Description
Jam-Filled Snowball Cookies
Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies with a sparkling sugar coating and fruity jam center!
Ingredients:
200g butter
90g powdered sugar
300g flour
1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
150g apricot jam
Powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions:
Whip butter and sugar together. Stir in lemon zest for extra flavor.
Add flour gradually to form dough. Chill for 30 minutes.
Create dough balls, add a tsp of jam, and seal securely.
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 12-15 minutes. Cool down completely.
Coat cookies in powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect cookies every time. First, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming. Using a stand mixer or hand beaters, whip the butter and powdered sugar together for 3-4 minutes until very light and fluffy. This incorporates air, creating a tender texture. Mix in the lemon zest if using. Gradually add the flour on low speed until just combined; overmixing will make the dough tough. Wrap the dough in plastic and chill for exactly 30 minutes—this firms the butter for easier handling.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop dough into tablespoon-sized portions, rolling into smooth balls. Use your thumb to make a deep indentation in each ball. Fill the hole with about 1 teaspoon of apricot jam, taking care not to overfill. Carefully pinch the dough over the jam to seal it completely; any leaks will cause burning. Place sealed balls seam-side down on the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the bottoms are just lightly golden. The tops should not brown. Let cookies cool on the sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
These elegant cookies are versatile. Serve them on a festive platter for holiday gatherings alongside coffee or tea. For a special dessert, plate two cookies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. They also pair beautifully with a glass of dessert wine or a hot chocolate. Package them in decorative boxes or tins for a heartfelt homemade gift.
How-to Summary
In brief: Cream butter and sugar, mix in zest and flour, then chill dough. Form balls, indent, fill with jam, and seal tightly. Bake at 180°C until set but not brown. Cool completely, then roll in powdered sugar for the signature “snowball” finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of jam?
Absolutely! Raspberry, strawberry, or even a tart cherry jam work wonderfully. Avoid overly runny jams; thicker preserves or lekvar are best to prevent leakage.
Why did my cookies spread or the jam leak?
This is usually due to dough that was too warm during shaping or an incomplete seal. Ensure the dough is properly chilled and pinch the opening securely closed.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. The dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before portioning if it becomes too hard.
How should I store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Do not refrigerate, as it can make them hard.
Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yes, freeze them without the final powdered sugar coating in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and then dust with sugar before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using melted or overly soft butter, which causes spreading.
- Skipping the chilling step, leading to difficult handling and misshapen cookies.
- Overfilling the jam cavity, guaranteeing a messy leak during baking.
- Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm, which causes the sugar to melt and become gummy.
- Overbaking; the cookies should remain pale on top for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Conclusion
These Jam-Filled Snowball Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic, combining a buttery, tender crumb with a sweet, fruity surprise. Mastering the simple techniques of proper sealing and patient cooling is the key to their stunning appearance. They are sure to impress at any gathering and become a cherished recipe in your collection. We hope you enjoy baking and sharing these sparkling treats!
