Ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough:

• 2 large eggs
• 80g (about 1/3 cup) sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• 100ml sunflower oil
• 180g (1 ½ cups) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the Jam Filling:

• Jam of your choice (e.g., strawberry, raspberry, apricot)
• Coconut flour for rolling (about 2-3 tablespoons)

Steps to Prepare:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets:
   • Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, crack the 2 eggs and whisk them together with 80g of sugar until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. Add the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Whisk again until everything is well combined.
3. Add the Sunflower Oil:
   • Slowly pour the 100ml of sunflower oil into the egg mixture, stirring constantly to ensure that it is fully incorporated. The oil will add moisture and a slight richness to the cookie dough, helping them to bake to a perfect, soft texture.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, sift together 180g of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. This will ensure that your cookies are light and fluffy. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until the dough comes together. It should be soft and slightly sticky.
5. Shape the Cookies:
   • Take a small amount of dough and roll it into a ball, about the size of a tablespoon. For extra flavor and texture, roll the balls in a thin layer of coconut flour to give them a light, coconutty crust. This will help add a subtle tropical twist to the cookies.
6. Create a Hollow for the Jam:
   • Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Gently press your finger or the back of a spoon into the center of each dough ball to create a small well. Be sure not to press too hard—just enough to make space for the jam filling.
7. Fill with Jam:
   • Spoon about half a teaspoon of your chosen jam into the hollow of each cookie. You can use any flavor of jam you prefer—strawberry, raspberry, apricot, or even marmalade. Make sure to fill the well with a small amount of jam, as too much jam can overflow during baking.
8. Bake the Cookies:
   • Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking, as the exact time may vary depending on your oven.
9. Cool and Serve:
   • Once the cookies are golden and fragrant, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. The jam filling will firm up slightly as the cookies cool.

Prep Time:

• 15 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 12-15 minutes

Total Time:

• 30 minutes

Kcal (Approximate per cookie):

• 120-150 kcal (depending on the jam used and the size of the cookie)

Servings:

• Makes approximately 18-20 cookies

Explanation of the Recipe:

The Simple Jam-Filled Coconut Cookies are a perfect blend of texture and flavor. The dough, made with eggs, sugar, sunflower oil, and flour, creates a soft, slightly crumbly base for the jam filling. The addition of coconut flour to the outside of the cookies before baking gives them a delightful texture and a hint of coconut flavor, which pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the jam.

What makes this recipe timeless is its simplicity. It uses common pantry ingredients, yet the result is an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The cookies’ ease of preparation and quick baking time make them ideal for busy bakers, while the versatility of the jam filling allows you to tailor the cookies to your taste. Whether you prefer sweet berry jams or tart citrus options, these cookies offer endless possibilities.

The slightly crispy exterior from the coconut flour and the sweet, sticky jam inside create a contrast that is both comforting and satisfying. These cookies are ideal for a snack, an after-school treat for kids, or a light dessert at the end of a meal. Their versatility also makes them a great choice for gifting or serving at holiday gatherings, where their vibrant colors and inviting aroma will be sure to impress.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Cookie):

• Calories: 120-150 kcal
• Protein: 2 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 9 g
• Sodium: 35 mg
• Cholesterol: 15 mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of oil instead of sunflower oil? Yes, you can substitute sunflower oil with other neutral oils like canola oil, vegetable oil, or even melted butter for a richer flavor.

2. Can I use homemade jam for this recipe? Absolutely! Homemade jam works perfectly in these cookies and can add a personal touch to the flavor. Just make sure the jam isn’t too runny, or it may spill out during baking.

3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free? Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour. Just ensure that the coconut flour is not replaced, as it contributes to the texture and flavor.

4. How can I store these cookies? Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you live in a humid climate, you can refrigerate them to keep them fresh for a longer period. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

5. Can I add other fillings besides jam? Certainly! These cookies are versatile, and you can experiment with other fillings like Nutella, chocolate ganache, or even lemon curd. Just be sure that the filling isn’t too runny.

Tips for Making the Perfect Jam-Filled Coconut Cookies:

• Use a thick jam: To avoid spillage, use a thicker jam or jelly that will hold up during baking. If the jam is too runny, it may overflow during baking, making the cookies messy.
• Roll the dough in coconut flour: Rolling the cookie dough balls in coconut flour before baking will give them a subtle coconut flavor and a slightly crispy texture on the outside.
• Don’t overfill with jam: A small dollop of jam is all you need. Overfilling can lead to messy cookies that might be hard to handle or too gooey.
• Experiment with flavors: These cookies are versatile, and you can experiment with different flavors of jam, such as berry, citrus, or even marmalade. You could also swap the coconut flour for other ingredients like finely shredded coconut for a different texture.

Storage Tips:

• Room temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate the cookies, though the texture may change slightly.
• Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to 2 months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Conclusion:

Simple Jam-Filled Coconut Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet, soft, and slightly crumbly, offering the ideal treat for any occasion. With their easy-to-follow steps, minimal ingredients, and delightful flavor, these cookies are a timeless recipe that you can enjoy year-round. Whether you’re baking for a special event, a family gathering, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these jam-filled coconut cookies will always deliver satisfaction. The best part? You can get creative with the jam filling, making them as unique as you are. So gather your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy these irresistibly delicious cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee!