Jam Heart Cookies are the sweetest way to celebrate Valentine's Day. These buttery thumbprint cookies feature a delicate heart-shaped indentation filled with vibrant raspberry jam. The rich shortbread base melts in your mouth, while the jam adds just the right touch of sweetness and tartness.
Not only are Jam Heart Cookies beautiful, but they are also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and your favorite jam, you can create a festive dessert that looks bakery-worthy yet feels homemade and heartfelt.
The first time I baked Jam Heart Cookies for Valentine's Day, I wanted something simple but special. I shaped the heart centers carefully and spooned in glossy raspberry jam. When they came out of the oven, the edges were lightly golden and the centers glistened. They disappeared quickly, and ever since, this recipe has been my go-to whenever I want a cookie that feels both classic and celebratory.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg yolks, almond extract, and salt. Mix until combined.
- Add flour and mix just until combined without overmixing.
- Roll tablespoon portions into balls and roll in granulated sugar. Place 1 1/2 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Press two small indentations to form a heart shape in each dough ball. Fill each center with about 1/2 teaspoon jam.
- Chill cookies while oven preheats to 350°F. Bake 10-12 minutes until edges are set.
- Cool on baking sheet 5 minutes before transferring to wire rack.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You'll Love Jam Heart Cookies
Simple Pantry Ingredients
Jam Heart Cookies require only basic baking ingredients:
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Egg yolks
- Almond extract (or vanilla)
- Salt
- All-purpose flour
- Raspberry jam
Because the ingredient list is short, each component plays an important role. Butter creates richness. Egg yolks add tenderness. Flour provides structure. Jam delivers flavor and color.
Perfect for Valentine's Day
The heart-shaped thumbprint makes these cookies ideal for Valentine's Day. However, you can easily switch the jam flavor or shape to suit other holidays.
They're perfect for:
- Dessert platters
- Gift boxes
- School parties
- Romantic dinners
- Afternoon tea
The Secret to Perfect Shortbread Texture
Use Room Temperature Butter
Softened butter creams more easily with sugar. As a result, the dough becomes smooth and evenly mixed.
Beat the butter and sugar together for about two minutes until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, which improves the final texture.
Measure Flour Correctly
Too much flour makes Jam Heart Cookies dry and crumbly. For best results, weigh your flour with a kitchen scale.
If you do not have a scale, spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it with a knife. Do not scoop directly from the bag.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Jam Heart Cookies
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add egg yolks, almond extract, and salt. Mix until combined.
Gradually add flour and mix just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
Scoop one tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball.
Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar for a subtle sparkle and extra sweetness.
Place them 1½ inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Create the Heart Thumbprint
Using your thumb or the back of a small measuring spoon, gently press two small indentations to form a heart shape in the center.
Fill each indentation with about ½ teaspoon of raspberry jam.
Step 4: Chill and Bake
Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator while the oven preheats to 350°F. Chilling prevents excessive spreading.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but not browned.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Flavor Variations and Customizations
Try Different Jam Flavors
Although raspberry jam pairs beautifully with almond extract, you can easily customize Jam Heart Cookies with:
- Strawberry jam
- Apricot preserves
- Blackberry jam
- Lemon curd
For best results, choose smooth jams without large fruit chunks to prevent bubbling.
Add a Sweet Glaze
For extra sweetness and visual appeal, drizzle a simple glaze over cooled cookies.
Whisk together:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 teaspoons milk
Drizzle lightly and let set before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
Jam Heart Cookies are ideal for preparing in advance.
Make Ahead
- Store dough in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours before shaping.
- Let chilled dough soften slightly before rolling.
Storage
- Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing
- Freeze unbaked dough for up to 3 months.
- Freeze baked cookies in stacks wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container.
Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQ
Why did my cookies crack?
Cracking usually means the dough is too cold or contains too much flour. Let dough soften slightly before shaping.
Can I use vanilla instead of almond extract?
Yes. Vanilla works beautifully if you prefer a classic flavor.
Can I freeze Jam Heart Cookies after baking?
Yes. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
How many cookies does this recipe make?
Approximately 36 cookies.
Do I have to chill the dough before baking?
Chilling helps prevent spreading and keeps the heart shape intact.
Conclusion
Jam Heart Cookies combine buttery shortbread with sweet raspberry jam in a festive heart shape. They look impressive, yet they come together quickly with simple ingredients. Whether you're baking for Valentine's Day or simply sharing something sweet with loved ones, this recipe delivers every time.
Soft, tender, and beautifully filled, Jam Heart Cookies are guaranteed to become a favorite in your cookie collection.
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