Jam Swirl Cookies

Jam swirl cookies remind me of a quiet afternoon I spent with my grandmother when she handed me a butter knife and said I was in charge of spreading the jam. Jam swirl cookies might seem simple but to that younger version of me it felt like magic seeing how the jam turned into a beautiful spiral once we rolled and sliced the dough and I still feel that same joy every time I bake them today.

I now make these cookies for tea parties lunchboxes and cozy holidays when something nostalgic and pretty is just what’s needed. The rich buttery dough melts in your mouth while the jam brings a fruity brightness and that stunning swirl always makes them look more complicated than they really are and that’s part of the charm.

Ingredients :

• Unsalted butter – Gives the cookies a rich melt-in-your-mouth base.
• Granulated sugar – Adds just the right sweetness to the dough.
• Egg – Helps bind the dough and keep it tender.
• Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the cookie flavor.
• All-purpose flour – Forms the structure and keeps the cookies crisp.
• Baking powder – Gives a slight lift to the cookie texture.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Fruit jam – Swirled into the dough for fruity brightness and a pop of color.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl – To blend the cookie dough ingredients.
• Electric mixer or hand mixer – Makes creaming butter and sugar easy and smooth.
• Spatula – Helps fold and spread jam without tearing the dough.
• Rolling pin – Essential for rolling the dough evenly before adding the swirl.
• Plastic wrap – Keeps the dough firm while chilling and makes it easier to roll.
• Sharp knife – Needed for slicing the swirl cookies cleanly.
• Baking sheet – For evenly baking the cookies to golden perfection.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

I begin by beating the softened butter with sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step sets the base for a perfectly tender cookie.

Step 2: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Next, I mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well incorporated. I make sure everything is smooth before moving to the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Then I slowly add this to the wet mixture to form a soft dough.

Step 4: Roll the Dough

I shape the dough into a rectangle between two sheets of parchment or plastic wrap and roll it out gently to about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 5: Spread the Jam

Using a butter knife, I spread a thin, even layer of jam across the surface. I make sure to leave a small border around the edges to avoid overflow.

Step 6: Roll and Chill

I carefully roll the dough into a log, wrap it tightly, and chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This makes slicing much easier and neater.

Step 7: Slice and Bake

Once chilled, I slice the log into 1/2-inch cookies and place them on a lined baking sheet. I bake them at 350°F for 10–12 minutes until the edges turn golden.

Tips

If you want to make it extra special, I suggest using homemade jam or mixing two flavors for a fun twist. Strawberry and apricot or raspberry and lemon work beautifully together. I also like to sprinkle a little coarse sugar on top before baking for extra sparkle and crunch. Don’t skip the chilling it keeps the cookies from spreading too much and helps maintain the swirl.

Ways to Serve

Pair with afternoon tea or coffee for a charming treat.

Pack in lunchboxes or gift tins during the holidays.

Serve with vanilla ice cream as a sweet surprise twist.

Display on a cookie platter at brunches or baby showers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any kind of jam in jam swirl cookies?

Yes, just make sure it’s not too runny. Thicker jams work best for clean swirls.

How do I keep the dough from cracking when rolling?

Let it sit out for a few minutes if it’s too firm and roll slowly using even pressure.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! Roll and wrap the dough log, then freeze. Slice and bake from frozen with a few extra minutes in the oven.

Do jam swirl cookies need to be refrigerated after baking?

Not unless your kitchen is very warm. Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 5 days.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these jam swirl cookies soon! They’re simple, pretty, and packed with comforting flavor in every bite. Whether for a bake sale, family gathering, or cozy afternoon at home, they always bring a little joy. Save this recipe and let me know how yours turn out I’d love to hear!

Happy Cooking!

Print