Tender cookies with nuts and jam

Tender Cookies with Walnut and Jam - An Unforgettable Delicacy

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I will teach you how to make some tender cookies with walnut and jam, a recipe that combines the rich flavor of walnuts with the sweetness of jam, giving you an irresistible dessert. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Get ready for an exciting culinary adventure!

The History of Tender Cookies

Cookies, as a form of dessert, have a rich history, being prepared since ancient times in various cultures. These delicacies have evolved over the centuries, contributing to making every meal more festive. Tender cookies with walnut and jam are a classic choice, often associated with moments of joy and celebration.

Preparation Time and Servings

- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: 45-50 minutes
- Number of servings: 30 cookies

Necessary Ingredients

- 100 g lard
- 150 g margarine
- 100 g sugar
- 2 eggs
- 160 g ground walnuts
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon rum essence
- 550-600 g flour
- 1 tablespoon grated orange peel
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)
- Plum jam (or any preferred jam)

Step by Step for Tender Cookies with Walnut and Jam

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature. This step is essential for achieving a uniform and easy-to-work dough. Take the lard, margarine, and eggs out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start preparing.

2. Mixing Butter with Sugar
In a large bowl, combine the lard and margarine. Use a mixer on medium speed to mix until they become a fluffy cream. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until the sugar crystals completely dissolve, and the mixture becomes homogeneous.

3. Incorporating the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next one.

4. Adding the Light Ingredients
Next, incorporate the ground walnuts, baking powder, rum essence, and grated orange peel. These ingredients will add flavor and texture to your cookies.

5. Integrating the Flour
Gradually add the flour, mixing with a spatula or your hands until you obtain a soft dough that is easy to shape. Don't be alarmed by the dough's consistency; it should be slightly sticky but very manageable.

6. Shaping the Cookies
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Prepare a baking tray that you can grease with margarine and optionally line with parchment paper. Tear off small pieces of dough and form balls slightly larger than a walnut. Make a dent in the center of each ball and fill it with your favorite jam.

7. Baking
Place the cookies on the prepared tray, leaving a little space between them. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they become slightly golden at the edges. Be careful not to overbake them, as we want them to remain tender.

8. Cooling and Decorating
After removing them from the oven, let the cookies cool on a cooling rack. Once they are completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar for a sweet and attractive appearance.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These cookies are delicious on their own, but you can serve them alongside a cup of aromatic coffee or tea. They are also excellent as part of a varied dessert platter, perfect for holidays or special occasions. If you want to experiment, you can replace the plum jam with raspberry or strawberry jam for a different fruity flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

These cookies, while a treat, also have nutritional benefits. Walnuts are rich in healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet. Additionally, the jam adds vitamins and minerals, depending on the fruits used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of fat?
Yes, you can replace the margarine and lard with butter, but the result will be slightly different in terms of texture.

2. What other jam can I use?
Besides plum jam, you can experiment with apricot jam, blackberry jelly, or even chocolate spread.

3. How can I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for 5-7 days.

4. Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, the cookies can be frozen. Place them in an airtight container, and you can keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature.

Conclusion

These tender cookies with walnut and jam are not only easy to make but also a true delight for the taste buds. With each bite, you will feel the warmth and love invested in this traditional recipe, which can quickly become a family favorite. So, put on your apron and let’s turn simple ingredients into culinary magic! Bon appétit!