Cookies with nuts and jam

Delicious Nut and Jam Cookie Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes
Number of servings: 20-24 cookies

In a world where time is often a limited resource, quick and simple desserts become true gems in the art of cooking. These nut and jam cookies are exactly what you need: few ingredients, a perfect taste, and a texture that will win you over from the very first bite. Whether you're preparing them for a party, a gathering with friends, or simply to indulge yourself, these cookies will quickly become your favorites.

Ingredients:
- 100 g butter at room temperature
- 50 g sugar
- 1 large egg, separated (you will use the yolk and the white)
- 1 vial of vanilla essence
- 1 cup (approximately 125 g) of flour
- A pinch of salt
- 1 cup of roasted and finely chopped nuts (or a mix of nuts, hazelnuts, or peanuts for a diversified taste)
- ½ cup of jam (preferably apricot or raspberry, but any jam you like will work)

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This step is essential for obtaining a homogeneous and easy-to-work dough. Soft butter will combine better with sugar, resulting in a fluffy dough.

2. Beat the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer or a spatula to beat the butter with the sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and fluffy. This process takes about 3-5 minutes.

3. Add the yolk and vanilla: Incorporate the egg yolk and vanilla essence into the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well until everything is completely combined. The vanilla will give an irresistible aroma to your cookies.

4. Incorporate the flour and salt: Sift the flour and salt over the butter mixture and gently mix with a spatula or wooden spoon. If the dough becomes too soft and sticky, don’t hesitate to cover it and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to shape.

5. Shape the balls: Take a portion of dough and shape it into balls about 2-3 cm in diameter. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them to allow for expansion during baking.

6. Prepare the egg white and nuts: Lightly beat the egg white with a fork. In a separate bowl, place the chopped nuts. Dip each ball in the egg white, then roll it in the nuts to get a crunchy layer.

7. Make indentations: Using your finger or a teaspoon, create a small indentation in the center of each ball, where you will add the jam.

8. Fill the balls with jam: Put a small amount of jam in each indentation. Don’t overdo it, as the jam will spread a little during baking.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes or until they turn slightly golden. Be careful not to leave them too long, as they will become dry.

10. Cooling and serving: Let the cookies cool on a cooling rack, then you can enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee. These cookies can be stored well in an airtight container for a few days, although they will surely disappear quickly!

Helpful tips:
- Nut variations: You can experiment with different types of nuts, such as hazelnuts or roasted peanuts, to add a personal touch to your cookies. Also, adding chopped chocolate to the dough can turn the recipe into an even more tempting treat.
- The jam: Choose a jam with a strong flavor that complements the taste of the nuts. Apricot and raspberry jams are excellent choices, but feel free to use any type you prefer.
- Frequently asked questions:
- *Can I use margarine instead of butter?* Yes, but keep in mind that the texture and taste will change.
- *How can I make the cookies healthier?* You can replace some of the flour with whole wheat flour or reduce the amount of sugar.
- *What drinks pair best?* These cookies are delicious alongside black tea or fresh lemonade, but they also go well with flavored coffee.

Nutritional benefits: These cookies contain nuts, which are full of healthy fats, proteins, and fiber, making them a more nutritious option compared to other desserts. Additionally, the jam adds a note of vitamins and antioxidants.

We hope this recipe inspires you to experiment in the kitchen and enjoy the delights you can create. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner, nut and jam cookies are a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy!