Step into the world of timeless flavors and cherished memories with Granny’s Strawberry Preserves-Filled Cookies. This recipe is a testament to the warmth of family traditions and the sweet joy that homemade treats bring. As you embark on this baking adventure, you’ll craft cookies that encapsulate the essence of love, comfort, and the irresistible taste of strawberry preserves. Join us on a journey through Granny’s kitchen, where every bite is a step back in time.
Ingredients
Refrigerated
- 2 Eggs
Condiments
- 6 tbsp Strawberry preserves
Baking & Spices
- 3 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1 tsp Baking soda
- 1 cup Brown sugar
- 1 tsp Nutmeg, ground
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 cup Shortening
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 cup White sugar
Oils & Vinegars
- 1 tsp Vinegar
Dairy
- 1/4 cup Milk
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This step ensures that the cookies bake evenly without sticking.
Step 2: Sift and Combine
In a bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground nutmeg, and salt. This process ensures a uniform distribution of dry ingredients.
Step 3: Creaming the Classics
In a separate large bowl, cream together the shortening, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a softer texture.
Step 4: Vanilla Elegance
Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and vinegar to the creamed mixture. Beat until well combined. The addition of vinegar enhances the cookie’s tenderness.
Step 5: Dry Integration
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until a soft dough forms. Be cautious not to overmix, as it may lead to tough cookies.
Step 6: Cookie Assembly
Take a tablespoon of dough and form it into a ball. Create a small well in the center of each ball using your thumb or the back of a spoon.
Step 7: Preserves Placement
Drop approximately half a teaspoon of strawberry preserves into the well of each cookie. Be careful not to overfill to prevent the preserves from leaking during baking.
Step 8: Seal and Shape
Gently seal the well by pinching the edges of the cookie dough together. Reshape the cookie into a smooth ball, ensuring the preserves are concealed within.
Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the filled cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Keep a close eye to prevent over-baking.
Cook Notes
- Preserves Placement: Ensure that the strawberry preserves are placed in the center of the well to prevent leakage during baking.
- Consistent Size: Keep the cookie sizes uniform for even baking. Using a cookie scoop or measuring spoon can help achieve consistent portions.
- Cooling Calm: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from breaking due to excessive heat.
Variations
Citrus Zest Twist
Add a burst of citrusy freshness by incorporating finely grated orange or lemon zest into the cookie dough. This variation complements the sweetness of the strawberry preserves.
Almond Bliss
Mix in a cup of finely chopped almonds into the dough for a nutty crunch. The almond flavor pairs beautifully with the fruity notes of the preserves.
Keto Versions
Almond Flour Alchemy
Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a keto-friendly adaptation. Almond flour imparts a nutty flavor while keeping the cookies low-carb.
Monk Fruit Magic
Substitute brown and white sugar with monk fruit sweetener to maintain sweetness without the added carbs. Adjust the quantity based on your desired level of sweetness.
Low-Carb Versions
Coconut Flour Creation
Use coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour for a low-carb alternative. Coconut flour adds a subtle coconut flavor while reducing the carb content.
Stevia Sweetening
Opt for a low-carb sweetener like stevia in place of sugar. This modification allows you to enjoy the cookies with minimal impact on carbohydrate intake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use other fruit preserves?
Absolutely. Feel free to experiment with your favorite fruit preserves such as raspberry, apricot, or blueberry for a personalized touch.
2. Why add vinegar to the cookie dough?
Vinegar acts as a tenderizer, contributing to the overall softness and tenderness of the cookies. It enhances the baking process, resulting in a delightful texture.
3. How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, refrigerate or freeze them.
4. Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Certainly. Prepare the cookie dough, shape it into balls, and freeze them. When ready to bake, simply thaw the dough balls and proceed with the filling and baking steps.
5. Can I use margarine instead of shortening?
While margarine can be used, shortening contributes to a more tender texture. If substituting, choose a margarine with a high-fat content for better results.
As you bite into Granny’s Strawberry Preserves-Filled Cookies, you’re not just savoring a sweet treat; you’re tasting a piece of familial love and cherished traditions. Whether you follow the classic recipe, explore creative variations, or opt for keto and low-carb adaptations, each cookie embodies the essence of homemade goodness. Share these delightful treats with loved ones, and let the sweetness of strawberry preserves create moments of joy and nostalgia. Granny’s Strawberry Preserves-Filled Cookies – where tradition meets innovation in a symphony of flavors.
