Imagine a cookie that’s perfectly crisp around the edges, wonderfully tender in the center, and bursting with vibrant, sweet fruit flavor. That’s precisely what awaits you with these delightful Oatmeal Jam Cookies. Crafted to be both wholesome and incredibly satisfying, these jam-filled treats are remarkably simple to create, utilizing just a few pantry staples. They are versatile enough to grace your breakfast table, serve as an ideal anytime snack, or become a stunning addition to any holiday or Christmas cookie tray, adding a splash of color and homemade charm.
What makes these Oatmeal Jam Cookies truly exceptional is their inclusive nature. Made entirely without dairy or eggs, they are a fantastic option for vegans or anyone managing specific dietary allergies. Furthermore, the versatile cookie dough can easily be transformed into a gluten-free delight by simply swapping out traditional all-purpose flour for a cup-for-cup gluten-free alternative. Beyond their deliciousness, baking these cookies offers a wonderful opportunity to engage children in the kitchen. Their simple steps and rewarding outcome make them a perfect family activity, fostering little bakers’ creativity and a love for homemade treats.
If you’re a devoted fan of oatmeal in your baking, you’ll also adore my other wholesome creations, such as Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups, Blueberry Baked Oatmeal Cups, and my comforting Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Cups. Each recipe celebrates the nutritious versatility of oats in a delicious form.
Why You’ll Love These Easy Oatmeal Jam Cookies
These Oatmeal Jam Cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a symphony of taste, texture, and convenience. Here are compelling reasons why they’ll quickly become a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire:
- Dietary Friendly & Allergen-Conscious: One of the standout features of this recipe is its commitment to inclusivity. These delightful cookies are crafted without eggs or dairy, making them an ideal choice for vegans and individuals with common food allergies. This ensures everyone can enjoy a scrumptious, homemade cookie without compromise.
- A Feast for the Eyes: Beyond their incredible taste, these cookies are remarkably visually appealing. The vibrant, jewel-toned jam peeking from the center of each golden-brown cookie creates a striking contrast that is sure to impress. Whether arranged on a holiday platter or simply enjoyed as an afternoon pick-me-up, their colorful charm brightens any occasion.
- Effortlessly Simple & Kid-Friendly: You don’t need a pantry full of exotic ingredients or advanced baking skills to create these impressive cookies. Requiring just a handful of common components and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for novice bakers. It’s also an excellent activity for getting kids involved in the kitchen, allowing them to help with mixing, scooping, and filling, creating cherished memories alongside delicious results.
- Wholesome Goodness: Packed with hearty oats, these cookies offer a dose of fiber and sustained energy. They are wholesome enough to be enjoyed as a light breakfast or a guilt-free snack, providing a satisfying treat that feels good to eat.
- Customizable Flavor Profile: The beauty of these cookies lies in their adaptability. You can experiment with various jam flavors, add different spices, or incorporate mix-ins to create an endless array of customized treats tailored to your personal preferences.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Jam Cookies
Creating these sensational Jam-Filled Oatmeal Cookies requires a simple yet effective lineup of ingredients, many of which you likely already have on hand. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of crispy texture, tender chewiness, and fruity burst.
- Old Fashioned Oats: These are the star of our cookie show, providing that signature chewy texture and wholesome oat flavor. Old fashioned oats (rolled oats) contribute a delightful chewiness that quick-cooking oats might not fully replicate. However, if quick-cooking oats are what you have, they will work beautifully, resulting in a slightly softer cookie. Avoid steel-cut oats, as their coarser texture won’t integrate well into the dough.
- Flour: I recommend using regular all-purpose flour for its consistent results and reliable structure. For those seeking a gluten-free alternative, a high-quality all-purpose gluten-free flour blend (preferably one designed for cup-for-cup substitution) can be used without significantly altering the texture or flavor. Ensure your gluten-free blend contains xanthan gum or add a small amount separately for best binding.
- Granulated Sugar: White granulated sugar is essential for sweetness and contributes to the cookies’ crisp edges. If you desire a richer, slightly chewier cookie with subtle caramel notes, feel free to substitute a portion or all of the granulated sugar with light or dark brown sugar.
- Leavening (Baking Powder) & Salt: Baking powder is our leavening agent, ensuring the cookies achieve a light rise and tender crumb. Salt, though used in a small amount, is crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the other flavors in the cookie, preventing them from tasting flat.
- Coconut Oil: For a dairy-free and vegan recipe, refined coconut oil is an excellent choice. It provides the necessary fat for moisture and tenderness without imparting a strong coconut flavor (if refined). Ensure it’s at room temperature or slightly softened but not fully melted, for easy incorporation into the dough. Alternatively, if dairy is not a concern, unsalted butter at room temperature can be used for a classic rich flavor.
