come together in no time, making them perfect for a last-minute treat or a cozy baking session on a rainy day.
• Perfect for special occasions: Their charming heart shape makes them a delightful addition to any celebration, be it Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or just to show someone you care.
• Soft texture with a sweet jam filling: The combination of a tender cookie and a burst of fruity jam creates a heavenly treat that melts in your mouth.
• Customizable with different jams or zests: Feel free to experiment with your favorite jams, like strawberry or apricot, and add a touch of lemon or orange zest for a refreshing twist!
• Ideal for sharing with loved ones: Whether you’re gifting them or serving at a gathering, these cookies are sure to spread joy and smiles among family and friends.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Heart Jam Cookies turn out perfectly, I’ve got a few pro tips that will make all the difference!

First off, don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes is crucial for helping the cookies maintain their shape while baking. If you’re in a hurry, the freezer works wonders, but if you have the time, the fridge is great too. Just be sure to cover the dough if you’re refrigerating it for a longer period.

When it comes to baking, keep an eye on those cookies! Ovens can vary, so start checking around the 10-minute mark. You want the edges to be just golden, while the centers may look a bit soft—that’s perfectly fine as they’ll firm up as they cool.

If you’re looking to switch things up, feel free to substitute the raspberry jam with your favorite flavor! Strawberry, apricot, or even a mixed berry jam can bring a new twist. And if you’re not a fan of almond extract, you can easily omit it or replace it with a splash of extra vanilla for a classic flavor.

Lastly, don’t hesitate to add a sprinkle of sanding sugar on top before baking for a touch of sparkle. It’s those little details that make your cookies truly shine!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for Heart Jam Cookies. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, so consider this a guideline!

• Serving Size: 2 cookies
• Calories: 234
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
• Trans Fat: 0.4 g
• Cholesterol: 34 mg
• Sodium: 35 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 11 g
• Protein: 3 g

These Heart Jam Cookies are a delightful treat to enjoy in moderation, perfect for sharing or indulging on special occasions! Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve got a sweet and satisfying cookie in hand.

FAQ Section

Got questions about Heart Jam Cookies? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries to help you bake these delightful treats with confidence.

Can I use different types of jam?
Absolutely! Feel free to switch up the jam based on your preference. Strawberry, apricot, or even mixed berry jams work wonderfully in this recipe. Just remember, the flavor will change a bit with each jam, but they’ll all be delicious!

How do I store leftover cookies?
To keep your Heart Jam Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They’ll last about a week at room temperature. If you want to keep them even longer, pop them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Trust me, they’ll still taste amazing!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can definitely make gluten-free Heart Jam Cookies! Just swap out the all-purpose flour for a good gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, like the baking powder and sugar, are also gluten-free. They’ll still be scrumptious!

What can I substitute for the almond extract?
If almond extract isn’t your thing or you don’t have it on hand, no worries! You can simply omit it or replace it with an extra splash of vanilla extract for a classic flavor. You’ll still end up with cookies that are just as delightful!

How long do these cookies last?
When stored properly, these Heart Jam Cookies can last about a week at room temperature or up to two weeks in the fridge. They can also be frozen for a couple of months if you want to save some for later. Just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn!

Feel free to reach out if you have any other questions or need baking advice. I’m here to help you make the best Heart Jam Cookies ever!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your Heart Jam Cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay tasty for about a week, but I bet they won’t last that long! If you want to keep them even longer, you can pop them in the refrigerator, where they’ll remain good for up to two weeks. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to maintain their lovely texture.

If you need to reheat them, simply pop a cookie in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until they’re warm and inviting again. You can also place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to bring back that fresh-baked warmth. Enjoy those delightful bites as if they just came out of the oven!

Serving Suggestions

Heart Jam Cookies are not just a treat—they’re a delightful experience! One of my favorite ways to serve them is alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. The rich, buttery flavor of the cookies complements the warmth of your drink perfectly, making it a cozy afternoon indulgence.

For special occasions, consider arranging these charming cookies on a dessert platter. You can mix them with other treats like mini cupcakes or chocolate truffles for a colorful spread that’s sure to impress your guests. They also make a lovely addition to any picnic basket, adding a sweet touch to your outdoor gatherings.

And don’t forget, a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top or a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate their presentation even further. No matter how you serve them, these cookies are bound to bring smiles and joy to everyone!

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