Name: Heart Jam Cookies
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup strawberry or raspberry jam; Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

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Heart Jam Cookies are tender, buttery shortbread-style cookies filled with a sweet, glossy jam center shaped like a heart. Lightly dusted with powdered sugar, these charming cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious. They make a thoughtful treat for holidays, gift boxes, bridal showers, or any occasion where you want to add a touch of sweetness and elegance.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies combine visual appeal with exceptional flavor. The buttery dough creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the jam adds a bright fruity contrast. Despite their sophisticated appearance, the cookies are simple to prepare and require only basic ingredients found in most kitchens. Their heart-shaped centers make them perfect for moments of celebration—especially Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or special gatherings where presentation matters. These cookies store well, travel well, and always impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

unsalted butter, softened
granulated sugar
egg yolk
vanilla extract
all-purpose flour
salt
strawberry or raspberry jam
powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and smooth.
Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until fully blended.
In a separate bowl, whisk flour and salt together.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, forming a soft dough.
Scoop portions of dough and roll them into balls.
Place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
Using a small heart-shaped tool (or gently shaping with your fingertip and a toothpick), press a heart imprint into the center of each dough ball.
Fill each heart indentation with a small amount of jam, smoothing it to avoid overflow.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and Timing

Makes approximately 20 cookies
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 10–12 minutes
Cooling Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: around 35 minutes

Variations

Almond Heart Cookies: Add almond extract to the dough for a sweet, nutty aroma.
Lemon Jam Cookies: Use lemon curd instead of jam for a bright, citrusy option.
Mixed Jam Variety: Use different flavors such as apricot, blackberry, or cherry.
Chocolate Heart Cookies: Fill the indentation with melted chocolate instead of jam.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with a reliable gluten-free baking blend.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months—place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
These cookies do not require reheating; serve at room temperature for best texture.

FAQs

Why did my cookies crack?

Slight cracking is normal, but excessive cracking can occur if the dough is too dry—ensure correct flour measurement.

Can I use cold butter?

No, the butter must be softened to create a smooth, cohesive dough.

How do I keep the jam from overflowing?

Do not overfill the indentation and ensure the heart cavity is deep enough.

Can I use homemade jam?

Yes, homemade jam works beautifully, especially if it is thick and not overly runny.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for 15–20 minutes before baking helps maintain shape.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours before shaping.

Can I freeze unbaked cookies?

Yes, freeze shaped cookies without jam; add jam right before baking.

What jam flavor works best?

Strawberry and raspberry are popular for both color and taste.

Can I make these cookies without eggs?

A small amount of milk can replace the egg yolk, though texture may change slightly.

How do I get a clean heart shape?

Use a small heart cutter or mold; otherwise, shape gently with a small spoon and toothpick.

Conclusion

Heart Jam Cookies are an enchanting and delicious treat that combines simplicity with elegance. Their rich, buttery base and sweet jam filling create a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether shared at holidays, celebrations, or simply enjoyed with an afternoon cup of tea, these cookies bring charm, flavor, and a touch of sentiment to any table.

Heart Jam Cookies

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Buttery, tender shortbread-style cookies cut into heart shapes and filled with sweet fruit jam, perfect for holidays or gifting.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Yield: 20–24 cookies 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup strawberry or raspberry jam
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients to form a soft dough.
Divide dough in half, wrap in plastic, and chill for 20–30 minutes.
Roll dough to about 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface.
Cut out heart-shaped cookies. Cut a smaller heart from the center of half of the cookies (these will be the tops).
Place cookies on the baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cool completely. Dust the cut-out tops with powdered sugar if desired.
Spoon a small amount of jam onto each bottom cookie and gently press a top cookie over it to sandwich.