Cookies with nuts

Nut and Plum Jam Cookies: A Nostalgic Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: Approximately 24 cookies

In a world filled with elaborate desserts, there’s something truly special about the simplicity of a cookie. These nut and plum jam cookies are not only a treat but also a journey back in time, reminding us of moments spent in the kitchen with loved ones. This is a recipe passed down through generations, lovingly and creatively adapted each time.

Ingredients

- 120 g butter at room temperature
- 70 g sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 egg (only the yolk)
- 150 g flour
- 100 g ground nuts
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- Plum jam (or thick fruit spread)

Step by Step: Making the Cookies

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier incorporation. Measure the sugar and flour accurately, as they are essential for the final texture of the cookies.

2. Creating the Cookie Base
In a large bowl, add the butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer or a spatula to mix until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. It’s important that the sugar is completely dissolved in the butter; otherwise, the cookies will have a grainy texture.

3. Adding the Egg Yolk
Add the egg yolk and mix well. This will add richness and moisture to the cookies, contributing to a soft texture.

4. Incorporating the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder, salt, and, if desired, a bit of vanilla sugar to enhance the flavor. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently to avoid lumps. You will obtain a soft, fine dough that is easy to handle.

5. Preparing the Nuts
Grind the nuts until you achieve a fine texture, but not too fine, to maintain some crunch. If you like, you can lightly toast the nuts before adding them to enhance the flavor.

6. Forming the Cookies
In a separate bowl, beat the egg white with a fork until frothy. Shape the dough into small balls, dip them in the egg white, and then roll them in the nuts. Make sure they are well coated to achieve a crispy crust.

7. Preparing for Baking
Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently press your finger in the center of each ball to create a small indentation. Add a teaspoon of plum jam to each indentation. While plum jam is ideal, you can experiment with other jams, such as apricot or raspberry, if you prefer.

8. Baking the Cookies
Preheat the oven to 150 degrees Celsius. Bake the cookies for 10-15 minutes or until the edges turn slightly golden. Every oven is different, so don’t hesitate to check the cookies every 10 minutes.

9. Cooling
After baking, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help maintain their crispy texture.

Practical Tips

- Jam Varieties: Instead of plum jam, you can experiment with apple or peach jam. Choose a thick jam to prevent it from leaking during baking.
- Nut Alternatives: If you don’t like nuts, you can use almonds or hazelnuts. Each type of nut will provide a distinct flavor and texture.
- Spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor, making the cookies a perfect treat for the colder season.

Nutritional Values

Each cookie contains approximately 80 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Nuts provide a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while plum jam adds antioxidants and vitamins. These cookies can be a healthier choice for a sweet snack when consumed in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can replace white flour with whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe to achieve optimal texture.

- How can I store the cookies?
Cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them.

- Can I add chocolate?
Absolutely! You can add dark or white chocolate chips to the dough for an extra delicious flavor.

Serving and Pairing

These cookies are delightful alongside a cup of tea or coffee. You can even serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Additionally, they make a perfect gift when beautifully packaged in a decorative box.

These nut and plum jam cookies are not just a simple recipe but also a way to bring joy to the lives of your loved ones. So, get ready to enjoy their inviting aroma and divine taste! Whether you savor them with friends or indulge in a personal treat, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to the faces of those who taste them.

 Ingredients: 120 g butter at room temperature, one egg, 70 g sugar, one packet of vanilla sugar, 150 g flour, 100 g nuts, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, a pinch of salt, plum jam (marmalade)

 Tags:  nut cookies biscuits