When it comes to irresistible desserts, nothing quite compares to a batch of soft, buttery cookies filled with a luscious jam center and topped with a creamy vanilla glaze. These sugar cookies are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, enjoying a cozy afternoon tea, or looking for a simple yet elegant treat, these cookies are sure to delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delectable cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Cookie Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Jam Filling
- 1 cup of raspberry or strawberry jam (or your favorite jam flavor)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken the jam)
For the Vanilla Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Cookie Dough
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The goal is to get a pale, creamy consistency.
- Add the Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. This adds a delicious richness to the dough and helps bind everything together.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, blending just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as you want a tender crumb for the cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step makes it easier to handle and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
2. Shaping and Baking the Cookies
- Preheat the Oven: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Roll the Dough: Once chilled, take the dough out and roll it into 1-inch balls. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand, then use your thumb to create a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
- Fill with Jam: Spoon about ½ teaspoon of your chosen jam into each indentation. If your jam is too runny, you can mix it with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it, ensuring it stays in place during baking.
- Bake: Place the cookies in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The center should remain soft. Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack.
3. Preparing the Vanilla Glaze
- Combine the Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency if needed by adding more milk (for a thinner glaze) or more powdered sugar (for a thicker glaze).
- Glaze the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled completely, use a spoon to drizzle the glaze over each one. Let the glaze set for about 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Jam-Filled Sugar Cookies
- Use High-Quality Butter: For the best flavor, always use high-quality unsalted butter. It will give your cookies a rich and creamy texture.
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step. It makes the dough easier to work with and prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
- Choose the Right Jam: Opt for a thicker jam or preserves. If your jam is too thin, it might spread too much during baking. Thickening it with a bit of cornstarch can help.
- Keep an Eye on the Oven: Baking times can vary depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the cookies in the last few minutes to prevent them from browning too much.
Why These Cookies Are Perfect for Any Occasion
These jam-filled sugar cookies are not just any dessert; they are a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Versatility: You can customize these cookies with any jam flavor you prefer. Raspberry, apricot, and blackberry are all excellent choices. You can even use lemon curd for a tangy twist.
- Visual Appeal: The colorful jam filling adds a beautiful pop of color, making these cookies ideal for holiday gatherings or special events.
- Texture Combination: The contrast between the soft cookie, sweet jam, and creamy glaze creates a delightful bite that leaves you craving more.
- Make-Ahead Option: These cookies keep well for several days, making them a great option for make-ahead treats or gifts. Store them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh and delicious.
Nutritional Information
For those who are conscious about their calorie intake, here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional values per cookie (based on a batch of 24 cookies):
- Calories: Approximately 150 kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugars: 12g
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls for up to three months. Simply shape them, add the jam, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
2. What other toppings can I use?
Instead of a vanilla glaze, you can dust the cookies with powdered sugar, dip them in melted chocolate, or add a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra texture.
3. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure to chill the dough before baking, and use a silicone baking mat or parchment paper. Avoid using a greased baking sheet, as it can cause the cookies to spread more.
Conclusion
These jam-filled sugar cookies with a vanilla glaze are the perfect combination of sweet and buttery, with a touch of tartness from the jam. They are easy to make, customizable, and sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and delivers impressive results every time. Enjoy the baking process, and don’t forget to share these delightful treats with family and friends!