- Jam: This is where the magic happens! The choice of jam is entirely yours, allowing for endless customization. I used a delightful trio of peach, sour cherry, and raspberry jam, each offering a unique sweet and tart profile. Consider high-quality fruit preserves with good fruit content for the best flavor and texture. Other popular choices include strawberry, apricot, blueberry, or even fig jam.
How To Master Oatmeal Jam Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide
Crafting these delectable Oatmeal Jam Cookies is a straightforward process, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Follow these simple steps to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly crisp, tender, and bursting with fruity goodness.
- Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment and Oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This ensures your oven is at the optimal temperature when your dough is ready, promoting even baking. Next, take two regular-sized cupcake or muffin pans and lightly spray each cavity with cooking spray. This crucial step prevents the cookies from sticking and ensures easy removal after baking.
- Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients. In the bowl of a food processor, add your old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Pulse these ingredients a few times until they are just incorporated. Be careful not to over-process; we’re aiming for a coarse mixture where the oats are slightly broken down but still retain some texture, not a fine powder. This initial pulse helps to distribute the leavening and salt evenly.
- Step 3: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients to Form Dough. Now, add the room-temperature coconut oil (or softened butter) to the dry mixture in the food processor. Pulse again in short bursts until the mixture comes together and forms a cohesive, dough-like consistency. The dough should be crumbly yet hold together when pressed. If there are any loose ingredients clinging to the sides of the bowl, use a spatula to scrape them down and incorporate them into the dough, ensuring a uniform mixture.
- Step 4: Form and Fill the Cookies. Scoop a generous tablespoon of the prepared cookie dough into each individual cavity of your greased cupcake pans. Once the dough is in place, gently press the middle of each dough ball with your thumb or the back of a small spoon to create a shallow divot. This indentation will cradle our delicious jam filling. Next, spoon 1-2 teaspoons of your chosen jam into the center of each cookie divot. Be mindful not to overfill, as the jam can bubble over during baking.
- Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection and Serve. Place the cupcake pans in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes. The cookies are ready when their sides appear slightly golden-brown and the jam filling is bubbly and set. Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely within the pans on a wire rack. This cooling period is crucial, as it allows the jam to firm up and the cookies to set their shape, making them easier to handle. Once fully cooled, carefully transfer them to a serving plate and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Irresistible Jam-Filled Cookies
Achieving perfectly baked, beautifully filled Oatmeal Jam Cookies is simple with a few insider tips. These suggestions will help you elevate your baking game and ensure every batch is a resounding success.
- Choose the Right Pan Size: While the recipe specifies cupcake pans, using a regular-sized muffin tin works wonderfully. The key is moderation: use only about one tablespoon of dough per cookie to ensure they bake evenly and have enough room for the jam.
- Perfecting the Divot: To create a neat indentation for the jam, you can use your thumb, which is often the easiest method. Alternatively, the bottom of a clean shot glass or even a small, rounded measuring spoon can create a perfectly uniform divot. Press gently but firmly enough to form a well.
- A Flavorful Twist with Peanut Butter: For an exciting flavor combination that marries sweet and savory, add a small dollop of creamy peanut butter (or almond butter for a nut-free option) into the divot before spooning in the jam. This creates a delightful surprise layer.
- Boost Nutritional Value & Texture: For an added layer of flavor, crunch, and nutritional benefits, consider pulsing some finely chopped nuts (like walnuts, pecans, or almonds), flax seeds, or chia seeds into the cookie dough alongside the dry ingredients. This will introduce healthy fats and fiber.
- Explore Jam Varieties: Don’t limit yourself to just one type of jam! Experiment with different fruit jams or preserves to discover your favorite combinations. Apricot, blackberry, cherry, fig, and even citrus marmalade can offer unique and delicious results. Ensure your jam isn’t too runny, as this can cause it to spread too much during baking.
- Patience During Cooling: This is arguably the most crucial tip! Allow the cookies to cool completely within the muffin tin before attempting to transfer them. The jam needs time to cool and set firmly, and the cookies themselves will firm up as they cool. Rushing this step can lead to broken cookies and a sticky mess.
- Optimal Storage Practices: When storing your cooled cookies, place parchment paper or wax paper between layers to prevent them from sticking to each other, especially due to the jam filling. This keeps them looking and tasting their best.
- Don’t Overfill the Jam: While tempting to load up on jam, overfilling the divots can lead to the jam bubbling over during baking, creating a messy pan and burnt edges. Stick to 1-2 teaspoons per cookie.
