Tender cookies with plum jam

Delicacies for Carolers – Tender Cookies with Plum Jam and Coconut Flakes

As the holiday season approaches, when carolers appear with cheerful voices and hearts warmed by the joy of Christmas, nothing compares to a tray full of tender cookies filled with plum jam and sprinkled with coconut flakes. These treats are not only a delight for the taste buds but also bring a touch of tradition to every bite. Preparing them is a true art, but with a little patience and attention to detail, anyone can become a master of these delicacies.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 40 cookies

Ingredients

- 250 g lard
- 220 g sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 350-400 g flour (the amount may vary depending on the type of flour and the size of the eggs)
- 1 packet of vanilla essence
- Plum jam (enough for filling)
- 50 g coconut flakes (or more, to taste)
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Preparing the Cookies

1. Preparing the Lard: In a large bowl, add the lard. Use a mixer to cream it until smooth. This will give the cookies a tender texture and rich flavor.

2. Adding Sugar and Vanilla: Add the sugar and vanilla essence to the creamed lard. Continue mixing until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. The sugar will add sweetness and help caramelize the cookies during baking.

3. Incorporating the Eggs: Incorporate the two eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The eggs will help bind the ingredients and provide moisture to the dough.

4. Adding the Flour: Gradually sift in the flour, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon. The dough will begin to form, and when it becomes thick enough, start kneading with your hands. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour until you achieve a non-sticky consistency that easily pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

5. Shaping the Dough: On a well-floured work surface, take a piece of dough and roll it out with a rolling pin until you have a thin sheet, about 5 mm thick. This will ensure the cookies are tender and easy to handle.

6. Cutting the Cookies: Use cookie cutters or cups of varying sizes to cut circles from the dough. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes or until they turn slightly golden. Be careful, as each oven bakes differently; check them after 15 minutes.

8. Filling the Cookies: Once completely cooled, take one cookie, spread it with plum jam, and sprinkle coconut flakes on top for a firmer consistency. Place another cookie on top, forming a delicious sandwich. Repeat the process until you exhaust all the cookies.

9. Finishing: Finally, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for an elegant look and to add an extra touch of sweetness.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the Jam: Use quality plum jam, preferably homemade, which has a thicker consistency. You can also try other types of jam, such as apricot or raspberry, to add a personal touch.
- Flour: The type of flour can influence the texture of the dough. Cake flour is ideal for achieving tender cookies, but you can also experiment with whole wheat flour for a more complex flavor.
- Palm Oil or Butter: If you want an alternative to lard, you can use palm oil or butter, but the texture will be different.
- Vegan Option: You can adapt this recipe using margarine instead of lard and flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water = one egg).
- Storage: These cookies keep very well in airtight containers or well-sealed paper bags for several weeks.

Nutritional Benefits

These cookies are a source of carbohydrates and healthy fats due to the lard, which is also rich in vitamins. The plum jam adds fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced lifestyle. However, consume them in moderation, as each cookie has about 90-120 calories, depending on size and ingredients used.

Stories and Memories

Tender cookies with plum jam are more than just a recipe; they are tied to childhood memories, of times when mom or grandma gathered us around the table to prepare them together. It is a recipe that unites us, bringing not only delicious treats but also unforgettable moments with loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of jam?
Yes, you can experiment with various jams, such as raspberry, apricot, or even apple preserves. Each variation will bring a unique flavor to your cookies.

2. What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
Gradually add more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as the dough should remain soft and easy to handle.

3. How can I prevent the cookies from yellowing?
Bake the cookies at a moderate temperature and do not leave them in the oven too long. Check them constantly to achieve an even golden color.

4. Can the cookies be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies before filling them. Place them in an airtight container and use them when you crave something sweet.

Serving and Pairing

These tender cookies pair perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, but also with a glass of warm milk. You can serve them alongside vanilla ice cream for a more elaborate dessert.

So, let yourself be inspired by the magic of the holidays and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen, transforming simple ingredients into unforgettable memories!

 Ingredients: 250 g lard from pork fat 220 g sugar 2 eggs 350-400 g flour vanilla essence For filling: plum jam coconut flakes Additionally: powdered sugar

 Tags:  soft cookies with plum jam cookies fragile gem plum homemade sweets goodies for carolers