Jammie Dodgers

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of jam with the buttery crunch of cookies, look no further than Jammie Dodgers. This classic British biscuit features a sweet fruit filling sandwiched between two crumbly, buttery cookies, making it the perfect snack for tea time or an afternoon pick-me-up. With their charming appearance and irresistible flavor, Jammie Dodgers are sure to win over the hearts of both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into making these scrumptious delights!

Top Reasons to Make Jammie Dodgers

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery cookies and sweet jam creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Customizable: You can use your favorite jam or even experiment with different flavors!
• Fun to Make: Rolling out the dough and cutting out shapes makes this a fun baking project for all ages.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are great for parties, picnics, or just a cozy afternoon with friends.
• Simple Ingredients: With basic pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in no time.

What We’re Using

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: This is the foundation for our cookies, providing rich flavor and tenderness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and contributes to the cookies’ lovely texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 large egg, room temperature: Acts as a binder, helping to hold the cookies together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, inviting aroma to the cookies.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional): Enhances the flavor profile with a nutty note.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the structure of our cookies. Make sure to measure accurately!
• Strawberry jam: The star filling! Choose your favorite flavor for a personal twist.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Mixing bowls: For combining the ingredients smoothly.
• Whisk or electric mixer: Helps in creaming the butter and sugar effortlessly.
• Baking sheets: Where our cookies will be baked to golden perfection.
• Parchment paper: To line the baking sheets for easy cleanup.
• Rolling pin: For rolling out the cookie dough evenly.
• Cookie cutters: To shape our cookies into fun designs.
• Cooling rack: To let the cookies cool properly after baking.

Jammie Dodgers: How It’s Done

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes if you’re using an electric mixer. The key here is to incorporate air into the mixture, ensuring your cookies will be soft and tender.

Step 2: Add Egg and Extracts

Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add in the large egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Beat the mixture until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough is chilled, remove it from the fridge. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, making sure to cut out an equal number of tops and bottoms. Remember to cut a small hole in the center of half of the shapes for the jam to peek through!

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake them in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overbaking.

Step 8: Cool and Assemble

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once completely cooled, spread a layer of your favorite jam on the bottom cookie, and top it with the cookie that has the hole cut out. Press gently to adhere.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

• Butter: Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Granulated sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar or brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• All-purpose flour: Swap with gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free option.
• Jam: Feel free to use a sugar-free jam or a homemade fruit compote for a healthier twist.

Author’s Commentary

Jammie Dodgers hold a special place in my heart. They remind me of my childhood, savoring these delightful biscuits during tea time with my family. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can play around with different jams, from raspberry to apricot, and customize the cookie shapes to suit any occasion. Plus, making these cookies from scratch not only fills your home with delicious aromas but also brings a sense of accomplishment. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do!

Storing Tips & Timelines

To keep your Jammie Dodgers fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to prepare them in advance, the cookie dough can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling it out and baking. As for the assembled cookies, they are best enjoyed within a few days, but they still taste delightful even after a week!

Jammie Dodgers Q&A

Can I use other types of jam besides strawberry?

Absolutely! Jammie Dodgers are versatile, and you can use any jam you love, such as raspberry, apricot, or even lemon curd!

Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough helps to firm it up, preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking, which ensures they maintain their shape and texture.

Can I make these cookies without almond extract?

Yes! The almond extract is optional. If you prefer, you can simply omit it or replace it with an extra splash of vanilla extract.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges. They might look slightly underbaked in the center, but they will continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet.

In Closing

Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just to enjoy with a cup of tea, Jammie Dodgers are a delightful treat that never disappoints. Their buttery texture and fruity filling make them a standout in any cookie lineup. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create some delicious memories with Jammie Dodgers! Happy baking!