Joan'S Jam Sandwich Cookies
Joan's Jam Sandwich Cookies are delightful treats with buttery shortbread layers filled with sweet strawberry jam, perfect for dessert lovers and cookie enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend shortening, sugar, egg, and almond flavoring until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the shortening mixture until a dough forms.
- Divide the dough in half. Press one half into an 8-inch square pan.
- Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the dough in the pan.
- Place the remaining dough between two sheets of waxed paper and pat it into an 8-inch square.
- Flip the dough onto the jam layer and peel off the waxed paper.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before slicing into squares and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of Crisco, though it may alter the texture slightly. You can also substitute almond flavoring with vanilla extract for a different taste. To prevent sticking, ensure the wax paper is adequately floured. If the dough is too soft, chill it briefly before rolling. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover strawberry jam or even trying different flavors like raspberry.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the cookies into squares for a delightful treat at tea time or as a sweet snack. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a great addition to brunch spreads. For a special touch, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with fresh fruit. These cookies also make an excellent addition to holiday cookie platters.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Joan'S Jam Sandwich Cookies contains roughly 70 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1153mg per serving (50% 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 a different type of jam?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to substitute the strawberry jam with any other flavor you prefer, such as raspberry or apricot. Just ensure the consistency of the jam is similar to strawberry to maintain the texture of the cookies.
What can I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels too crumbly, try adding a teaspoon of milk or water, one at a time, until it comes together. Alternatively, ensure your ingredients are well combined during the mixing process, as this can affect the dough's consistency.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make these cookies more festive, consider adding a sprinkle of colored sugar on top before baking or drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled squares. You could also incorporate seasonal spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor during the holidays.
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).