Jam-Filled Glazed Cookies
Jam-Filled Glazed Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Jam-filled glazed cookies are a delightful treat that combines buttery cookie dough, a sweet and tangy jam center, and a luscious glaze. These cookies are perfect for special occasions, gifting, or simply indulging in a sweet craving. Originating as a classic European dessert, they’ve won hearts worldwide for their versatility and rich flavors.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups (310g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1 cup (300g) raspberry, strawberry, or cherry jam (or your favorite flavor)
For the Glaze:
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: A few drops of lemon juice for a tangy glaze
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Assemble the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, create a shallow indent in the center of each dough ball.
- Fill each indent with a small spoonful of jam.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Add the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (if using) until smooth.
- Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cooled cookies. Allow the glaze to set before serving
History
Jam-filled cookies have roots in European baking traditions, particularly in Scandinavian and German cuisine, where similar treats like thumbprint cookies or Linzer cookies are popular. The combination of rich dough and fruity preserves has made these cookies a timeless classic.
Benefits
- Mood Booster: The sweet and tangy jam provides an instant serotonin boost.
- Versatile: You can customize the flavors by changing the jam or glaze.
- Homemade Goodness: Freshly baked cookies are healthier than store-bought options, with no preservatives
- Source of Quick Energy
- The combination of sugar in the glaze and jam, along with carbohydrates in the cookie base, provides a quick energy boost, making these cookies a great occasional treat when you need a pick-me-up.
- Customizable Nutritional Profile
- By choosing a jam with reduced sugar or made from fresh fruits, you can add vitamins like Vitamin C and antioxidants from berries or other fruits.
- Portion Control-Friendly
- These cookies are often small and can be enjoyed in moderation, satisfying a sweet craving without overindulging.
- Mood Booster
- The combination of sweet flavors and the joy of homemade treats can lift your spirits and provide comfort.
- Celebratory and Social Benefits
- These cookies are perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or gifting, encouraging social bonding and shared happiness.
- Encourages Creativity
- Making jam-filled glazed cookies allows you to experiment with different jam flavors, dough types, and glazes, enhancing your culinary skills and encouraging creativity in the kitchen.
- Homemade Options Are Healthier
- When made at home, you can control the quality of ingredients—using whole-grain flour, natural jams, or reducing sugar to make them healthier.
- Versatility in Pairings
- These cookies pair wonderfully with tea or coffee, adding a delightful treat to a moment of relaxation or a social tea party.
- Aesthetic Appeal
- Their beautiful, glossy glaze and colorful jam filling make them visually appealing, adding a touch of elegance to dessert spreads.
Enjoying jam-filled glazed cookies occasionally as part of a balanced diet lets you savor the sweetness while reaping these small but delightful benefits.
Nutrition (Per Cookie, Approx.)
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Calories: ~100–150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~18–22g
- Sugars: ~10–15g (from the jam and glaze)
- Fats: ~4–6g
- Saturated Fats: ~2–3g (if made with butter)
- Protein: ~1–2g
- Fiber: ~0.5–1g (higher if made with whole-grain flour)
- Sodium: ~50–100mg (varies with added salt or salted butter)
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin C: Minimal (from fruit-based jam)
- Calcium: ~5–10mg (from glaze or dough ingredients)
- Iron: ~0.3mg (from enriched flour)
How to Make Them Healthier
- Use Whole-Grain Flour: Boosts fiber content.
- Opt for Natural or Low-Sugar Jam: Reduces sugar intake.
- Swap Butter for Healthier Fats: Use olive oil or a plant-based spread.
- Reduce the Glaze: A lighter drizzle cuts down sugar.
- Add Nuts or Seeds: Improves protein and healthy fat content.
Nutrition Notes
- These cookies are a treat and are best enjoyed in moderation.
- They provide quick energy from the sugar and carbohydrates but lack significant protein or fiber unless modified.
- For a more nutrient-dense option, pair with fresh fruit or a cup of tea to balance the sweetness.
Conclusion
These jam-filled glazed cookies are a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. They’re bound to be a hit with your family, friends, and anyone who loves a perfect blend of buttery, fruity, and sugary flavors.
Enjoy these cookies as a snack, dessert, or gift them to spread the joy of homemade goodness!