These delicate sandwich cookies combine a buttery, crumbly texture with sweet jam filling to create an irresistible treat that literally melts in your mouth. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have homemade cookies that rival any bakery creation. The light, tender crumb paired with your favorite jam makes these perfect for afternoon tea, special occasions, or whenever you crave something sweet and comforting.
Ingredients
- Large egg – 1
- Granulated sugar – 60g / ¼ cup
- Vegetable oil – 100ml / ⅓ cup + 1 tbsp
- Fresh lemon zest – from 1 lemon
- Salt – pinch
- All-purpose flour – 280g / 2¼ cups
- Baking powder – 10g / 2 tsp
- Jam or preserves – 150g / ½ cup (any flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, crack the egg and add sugar. Whisk together until well combined and slightly pale. Pour in the vegetable oil and mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Add the fresh lemon zest and a pinch of salt to the wet ingredients. The lemon zest will give the cookies a bright, fresh flavor that complements any jam filling.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour and baking powder together, then gradually add to the wet mixture. Mix gently until a soft dough forms. The dough should be pliable but not sticky.
Step 4: Divide and Shape
Divide the dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. The dough should be easy to work with and hold together well.
Step 5: Create the Sandwich
Spread your chosen jam evenly over one sheet of dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully place the second sheet of dough on top, pressing gently around the edges to seal.
Step 6: Cut into Cookies
Using a sharp knife or cookie cutter, cut the layered dough into rectangular or square cookies, approximately 2 inches in size. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet with slight spacing between each cookie.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 180°C / 350°F. Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the tops appear set. The cookies should feel firm but still tender.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve once completely cooled for the best texture and flavor.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: Makes about 16 cookies
- Calories: Approximately 115 per cookie
Nutrition Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 115
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Vitamin C: 3% DV (from lemon zest)
- Iron: 4% DV
Why This Recipe is Good
These homemade cookies offer a more wholesome alternative to store-bought varieties by using simple, recognizable ingredients without artificial preservatives or excessive additives. The eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients, while the moderate sugar content makes them a reasonable occasional treat. Fresh lemon zest adds vitamin C and natural citrus oils that support immune function. The jam filling contributes fruit-derived vitamins and antioxidants, depending on the variety chosen. When enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, these tender cookies satisfy sweet cravings without the excessive sugar and processed ingredients found in many commercial options. The controlled portion size also makes it easier to enjoy them mindfully as a special treat rather than overindulging.