Blueberry-Maple Jam-Filled Oatmeal Cookies: A Sweet Surprise Awaits

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, freshly baked oatmeal cookie. Its hearty texture, distinct aroma, and comforting flavors ooze warmth and nostalgia. Today, I bring you a twist on this classic treat – Blueberry-Maple Jam-Filled Oatmeal Cookies. With a delightful surprise nestled within each cookie, this recipe takes the humble oatmeal cookie to new heights.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup blueberry-maple jam (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare your baking sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine dry ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Set the mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream the butter and sugar

Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, cream together the softened butter and packed brown sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add wet ingredients

Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Continue mixing until well combined, scrapping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 5: Incorporate dry ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 6: Shape the dough

Take about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a small dollop (around ½ teaspoon) of blueberry-maple jam in the center of the flattened dough. Fold the edges of the dough over the jam, sealing it inside. Roll the cookie gently between your hands to form a round ball. Repeat this process with the remaining dough and jam.

Step 7: Bake the cookies

Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will be soft right out of the oven, so be gentle when moving them. Once cooled, these Blueberry-Maple Jam-Filled Oatmeal Cookies are ready to be savored and shared.

Tips and Variations:

• Experiment with different flavored jams like raspberry, strawberry, or even citrus marmalades to create surprising bursts of flavor.
• If you prefer a chewier oatmeal cookie, substitute quick oats for rolled oats in the recipe.
• Combine spices such as nutmeg or cardamom with the cinnamon for a unique twist.
• Serve these cookies with a warm cup of tea or a tall glass of cold milk for the perfect snack.

Conclusion:

These Blueberry-Maple Jam-Filled Oatmeal Cookies are sure to become a family favorite. With their combination of comforting flavors and sweet surprises, they are a true delight for cookie lovers everywhere. So gather your loved ones and celebrate the joy of home baking while indulging in these irresistible treats.