- Uniform Cookie Size: Use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon to ensure each dough portion is roughly the same size. This promotes even baking, meaning all your cookies will be perfectly done at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oatmeal Jam Cookies
Yes, absolutely! While old fashioned (rolled) oats contribute a chewier texture to the cookies, quick oats can be used interchangeably. Quick oats are simply cut into smaller pieces and steamed longer, making them cook faster and result in a slightly softer or mushier texture in baked goods. Both options will yield delicious cookies, so feel free to use whichever you have on hand or even a combination of the two.
For this particular recipe, you will fill your cookies with jam before baking. The heat from the oven helps the jam to gel and set beautifully as the cookies bake and cool. Filling beforehand also allows the jam to meld perfectly with the cookie dough, creating a more integrated and flavorful treat. If you were to add jam after baking, it wouldn’t set as firmly within the cookie.
The original version of this jam-filled cookie recipe calls for all-purpose wheat flour, meaning it is not inherently gluten-free. However, making these cookies gluten-free is very simple! You will need to omit the regular all-purpose flour and replace it with a good quality, cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free, as oats can sometimes be processed in facilities that handle wheat, leading to cross-contamination.
To maintain their freshness and prevent sticking, store your baked Oatmeal Jam Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain fresh and delicious for up to 5 days. For best results, place layers of parchment paper or wax paper between the cookies to keep the jam from adhering to adjacent cookies.
Yes, these Jam-Filled Oatmeal Cookies freeze wonderfully! After they have cooled completely, wrap them tightly individually or in small stacks with plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply defrost them on the countertop at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
These versatile cookies pair beautifully with a variety of beverages and can complement a larger dessert spread. A classic choice is a cold glass of milk, or for a comforting treat, a warm cup of tea or cocoa. They are also a fantastic accompaniment to a rich Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee). If you’re building an impressive holiday cookie tray, consider adding other delightful treats like Lebanese Ghraybeh Shortbread Cookies, festive Peppermint Holiday Shortbread Cookies, charming Christmas Gingerbread Tree Cookies, or classic Traditional Danish Butter Cookies.
Discover More Oatmeal and Jam Delights
If you’ve fallen in love with the comforting taste of oats and the delightful sweetness of jam, you’ll be thrilled to explore more recipes that celebrate these fantastic ingredients. Here are some other favorites you might enjoy:
- Banana Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Crispy Almond Oatmeal Cookies
- Apple Pie Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
- Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies
- Strawberry Jam Linzer Cookies
I genuinely hope you cherish every recipe I share with you, and this delicious Oatmeal Jam Cookies recipe is no exception. It’s designed to bring joy and incredible flavor to your kitchen. Please give it a try, savor every bite, and consider leaving a rating and sharing your experience with your friends and family!
If you try this recipe and find yourself loving it, please take a moment to leave a star rating and a comment below. Your feedback means the world! Don’t forget to use my hashtag to share your delicious recreations with me on Instagram so I can see your wonderful baking. Also, make sure to follow Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK |INSTAGRAM |PINTEREST for all my latest social posts, kitchen tips, and new recipes. Happy baking!
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Oatmeal Jam Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups old fashioned oats
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup of coconut oil, or butter, room temperature
- ½ – 1 cup jam, any flavor
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 C) and spray 2 cupcake pans with cooking spray. Ensure the oven is fully preheated for even baking.
- In a food processor, pulse together the old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined and the oats are slightly broken down but not powdered.
- Add the room-temperature coconut oil (or softened butter) to the food processor. Pulse again until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency that holds together when pressed. Use a spatula to scrape down any loose ingredients and fully incorporate them.
- Scoop a heaping tablespoon of the dough into each cavity of the prepared cupcake pans. Gently press the center of each dough portion with your thumb or the back of a small spoon to create a divot. Spoon 1-2 teaspoons of your favorite jam into the center of each cookie, being careful not to overfill.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden and the jam is bubbly and set. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool completely in the pans on a wire rack before carefully transferring them to a serving plate. Cooling completely is essential for the jam to set and the cookies to firm up.
Notes
- You can use a regular-sized muffin tin, but ensure you only use about one tablespoon of dough per cookie to maintain the correct proportion and baking time.
- For a perfectly shaped divot in the cookies, press with your thumb or use the bottom of a clean shot glass or a rounded measuring spoon.
- For a fun and delicious twist, add a small dollop of peanut butter or your favorite nut butter into the divot before adding the jam.
- If desired, you can pulse some finely chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), flax seeds, or chia seeds into the cookie dough for added texture and nutritional value.
- Feel free to use any flavor of fruit jam or preserves that you love. Thicker jams tend to hold their shape better.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely in the pan before serving. This step is critical to ensure the jam sets properly and the cookies are firm enough to handle without breaking.
- When storing, place parchment paper or wax paper between layers of cookies in an airtight container to prevent them from sticking together.
Nutrition
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