Warm, chewy, and delightfully sweet – Oatmeal Jammys are a delightful treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. These cookies, filled with the heartwarming goodness of oats and a touch of fruity jam, are the perfect accompaniment to a cozy evening or an enjoyable snack any time of day. Let’s explore the simplicity and joy of making these delectable Oatmeal Jammys that’ll surely bring smiles to your table.
How to Make a Fruit Pizza:
While savoring the taste of homemade cookies, consider trying your hand at making a refreshing Fruit Pizza. Start with a sugar cookie or shortbread crust, spread a luscious cream cheese frosting, and top it with an array of fresh fruits such as strawberries, kiwi, blueberries, and mandarin oranges. This colorful and customizable dessert is perfect for brightening up any occasion.
History and Origins of the Recipe:
Oatmeal Jammys have a heartwarming history in American baking traditions. These cookies, combining the comforting taste of oats with the sweetness of jam, have often been passed down through generations. With roots in classic oatmeal cookies, the addition of jam has brought a delightful twist, making them a beloved treat for many.
Tools Needed, Number of People, Cooking Time:
- Tools: Baking sheet, parchment paper or silicone baking mat, large mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups and spoons
- Number of Servings: About 3 dozen cookies
- Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup jam (your choice of flavor)
Ingredient Substitutes:
- Unsalted Butter: Salted butter can be used, but consider reducing additional salt in the recipe.
- Granulated Sugar: Brown sugar or coconut sugar can be used for a different flavor.
- Light Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar can be substituted for a more robust taste.
- All-Purpose Flour: Whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends can be used, but it may alter the texture.
- Old-Fashioned Oats: Quick oats or rolled oats can be substituted, but the texture may vary.
Steps:
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Creaming Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Incorporating Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mixing Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until just combined.
- Adding Oats: Stir in the oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Forming Cookies: Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
- Filling with Jam: Fill each indentation with about 1 teaspoon of your preferred jam.
- Baking: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Main Mistakes and How to Avoid Them:
1. Overmixing the Dough:
To maintain the cookie’s texture, avoid overmixing the dough once the dry ingredients are added. Mix until just combined to prevent tough or dense cookies.
2. Incorrect Jam Application:
Ensure the jam is evenly distributed and doesn’t overflow to prevent excess spreading or burning during baking. Using the recommended amount prevents issues with the cookie’s texture.
3. Inadequate Spacing on Baking Sheet:
Allow sufficient space between cookies to prevent them from merging during baking. Proper spacing ensures they bake evenly and retain their individual shape.
4. Underbaking or Overbaking:
Watch the edges of the cookies for a light golden color to indicate they’re done. Overbaking may result in dry cookies, while underbaking may cause them to be too soft and doughy.
FAQ:
1. Can I use different flavors of jam?
Absolutely! Experiment with various flavors of jam to find your favorite combinations, whether it’s strawberry, raspberry, apricot, or any other fruit preserve.
2. Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Yes, the cookie dough can be formed into individual balls, frozen on a baking sheet, then transferred to a sealed container or freezer bag. When ready to bake, place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and adjust the baking time accordingly.
3. Can I omit the eggs for an eggless version?
For an eggless alternative, try using a combination of mashed banana, applesauce, or a commercial egg replacer. The texture and taste may vary slightly.
4. Can I use instant oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
While you can use instant oats, the texture of the cookies might differ. Instant oats are smaller and more processed, so they might yield a softer texture compared to the heartier texture of old-fashioned oats.
5. How long do the cookies stay fresh?
Properly stored in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh for up to a week. To maintain their freshness, consider adding a slice of bread to the container to absorb excess moisture.
Embark on a delightful baking journey with Oatmeal Jammys, and savor the joy of these heartwarming cookies. Perfect for any occasion, these sweet treats are sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. Enjoy the delightful fusion of oats and jam in each delectable bite!