Cookies with jam and nuts
Jam and Walnut Cookies – A Family Delight
In a world filled with sophisticated and elaborate recipes, sometimes the simplest and most heartfelt treats bring us the greatest joy. These jam and walnut cookies, which I received from my mother-in-law, are a living proof that love can be found in every bite. With a tender dough, filled with delicious jam and topped with crunchy walnuts, these little delights are perfect for a relaxing afternoon or to be shared with loved ones. Let's discover together how to prepare them!
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 20 cookies
Required ingredients:
For the dough:
- 1 package (250g) butter, at room temperature
- 3 large eggs
- 350g flour
- 100g sugar
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
For the filling:
- Plum jam (or your favorite jam)
- Cornelian cherry jam (or another jam to taste)
- Walnuts, chopped into quarters (about 100g)
The history of jam and walnut cookies
Jam and walnut cookies have a long-standing tradition in home cooking, often prepared during holidays or special occasions. These treats are associated with moments of togetherness, when families gather to enjoy authentic flavors and share stories. Whether filled with plum jam, cornelian cherry jam, or even peach jam, each variation carries a personal touch, symbolizing love and care.
Step by step to prepare the cookies
1. Prepare the ingredients: Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature to facilitate mixing. Soft butter will blend much better with sugar and eggs.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, add the butter and sugar. Use a mixer on medium speed to combine the ingredients until the mixture becomes creamy and fluffy. Add the vanilla sugar and continue mixing.
3. Add the eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will yield a smooth and airy dough.
4. Incorporate the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder to avoid lumps. Gradually add the flour to the butter and egg mixture, mixing with a spatula or on low speed until you achieve a smooth dough. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
5. Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 15-20 minutes. This step will make the dough easier to roll out.
6. Preheat the oven: While the dough is chilling, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper or dusting it with flour.
7. Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough with a rolling pin until it reaches a thickness of about 2-3 mm. Use a glass or cookie cutter to cut out circles from the dough.
8. Bake the cookies: Place the dough circles on the prepared tray, leaving some space between them. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until they turn golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
9. Assemble: Once the cookies have completely cooled, take one cookie, add a teaspoon of plum jam on the bottom, and stick it to another cookie. Repeat the process until all cookies are assembled. On each cookie, add a small dollop of cornelian cherry jam and decorate with a quarter of a toasted walnut.
Serving suggestions
These jam and walnut cookies are excellent served with a cup of fragrant tea or freshly brewed coffee. They are also perfect to be given as gifts to friends or family, beautifully packaged in a decorated box.
Variations and tips
- Experiment with different types of jam. Raspberry or strawberry jam can add a refreshing note.
- If you want a richer flavor, add a splash of rum or almond extract to the dough.
- You can substitute walnuts with almonds or hazelnuts, according to personal preferences.
- If you want the cookies to have a crunchier texture, toast the walnuts in the oven for 5-10 minutes before using them.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use sugar-free jams? Yes, but the flavor and texture may vary. Make sure the jam is thick enough to adhere between the cookies.
- How can I store the cookies? These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Can I freeze the cookies? Yes, you can freeze them before filling them with jam. Make sure to package them well to avoid freezer burn.
Nutritional benefits
These jam and walnut cookies not only offer a delicious taste but also provide some nutritional benefits. Walnuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins, while the jam can add antioxidants from the fruit. Moderation in sweet treats can be part of a balanced diet, offering moments of indulgence and joy.
These jam and walnut cookies are not just a simple recipe, but also an opportunity to create precious memories around the table. With every bite, you will feel the warmth and love from home cooking. So, prepare them with an open heart and enjoy the moments spent with your loved ones!
Ingredients: 1 package of butter, 3 eggs, 350g of flour, 100g of sugar, 3 packets of vanilla sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder. For filling: plum jam, cornelian cherry jam, walnut quarters.
