Introduction to Strawberry Jam Sugar Cookies

When you're looking for a delightful treat to sweeten a day or impress at a gathering, look no further than strawberry jam sugar cookies. These cookies are a perfect blend of buttery crispness and rich fruit flavor—an irresistible combination that resonates with both the young and the young at heart.

Why are they the perfect treat? First, they’re surprisingly simple to make and come together quickly, making them an ideal baking project for novice and seasoned bakers alike. The creamy sweetness of sugar cookies is elevated by vibrant ribbons of strawberry jam, offering a burst of fruity goodness in each bite. Plus, the jam adds a lovely pop of color, making these cookies not just delicious but also a visual treat!

Whether enjoyed with a warm cup of tea or presented as a sweet surprise at a brunch gathering, strawberry jam sugar cookies bring joy in a cookie form. Imagine the compliments you'll receive when your friends learn you made these beauties from scratch! Don't just take our word for it—check out expert baking tips on sites like King Arthur Baking for insights that will elevate your baking game even further.

Now, let's dive into the details of how to make these delectable cookies!

Ingredients for Strawberry Jam Sugar Cookies

Making strawberry jam sugar cookies is an enjoyable experience, especially when you gather all the right ingredients for a delightful treat. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these cookies that blend the sweetness of sugar and the tartness of strawberry jam:

All-Purpose Flour: 2 ½ cups (330g) – This forms the base of the cookies, providing structure and texture.
Baking Soda: ¾ teaspoon – Ensures your cookies rise beautifully while baking.
Kosher Salt: ¾ teaspoon – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (225g), melted and cooled – Adds richness and a tender crumb to the cookies.
Granulated Sugar: 1 ¼ cups (225g) – Sweetens your dough and contributes to a lovely texture.
Eggs: 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk – This combination helps with moisture and richness.
Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons – Infuses a wonderful aroma and flavor.
Strawberry Preserves: ½ heaping cup, chilled overnight – These will create that delightful jammy center in each cookie.

Before you dive into the baking process, consider checking out your favorite kitchen gear or some helpful baking tips from sites like Butter Baking for more inspiring ideas!

Preparing Strawberry Jam Sugar Cookies

Making strawberry jam sugar cookies is not just about baking; it’s a delightful process that fills your kitchen with sweet aromas. Let’s walk through the steps to create these delicious treats that are as fun to make as they are to eat!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you dive into the mixing, take a moment to gather all your ingredients. This makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¾ teaspoon baking soda
¾ teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
2 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ heaping cup strawberry preserves, chilled overnight

You can also find organic variations of these ingredients at your local grocery store or farmers market, making your cookies even more special.

Whisk the Dry Ingredients Together

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This step is crucial as it ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed, which helps the cookies rise beautifully. If you’re curious about the science behind baking, you might want to check out this informative guide to understand how each component affects your final product.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until it becomes a smooth, liquid-like mixture. The combination should be glossy and inviting! Next, add in the egg and egg yolk, whisking vigorously—this should take about a minute. The goal here is to create an emulsion that carries flavor and moisture through the cookies. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract for that signature touch.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Switch to a rubber spatula for this next step. Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Aim for a smooth dough by mixing carefully—too much mixing can make the cookies tough. It’s a delicate balance, so enjoy the moment!

Incorporate the Strawberry Preserves

Now for the fun part! Take your chilled strawberry preserves and plop spoonfuls throughout the cookie dough. Using your spatula, fold the dough 3-4 times at most. You want to see those beautiful ribbons of strawberry jam throughout, but don’t fully integrate it. This is where the magic happens—each cookie will have delightful bursts of strawberry flavor.

Portion the Cookie Dough

To create perfectly-sized cookies, use a large 2 oz cookie scoop (an ice cream scoop works beautifully too). Carefully scoop the dough, ensuring each scoop captures some preserves. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between each dough ball for spreading. The anticipation builds as you prepare to bake your strawberry jam sugar cookies.

And there you have it! You’re well on your way to crafting a batch of delightful cookies that are both visually stunning and irresistibly tasty. Happy baking!

Variations on Strawberry Jam Sugar Cookies

When it comes to strawberry jam sugar cookies, deliciousness knows no bounds! Here’s how you can mix things up.

Different Jams to Try

While strawberry jam offers a delightful sweetness, why not explore other flavors? Here are some tasty alternatives:

Raspberry Jam: Adds a tart note that balances the sugar.
Apricot Preserves: A unique, fruity twist that brings a lightness to every bite.
Peach Jam: Infuses a summery flavor that’s sure to delight.

