Cookies with walnuts and plum jam - vegan

Walnut and Plum Jam Cookies - Vegan Delights

Introduction

Welcome to the world of vegan delights! Today, we’re treating ourselves to a recipe for walnut cookies filled with plum jam, a combination that perfectly blends the crunchy texture of the cookies with the sweet, fruity flavor of the jam. These cookies are not only delicious but also very easy to make, suitable for any occasion, from a quick snack to a festive meal. So, let’s get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 30-32 minutes
Servings: 20-25 cookies

Ingredients

- 200 g flour
- 50 g ground walnuts
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- 50 g oil (sunflower or canola oil is ideal)
- 80 ml water or soy milk (for a vegan option)
- 80 g granulated sugar
- 1/2 vial vanilla extract (an ingredient that adds a warm note)
- A pinch of salt
- Plum jam (or your favorite jam, such as apricot or raspberry)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for decoration)

Ingredient Details

Flour is the base of the dough and provides the necessary structure for the cookies. Ground walnuts not only enrich the flavor but also add a pleasant texture. The oil ensures a soft and manageable dough, while the sugar contributes to the final sweetness. The plum jam offers a tart note, perfect for balancing the sweetness of the cookies.

Preparation

1. Making the dough
In a large bowl, add the flour, ground walnuts, baking powder, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients well with a spatula or whisk to combine evenly.

2. Adding the wet ingredients
Now, add the oil and water or soy milk. You can also use sparkling water for an extra lift in the dough. Add the vanilla extract and mix everything with a spatula or your hands until the dough becomes smooth and no longer sticks to your hands. If the dough seems too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

3. Rolling out the dough
On a floured work surface, roll out the dough to about 5 mm thickness. This step is essential for achieving tender and delicious cookies.

4. Cutting out shapes
Use cookie cutters to cut out the cookies. You can make simple cookies or cut out shapes with hollow centers to fill with jam. A fun idea is to create filled hearts and hearts with cutouts, giving a playful appearance.

5. Preparing for baking
Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place the cut-out cookies on the tray, leaving a little space between them. This is important to allow the cookies to bake evenly.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat). Place the tray in the oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn slightly golden. Keep a close eye on them, as every oven bakes differently!

7. Cooling and filling
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a cooling rack. After they have completely cooled, fill the cookies with your favorite jam. If you chose the cut-out shapes, you’ll be able to see the jam shining through, which adds an attractive touch!

8. Decorating
For an elegant finish, dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving. This step is not only decorative but also delicious, providing a contrast of textures.

Helpful Tips

- Jam variations: If you’re not a fan of plum jam, try apricot or raspberry jam. Each variation will give the cookies a distinct flavor.
- Storing the cookies: These cookies store well in airtight containers. I recommend consuming them within the first few days, as they are best when freshly baked.
- Dough tip: If you want to add more flavor, you can incorporate a little cinnamon or grated lemon zest into the dough.

Nutritional Benefits

These walnut and plum jam cookies are a delicious dessert option, as well as a snack that provides essential nutrients. Walnuts bring healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, while plum jam is a good source of fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Depending on the jam you choose, you can also add extra vitamins and minerals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Absolutely! Pecan nuts, almonds, or hazelnuts are excellent alternatives.

2. How can I make the cookies less sweet?
Reducing the amount of sugar or choosing a less sweet jam can help.

3. Can the cookies be frozen?
Yes, these cookies freeze very well. Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in freezer bags.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are perfect alongside a cup of fragrant tea or coffee. They can also be a wonderful dessert for a family meal or a gathering with friends. A creative idea would be to serve them with vanilla ice cream for a contrast of temperatures and textures.

In conclusion, walnut and plum jam cookies are not only a simple recipe but also an opportunity to express your creativity in the kitchen. Experiment with different shapes, jams, and ingredient combinations to create your own unique versions. Don’t forget to enjoy the cooking process and, most importantly, the taste of these wonderful cookies!