Gem Jams
Gem Jams are delightful oatmeal cookies filled with a sweet jam, offering a perfect balance of crunch and gooeyness, ideal for cookie lovers and sweet snack enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and brown sugar together.
- Add the egg and continue to cream the mixture.
- Mix in sour cream, vanilla, salt, oatmeal, flour, and baking soda until well combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet, place a small spoonful of jam filling in the center, then top with another small dab of dough to cover the filling.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
- Allow cookies to cool on the tray for 10 minutes before transferring.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half butter and half shortening. If you're out of sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. To prevent the cookies from spreading too much, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. Adding nuts or chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and provide a nice crunch. These cookies pair beautifully with Icy Orange Salad for a refreshing complement.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful cookies warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. They are perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet treat during gatherings. Consider pairing them with a cup of tea or coffee. For a more robust meal, serve with a side of Late Supper Salad to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Gem Jams in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer, they can also be refrigerated for longer freshness. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to regain their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gem Jams contains roughly 125 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for white flour in this recipe. However, it may result in a denser cookie. To maintain a softer texture, consider using half whole wheat and half white flour, which will add nutritional value while still keeping the cookies light.
What type of jam works best for the filling?
You can use any type of jam you prefer! Raspberry, strawberry, or apricot jam are popular choices that add a nice tartness. For a unique twist, try using a mixed berry jam or even lemon curd. The key is to choose a jam that complements the sweetness of the cookie without overpowering it.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make these cookies more festive, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. You can also decorate the tops with colored sprinkles or drizzle melted chocolate over them after baking. These small touches can make them perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).