Adding Flavors to the Dough

You can elevate your cookie experience by adding extra flavors to the dough itself:

Almond Extract: A half teaspoon can provide a lovely nutty undertone.
Zest of Lemon or Orange: Brightens the dough and pairs beautifully with jams.
Spices like Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Just a pinch can add warmth and complexity.

Making these simple tweaks allows you to tailor your cookies to your taste, impressing your friends and family (or even just yourself on a cozy night in!). Happy baking!

Baking Tips for Strawberry Jam Sugar Cookies

Baking strawberry jam sugar cookies is a delightful way to enjoy fruity flavors in a classic treat. Here are some handy tips to ensure your cookies come out perfect:

Use Chilled Jam: Chilling your strawberry preserves overnight helps them hold their shape better during baking. This will create beautiful, gooey ribbons in each cookie.
Don’t Overmix: After adding the preserves, mix just a few times to maintain those gorgeous swirls. Overmixing can cause the jam to disperse too much.
Perfect Portion Control: Using a 2 oz cookie scoop ensures uniformity, making your cookies bake evenly.

For more baking tips, check out King Arthur Baking for expert advice! Enjoy your cookie-making adventure!

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Jam Sugar Cookies

When you bake strawberry jam sugar cookies, consider how to elevate your serving experience. Here are some delightful suggestions:

Pair with Fresh Berries: Serve your cookies alongside fresh strawberries or mixed berries for a vibrant contrast. The fresh fruit enhances the flavor and adds a refreshing crunch.
Wonderful with Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be a perfect complement. A dollop on top of each cookie makes for a delightful treat, reminiscent of shortcakes.
Milk or Tea Lovers Unite: Don’t forget a tall glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of herbal tea. The creamy and rich flavors will mingle perfectly with the fruity sweetness of the jam.
Creative Presentation: Consider stacking the cookies on a beautiful dessert platter or arranging them in a mason jar for a rustic touch.

For more tips on serving desserts, check out these ideas. Happy baking!

Time Details for Strawberry Jam Sugar Cookies

Preparation Time

Getting ready to bake your strawberry jam sugar cookies is a breeze! Allow about 15 minutes for measuring ingredients, mixing, and preparing your dough. It’s a quick and enjoyable process—perfect for a cozy day at home.

Baking Time

Once your dough is ready, pop those cookies into the oven and let them bake for around 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they're done when they just start to turn golden around the edges.

Total Time

In just about 30 minutes, you'll have delightful strawberry jam sugar cookies fresh from your oven. This includes preparation and baking, making it easy to squeeze this treat into your busy schedule. Who doesn’t love a quick, delicious bake?

For more insights on cookies, visit King Arthur Baking for expert tips or check out Food52 for creative variations on classic recipes. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information for Strawberry Jam Sugar Cookies

When you indulge in strawberry jam sugar cookies, it’s helpful to understand their nutritional profile:

Calories

Each cookie packs approximately 150 calories, making it a delightful treat without compromising too much on your daily intake.

Protein

You'll find around 1.5 grams of protein per cookie. While not a primary protein source, it's a nice bonus to your treat!

Sodium

These cookies are relatively low in sodium, containing about 75 mg each. Ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth without straying too far from a balanced diet!

With these insights, you can enjoy your strawberry jam sugar cookies guilt-free! For more healthy snack options, consider exploring resources like the USDA FoodData Central. Happy baking!

FAQs about Strawberry Jam Sugar Cookies

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of preserves?

While fresh strawberries are a delicious option, they won’t work as well as preserves in strawberry jam sugar cookies. Strawberry preserves bring a concentrated sweetness and smooth texture that fresh berries can’t replicate. If you crave a fruity twist, consider making a homemade strawberry jam, which you can then chill before incorporating it into the cookie dough.

How do I store leftover cookies?

To maintain their freshness, store leftover strawberry jam sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll typically stay good for about a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them, though this might alter their texture slightly.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Freezing the cookie dough is a great way to have freshly baked cookies on demand. Simply scoop the dough onto a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, just add a couple of minutes to the bake time from frozen.

For more tips on storing cookies, check out this informative guide from Taste of Home.

Conclusion on Strawberry Jam Sugar Cookies

In conclusion, strawberry jam sugar cookies are a delightful treat that elevates any gathering or quiet evening at home. Their sweet tang from the preserves combined with the buttery cookie base creates a irresistible contrast. Enjoy baking them, and don't forget to share with loved ones for added joy!