Irresistible Heart Jam Cookies : A Romantic Baking Favorite

Looking for the ultimate way to show love through baking? These Heart Jam Cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a heartfelt gesture. Buttery, tender, and filled with jewel-toned raspberry jam, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re preparing for Valentine’s Day, planning a romantic dessert board, or baking a thoughtful gift, this easy recipe will impress every time.

These cookies are especially great for fans of holiday baking, Pinterest-worthy desserts, or anyone who simply loves a homemade cookie with a fruity center. Plus, if you love cozy and charming bakes like our Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls or Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies, these will be right up your alley.

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The History Behind Heart Jam Cookies

Jam-filled cookies have a rich European heritage, most notably seen in Linzer cookies from Austria. Traditionally made with ground nuts and layered with jam, they’ve evolved into delightful seasonal cookies around the globe. Over time, heart-shaped variations filled with raspberry or strawberry jam became symbols of love and warmth, making them popular for holidays and special occasions.

Today, they’re a Pinterest favorite among romantic dessert ideas and make adorable additions to cookie gift boxes or Valentine’s platters.

Ingredients for Heart Jam Cookies

To make these perfectly tender cookies, here’s everything you’ll need:

• 2 1/4 cups (281 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2/3 cup (133 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1/2 cup seedless raspberry jam (or your favorite jam)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Tip: You can also try using peach, apricot, or strawberry jam for a colorful variety—just like we do in our Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Bars.

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Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to make Heart Jam Cookies at home:

• Large mixing bowl
• Hand or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Large and small heart-shaped cookie cutters
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets
• Cooling rack
• Offset spatula or butter knife
• Fine mesh sieve (for dusting powdered sugar)

How to Make Heart Jam Cookies Step-by-Step

This process is beginner-friendly and fun, especially if you’re looking for a holiday baking project with kids or a homemade gift idea.

1. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Add Egg and Flavoring

Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Beat until combined.

4. Combine with Flour

Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until a dough forms.

5. Chill the Dough

Divide the dough in half. Flatten each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 1 hour. Chilled dough helps cookies retain their shape.

6. Roll and Cut

Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to about 1/8-inch thick. Use the large heart cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Use the smaller heart cutter to remove the centers from half of the cookies.

7. Bake

Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 9–11 minutes, until lightly golden. Cool on the pan for 2 minutes, then move to a wire rack.

8. Assemble Cookies

Dust the top cookies (with the center cutout) with powdered sugar. Spread a teaspoon of jam on the bottom cookies and gently sandwich the two halves together.

Helpful Hint: Love fruit-forward desserts? Try using leftover jam in this Fruit Dip recipe for a colorful party spread.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Heart-Shaped Cookies

• Always chill the dough for cleaner shapes.
• Use seedless jam to avoid clumps and get a smooth finish.
• For even baking, rotate your pan halfway through the bake time.
• Dust tops with powdered sugar before assembly for a neater appearance.
• Allow cookies to cool completely before sandwiching to prevent melting the jam.

Looking for more cookie inspiration? Try these Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles for a no-bake variation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the chill time – leads to spread and loss of shape.
2. Rolling the dough unevenly – causes inconsistent baking.
3. Overfilling with jam – creates a sticky mess.
4. Assembling cookies while warm – melts the jam.
5. Using jam with seeds – results in clumpy, less attractive centers.

Delicious Variations: Heart Shaped Chocolate Cookies and More

• Heart Shaped Chocolate Cookies: Add 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the flour mixture.
• Lemon Raspberry Hearts: Add lemon zest to the dough and use raspberry jam.
• Strawberry Nutella Hearts: Swap jam for a chocolate-hazelnut spread.
• Holiday-themed Shapes: Use stars, snowflakes, or tree shapes for a festive twist like our Pumpkin Twists.

Serving and Presentation Ideas for Heart Jam Cookies

• Gift box idea: Stack in clear cellophane bags with a ribbon.
• Brunch tray: Serve alongside these Mini Pancake Cereal bites.
• Themed dessert board: Add them to a Valentine’s or holiday spread.
• Elegant tea setting: Serve with Lavender Lemonade for a delicate touch.

How to Store Heart Jam Cookies for Freshness

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Freeze unassembled cookies for up to 2 months. Assemble after thawing.

Planning ahead? These cookies pair perfectly with Make-Ahead Breakfast Bowls for a thoughtful morning surprise.

Perfect Food Pairings for Heart Jam Cookies

Pair your cookies with these fun and family-friendly treats:

• Hot herbal teas
• Warm milk
• Fruit platters
• Light yogurt parfaits

You can also serve them with a slice of Pumpkin Bread with Chocolate Chips for a cozy afternoon break.

Romantic Dessert Ideas for Valentine’s Day and Beyond

These cookies are a perfect fit for a romantic dessert board, along with:

• Strawberry Cloud Cake
• Pumpkin Fluff Dip
• Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Pancakes

They also make thoughtful gifts, bridal shower treats, or a special surprise for your sweetheart.

Pinterest Baking Recipes Worth Trying After This One

Love pretty baked goods? Try these recipes next:

• Cauldron Cookies
• Apple Crisp with Oatmeal
• Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups
• Pumpkin Dump Cake
• Halloween Brownies

These Pinterest favorites are just as charming and crowd-pleasing as your Heart Jam Cookies.

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FAQs About Heart Jam Cookies

Can I make Heart Jam Cookies ahead of time?
Yes! Bake and freeze the cookie parts separately. Assemble with jam before serving.

What type of jam is best?
Seedless raspberry, strawberry, or apricot jam work best. Choose one that’s thick and smooth.

How do I make them gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I freeze them assembled?
You can, but it’s better to freeze the plain cookies and add jam after thawing for best texture.

Can I use other cookie cutter shapes?
Absolutely. Try stars, flowers, or round cutters for different seasons.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

These Heart Jam Cookies are a heartfelt way to bake love into every bite. Elegant enough for special occasions and easy enough for everyday joy, they’re a must-have in any baker’s recipe box. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying with family, they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite.

If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends, save it to Pinterest, and don’t forget to subscribe to Lyndy’s Kitchen for more sweet, seasonal recipes that bring smiles to your table.

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