Raspberry Jam Sandwich Cookies

Raspberry Jam Sandwich Cookies are an irresistible treat that brings a delightful sweetness and a touch of nostalgia into every bite. Imagine biting into these tender cookies, where the buttery richness mingles perfectly with the tangy sweetness of raspberry jam. This recipe is a wonderful addition to your dessert repertoire, perfect for afternoon tea, weekend gatherings, or simply to indulge in a moment of comfort. It’s a step-by-step recipe that guarantees fun in the kitchen and joy on your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Raspberry Jam Sandwich Cookies recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it features easy preparation, making it a great option for both novice and experienced bakers. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll find yourself with a delicious outcome that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to get a taste. They’re not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The minimal ingredients offer a straightforward baking experience without compromising on flavor, giving you a delightful homemade treat that’s both satisfying and enjoyable.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups almond flour: Adds a nutty richness and tender texture.
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and balance to the cookies.
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuses warmth and depth of flavor.
1/4 tsp ground cloves: Adds a subtle spice that complements the raspberry perfectly.
1/4 tsp kosher salt: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together for perfect cookies.
2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Introduces a delightful aromatic sweetness.
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter: Ensures a rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough to perfection.
1/2 cup raspberry jam: The star ingredient that brings a fruity burst.
2 Tbsp powdered sugar, for garnish: Dusts over the top for that elegant finishing touch.

These ingredients combine to create cookies that are not only scrumptious but also simple to prepare, allowing you to explore the joy of baking!

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and kosher salt until well combined. The flour mixture will come together with a delightful aroma of spices that hints at the warming flavors of the cookies to come.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and vanilla extract. This mixture seems ordinary but carries the promise of heavenly flavor in each cookie.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until it becomes light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is essential as it creates the cookie’s tender texture.
Combine Ingredients: Add the egg mixture to the butter-sugar combo and beat until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients and beat until just incorporated. You want to ensure everything blends seamlessly without overmixing.
Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two halves and shape each into a disk. Place each disk between two large sheets of parchment paper and roll to 1/8-inch thickness. Chill for 2 hours or freeze for 30 minutes. Chilling the dough firms it up, making it easy to handle.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a couple baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cut Out the Cookies: Once chilled, peel away one layer of parchment from the dough. Use a 2-inch round cookie cutter to cut out the cookies. If you desire, use a smaller cutter to create shapes in half of the cookies, allowing for the beautiful display of raspberry jam.
Bake: Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space in between each cookie. Bake for 7 to 9 minutes, or until they turn lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheets.
Assemble: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of water into the raspberry jam and microwave on low for 30 seconds to soften it. Spread about 1/2 teaspoon of jam onto the center of a cookie and top with another cookie. Finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.

These steps will guide you toward creating Raspberry Jam Sandwich Cookies that are not only beautiful but also wonderfully delicious!

Tips & Tricks

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding lemon zest to the cookie dough. The bright citrus notes will complement the raspberry jam beautifully.
Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly; this is crucial for cutting the cookies cleanly and ensuring they hold their shape during baking.
If you’re short on time, the dough can be frozen. You can also prepare the cookies up to a week in advance and store them in an airtight container.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Enjoy these cookies fresh from the oven or alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They make a lovely addition to any afternoon tea spread or dessert buffet. For a festive touch, serve them at birthdays or family gatherings. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert or with a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information

Each Raspberry Jam Sandwich Cookie provides approximately 130 calories, 7g of fat, 15g of carbohydrates, and 1g of protein. Enjoy these cookies in moderation, balancing them with a healthy diet to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.

Storing Tips & Variations

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. You can reheat them in the oven or enjoy them straight from the freezer for a refreshing treat. Consider variations such as swapping raspberry jam for strawberry or apricot jam, or even adding chocolate chips for an indulgent twist!

Conclusion

Raspberry Jam Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweet, fruity flavors of raspberry with creamy, buttery cookies. This easy and welcoming recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels and makes for a charming addition to any gathering. Try making these cookies today and bring a little taste of nostalgia to your kitchen; don’t forget to share your experience!

FAQs

1. Can I use different kinds of jam?
Absolutely! While raspberry jam is the star in this recipe, you can substitute it with any fruit jam like strawberry, blueberry, or apricot according to your preference.

2. How can I ensure my cookies don’t spread too much?
Chilling the dough is key for cookies. Make sure you chill it for the full duration or even longer if possible. It helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and keep it wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to roll it out after it’s chilled for easy cutting!

4. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are ready when they turn lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them as oven times can vary.

5. What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store your Raspberry Jam Sandwich Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For extended freshness, freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Enjoy!