Heart Jam Cookies Recipe

Heart Jam Cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth delights filled with tart raspberry jam. These adorable cookies, with their charming heart shape, are perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion. They’re easy to make, taste amazing, and are sure to brighten anyone’s day. Let’s dive into the recipe and some tips to make them perfect every time.

Why You’ll Love Heart Jam Cookies

• Family-Friendly: A fun recipe for kids and adults to make together.
• Customizable: Use your favorite jam flavors to personalize the cookies.
• Perfect for Gifting: These cookies make thoughtful, homemade gifts for loved ones.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday, an anniversary, or just because, Heart Jam Cookies are always a hit.

What Are Heart Jam Cookies?

Traditional thumbprint cookies get a sweet twist with a heart-shaped indent filled with jam. These buttery cookies are soft, crumbly, and perfectly sweetened. The heart shape makes them extra special for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any day you want to spread love.

Ingredients for Heart Jam Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious cookies:

• Flour: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour.
• Cornstarch: 2 teaspoons for a tender crumb.
• Salt: Just 1/4 teaspoon to enhance sweetness.
• Butter: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature.
• Sugars: 1/3 cup light brown sugar and 1/3 cup granulated sugar for a balanced sweetness.
• Egg Yolk: Adds richness to the dough.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 1/2 teaspoons for warmth and flavor.
• Almond Extract: 1 1/2 teaspoons for a subtle nutty aroma (optional).
• Raspberry Jam: 1/2 cup of your favorite jam, warmed slightly for easy filling.

Pro Tip: Opt for seedless jam for a smoother finish, or use your homemade preserves for a personal touch.

How to Make Heart Jam Cookies

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Baking Sheets

Line two 13×9 baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Flour
• Cornstarch
• Salt

Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a stand or hand mixer, cream the butter with the sugars on medium-high speed until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

4. Add Wet Ingredients

Scrape down the bowl and mix in:

• Egg yolk
• Vanilla extract
• Almond extract (if using)

5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed. Scrape the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated.

6. Shape the Dough

Using a 1-tablespoon-sized scoop, roll the dough into smooth balls. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

7. Create Heart Shapes

Gently press a heart shape into the top of each dough ball using your pinky finger or a small spoon. Freeze the cookie sheets for 30 minutes or refrigerate for 1 hour.

8. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F.

9. Fill with Jam

Warm the raspberry jam slightly in the microwave (10–15 seconds). Use a small spoon to fill each heart-shaped indent with about 1/2 teaspoon of jam.

10. Bake the Cookies

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden. Cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Pro Tip: Make a deep indent to hold the jam securely and prevent overflow during baking.

Pro Tips for Perfect Heart Jam Cookies

• Chill the Dough: Prevents spreading and keeps the heart shape intact.
• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality butter and vanilla extract make a noticeable difference.
• Measure Flour Properly: Too much flour can make the cookies crumbly.
• Don’t Overfill: A little jam goes a long way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Heart Jam Cookies

Can I use a different type of jam or preserve for these cookies?

Yes! Strawberry, apricot, blueberry, or even blackberry jam work well. Just ensure the jam is smooth and slightly warmed to fill the heart indentations easily.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time and store them?

Absolutely! Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. Refrigerate for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

What can I use as a substitute for almond extract?

Replace it with an equal amount of vanilla extract for a simpler flavor profile.

How can I make sure the heart shape stays intact while baking?

Freezing or refrigerating the dough before baking ensures the cookies retain their shape.

Can I make the dough in advance and bake the cookies later?

Yes! Shape the dough balls, press the heart indentations, and freeze them. When ready to bake, fill with jam and bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Ensure all other ingredients, including the jam, are gluten-free.

Storage and Freezing Tips

How to Store Heart Jam Cookies

• At Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• In the Refrigerator: Store for up to 2 weeks.
• For Longer Storage: Freeze for up to 2–3 months. Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

How to Thaw Frozen Cookies

Let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
• Roll dough balls in sanding sugar before baking for extra sparkle.
• Drizzle cookies with melted white or dark chocolate for a gourmet touch.

Related Recipes

Looking for more sweet treats? Try these delicious ideas:

• Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe
• Birthday Cake Cost Guide
• How to Make Valentine’s Heart Petit Fours

Share Your Creations

If you’ve tried this Heart Jam Cookies recipe, I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or share your creation on social media. Don’t forget to tag me on Pinterest, Facebook, or Instagram to show off your sweet treats.

Happy baking!

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