There is something utterly charming and comforting about the Almond Heart Sandwich Cookies with Jam Filling Recipe. These delicate cookies combine a tender almond-scented dough with a luscious layer of raspberry or strawberry jam, creating a perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and fruity flavors. Their heart-shaped design makes them an ideal treat for sharing with loved ones or celebrating special moments, while the soft powdered sugar dusting adds a touch of elegance and nostalgia to every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
As simple as these ingredients are, each one plays a crucial role in bringing together the texture, flavor, and visual appeal of these delightful cookies. You’ll appreciate how the almond flour adds a subtle nuttiness and moistness, while the jam brings that punch of fruity sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides rich moisture and tenderness to the cookie dough, making each bite melt in your mouth.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and helps create that lovely golden crust during baking.
- Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): Gives an unmistakable almond aroma and flavor that defines these cookies.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and intensifies the overall flavor.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The backbone of the dough providing structure.
- Almond flour (1/2 cup): Adds nutty depth and a tender crumb texture to the cookie.
- Raspberry or strawberry jam (1/4 cup): The luscious filling that adds a burst of fruity sweetness and color.
- Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): For dusting, giving a delicate finish and an inviting look.
How to Make Almond Heart Sandwich Cookies with Jam Filling Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cream the Base
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy cleanup. In a large bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. This creaming step is key to achieving tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies.
Step 2: Add Flavor and Flour
Next, stir in the almond extract and salt; these two ingredients elevate the flavor, giving the cookies their signature almond essence while balancing sweetness. Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and almond flour until the dough comes together softly. Be careful not to overmix, or you might develop a tougher cookie.
Step 3: Roll and Cut Out the Cookies
Divide the dough in half and work with one portion at a time. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion out to about 1/4-inch thickness. Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out as many heart shapes as possible. Then, on half of these hearts, use a smaller heart cutter to create a window in the center—these will become the cookie tops that showcase the jam filling.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the solid and cutout heart cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one. Bake in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges just start to turn a light golden color. Removing them at this stage helps maintain their delicate texture. Allow the cookies to cool completely on wire racks to prevent any breaking or crumbling.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies
Once the cookies are fully cooled, spread a thin layer of your chosen raspberry or strawberry jam on the solid bottom hearts. Gently place the corresponding cutout tops over the jam, pressing lightly to create a charming sandwich cookie. Finally, dust the assembled cookies generously with powdered sugar for that classic, inviting finish.
How to Serve Almond Heart Sandwich Cookies with Jam Filling Recipe
Garnishes
While powdered sugar is a classic choice, you can also sprinkle finely chopped toasted almonds on top for added crunch and visual appeal. A light drizzle of melted white chocolate can turn them into little works of art that will dazzle your guests.
Side Dishes
These almond heart sandwiches pair beautifully with a cup of afternoon tea, coffee, or even a glass of chilled milk. For a special occasion, serve alongside fresh berries or a small bowl of whipped cream to complement the fruity jam inside.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging these cookies in a decorative tin or a glass jar tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift. For a festive touch at parties, place them on a tiered cookie stand, or build a charming cookie bouquet by attaching sticks to their backs and arranging them in a vase.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers from this lovely batch, store your Almond Heart Sandwich Cookies with Jam Filling Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to five days, making them wonderful to enjoy over the week.
Freezing
To freeze, place the sandwich cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. When properly wrapped, they’ll keep well for up to two months.
Reheating
Because these cookies are best enjoyed fresh and tender, reheating isn’t typically necessary. However, if you’d like to revive their aroma and warmth, briefly warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the cookies soggy or too soft.
FAQs
Can I use other types of jam for the filling?
Absolutely! While raspberry and strawberry jam are classic choices, you can experiment with apricot, cherry, or even blueberry jam depending on your tastes. Just choose a jam that complements the almond flavor nicely.
What if I don’t have almond flour? Can I substitute it?
Almond flour is key to the unique texture and flavor of these cookies. If you can’t find it, finely ground almonds might work, but the texture could be a bit different. Avoid substituting with all-purpose flour to maintain the cookie’s softness and nutty taste.
How do I ensure the jam doesn’t make the cookies soggy?
Spread only a thin layer of jam on the cookie bottoms and avoid using overly runny jam. Also, assemble the cookies close to when you plan to serve them for the best texture.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but keep the almond flour as is. Be aware that the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
Are these cookies suitable for special occasions?
The heart shape and sweet almond flavor make these sandwiches perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any celebration where you want to share a homemade touch of love.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that combines simplicity with elegance, the Almond Heart Sandwich Cookies with Jam Filling Recipe is a must-try. Every bite feels like a cozy embrace of almond goodness and sweet fruitiness, perfect for sharing with friends and family. I can’t wait for you to make these at home and watch them disappear one by one with smiles all around!
Print
Almond Heart Sandwich Cookies with Jam Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 20 sandwich cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Almond Heart Cookies are delightful European-inspired sandwich cookies made with a blend of all-purpose and almond flours, filled with sweet raspberry or strawberry jam and dusted with powdered sugar. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
Filling and Topping
- 1/4 cup raspberry or strawberry jam (for filling)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the dough.
- Add flavorings and salt: Mix in the almond extract and salt thoroughly to incorporate balanced flavor throughout the dough.
- Add flours gradually: Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and almond flour into the mixture, stirring gently until a soft, cohesive dough forms without overmixing.
- Roll out dough: Divide the dough in half and roll each portion on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch, preparing it for cookie cutting.
- Cut cookies: Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies from the dough. From half of these, cut out a smaller heart in the center to create tops for the sandwich cookies.
- Arrange and bake: Place all the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake them for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are just lightly golden to achieve a tender texture.
- Cool cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, which is essential before assembling the sandwiches.
- Assemble sandwiches: Spread a small amount of jam on the bottom halves of the cookies. Then, place the top halves with the cutout centers over the jam to create beautiful sandwich cookies.
- Dust with powdered sugar: Finish by dusting the tops of the assembled cookies with powdered sugar for an elegant and sweet presentation.
Notes
- You can use any flavor of jam you prefer, such as raspberry, strawberry, or apricot, to customize the taste.
- For crisper cookies, extend baking time by 1 to 2 minutes, but watch carefully to avoid overbaking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
