Ingredients:

• 1 cup plus 1 1/2 tablespoons salted butter, softened (such as Kirkland grass-fed salted butter)
• 1 2/3 cups powdered sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 large egg yolks, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup jam or jelly of choice

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin or line it with mini muffin wrappers, preferably multicolored metallic foil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together and is smooth.
5. Scoop small amounts of dough (about 1 tablespoon) and press it into the bottom of each muffin cup. Press the dough up the sides slightly, leaving room in the center for the jam.
6. Fill each indentation with your choice of jam or jelly, about 1 teaspoon per cookie.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
8. Allow the cookies to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, serve and enjoy these colorful, festive cookies!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 134
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Protein: 1g

Enjoy baking these cheerful and delightful cookies!

The Origins and History of Jam-Filled Cookies

The tradition of filling cookies with preserves or fruit spreads can be traced back to several European cultures, particularly in Germany, where jam-filled cookies are a staple of holiday baking. Known by names such as Linzer Cookies (named after the city of Linz, Austria), these cookies often feature a nut-based dough with a jam center, traditionally filled with raspberry or apricot jam. The variation described in this recipe, using a simple butter-based dough, is similar in concept but does not rely on nuts. Instead, the smooth, crumbly texture of butter cookies pairs beautifully with the sweet, tangy taste of fruit preserves.

Jam-filled cookies have become a popular choice for their balance of texture, flavor, and visual appeal. The fruit filling not only offers sweetness but also adds a colorful element, making these cookies perfect for both casual and more elegant gatherings.

The Perfect Cookie Dough: A Foundation of Rich Butter and Powdered Sugar

The dough for jam-filled butter cookies is simple yet essential to the overall success of the treat. Using high-quality ingredients like salted butter, which adds depth to the flavor, and powdered sugar, which helps achieve a smooth texture, creates a dough that is both tender and slightly crumbly. The butter, in particular, is key to the rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the cookie. Choosing a high-quality grass-fed butter, such as Kirkland’s, enhances the flavor, ensuring that the cookies taste as good as they look.

The eggs and egg yolks help bind the dough together, providing both structure and richness. The addition of vanilla extract rounds out the flavors, giving the dough a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness of the jam.

While the dough is relatively simple, it’s important to mix it just enough to avoid overworking it, which can result in tough cookies. Once combined, the dough should be smooth and soft, making it easy to scoop and mold into the mini muffin cups.

The Role of Jam or Jelly: Sweet and Colorful Fillings

The jam or jelly filling in these cookies provides both flavor and visual appeal. While the dough itself is rich and buttery, the fruit preserves offer a burst of fruity sweetness that contrasts with the cookies’ slight saltiness from the salted butter.

You can use any type of jam or jelly for this recipe, allowing for customization based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Classic choices include strawberry, raspberry, apricot, or even blackberry. If you prefer a more tart filling, a sour cherry jam or lemon curd can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the dough. The beauty of these cookies lies in their versatility, as the jam flavor can be tailored to suit seasonal fruits or your favorite spreads.

For those looking for an extra touch of elegance, using a combination of jams in different colors can give the cookies a festive look, perfect for celebrations like birthdays, holidays, or special events. The multicolored filling not only adds a splash of color but also creates a delightful surprise when you bite into the cookie.

Baking Tips: Achieving the Perfect Texture and Shape

Baking these jam-filled butter cookies requires some attention to detail to ensure they come out with the right texture and flavor. Here are a few tips to help you get the best results:

• Temperature Control: Make sure that the butter is softened but not melted. Softened butter incorporates better with the powdered sugar, resulting in a light and fluffy dough. You can leave it out at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before baking.
• Press the Dough Gently: When scooping the dough into the muffin tin, make sure to press it gently into the bottom and up the sides. This will create enough space for the jam filling while ensuring that the dough bakes evenly. Be careful not to press too hard, as you want to maintain some thickness in the dough to support the jam filling.
• Jam Placement: When adding the jam or jelly, try to avoid overfilling the center of each cookie. A teaspoon of jam is generally the perfect amount. Overfilling can cause the jam to spill over during baking, which may result in a messy appearance.
• Baking Time: Bake the cookies for about 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary, and you don’t want the cookies to become too brown. If the tops start to get dark too quickly, reduce the baking time slightly.

Flavor Variations and Customizations

While this recipe provides a basic outline for making jam-filled butter cookies, there are many ways to customize them. Consider these variations to make your cookies even more exciting:

1. Nutty Dough: For a nutty twist, you can add finely ground almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts to the dough. This will give the cookies a slightly firmer texture and enhance their flavor, creating a more complex taste.
2. Spiced Dough: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or lemon zest to the dough to elevate its flavor profile. These spices pair especially well with fruit-based jams like strawberry or apricot.
3. Chocolate Lovers: If you’re a fan of chocolate, try adding a small amount of cocoa powder to the dough or dipping the cooled cookies in melted chocolate. Chocolate pairs wonderfully with raspberry or cherry jam, making for a decadent treat.
4. Vegan or Dairy-Free Options: You can make this recipe dairy-free by using plant-based butter and egg substitutes. Coconut oil can be a great alternative to butter, though it may alter the texture slightly.
5. Seasonal Variations: Use seasonal fruits like orange marmalade in the winter, or blueberry jam in the summer. This allows you to create unique variations that suit the time of year.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These jam-filled butter cookies can be served in a variety of ways, depending on the occasion. For a casual afternoon tea, serve them alongside hot tea or coffee. If you’re hosting a more formal gathering, arrange the cookies on a decorative platter with other finger foods or desserts. The vibrant colors of the jam filling will add a festive touch to any spread.

For a more indulgent dessert, serve these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of fresh whipped cream. They also pair well with a glass of dessert wine, such as a light Moscato or a fruity Riesling.

Conclusion: A Sweet and Versatile Cookie

Jam-filled butter cookies are a delightful and versatile treat that brings together the best of both sweet and savory flavors. The buttery dough, rich with the flavor of salted butter, complements the tart and sweet jam filling, creating a perfect balance in each bite. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday, a birthday party, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, these cookies will undoubtedly impress both in flavor and appearance.

By following a few simple techniques and adding your own personal touch, you can create a batch of these cheerful, colorful cookies that will become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate bite-sized indulgence.