The first bite of Grandma’s jam-filled sour cream cookies transports me straight to my childhood kitchen, where the air was thick with sweetness and laughter. I can still hear the joyful chatter as we rolled out the tender dough together, forming little circles ready to be lovingly filled with vibrant, homemade jam. This recipe is a treasure, handed down through generations, and it encapsulates the warmth of family gatherings and holiday celebrations.

Made with just five simple ingredients, these cookies are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor and nostalgia. The flaky exterior gives way to a jammy surprise that delights with every bite, making them perfect for your next gathering or a cozy afternoon treat. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to break away from fast food, these cookies remind us that simplicity can be the sweetest journey. Let’s dive in and recreate this timeless classic that will surely become a favorite in your home!

Why will you love Grandma’s Jam-Filled Sour Cream Cookies?

Nostalgic Delight: These Grandma’s Jam-Filled Sour Cream Cookies evoke heartwarming memories of childhood baking, making them a family favorite.
Simplicity: With just five ingredients, the recipe is approachable for cooks of all skill levels—perfect for busy weeknights or holidays.
Tender Texture: The flaky exterior offers a delightful contrast to the sweet jam center, satisfying every sweet tooth.
Versatile Flavors: Feel free to experiment with your favorite jams or add vanilla for a unique twist.
Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are not only a treat for yourself but also make wonderful gifts or crowd-pleasers at gatherings!
Make Ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and freeze it for a quick baking option whenever the craving strikes.

Grandma’s Jam-Filled Sour Cream Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to bake these delightful treats!

For the Dough

Soft Butter or Lard – Provides moisture and a tender texture; if avoiding lard, butter is a great substitute.
Sour Cream – Adds richness and tang; use full-fat (20-25% fat) for best results.
All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure; measure 350-400 grams, adjusting to keep the dough soft yet non-sticky.
Pinch of Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the jam.

For the Finishing Touch

Powdered Sugar – Lightly dust to provide a sweet, finishing touch.
Jam (Homemade Plum Jam Recommended) – Contributes sweetness and fruitiness; any preferred jam can be substituted for these Grandma’s Jam-Filled Sour Cream Cookies.

How to Make Grandma’s Jam-Filled Sour Cream Cookies

Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine soft butter or lard, sour cream, a pinch of salt, and flour. Mix them together until a soft dough forms, ensuring a tender texture.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently until smooth. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour as needed to keep it manageable.
Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. This step helps to firm it up, making it easier to roll out.
Preheat the Oven: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). A well-preheated oven ensures even baking for perfect cookies.
Roll Out the Dough: Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut it into circles.
Fill with Jam: Place 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of your favorite jam on each dough circle. Fold the dough over and press the edges with a fork to seal well.
Bake the Cookies: Arrange the filled cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for approximately 10 minutes until the edges are just starting to brown lightly.
Dust with Sugar: While the cookies are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar for a delightful, sweet finish. Store in a sealed container to keep them fresh.

Optional: For a fun twist, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the dough for added flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Grandma’s Jam-Filled Sour Cream Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful cookies and tailor them to your taste!

Butter Substitute: Use lard instead of butter for a richer, traditional flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to the dough for an aromatic twist that enhances the sweetness of the jam.
Jam Variety: Swap the recommended plum jam with your favorite flavors like raspberry, apricot, or mixed berry for exciting new tastes. Imagine the vibrant colors and flavors intermingling!
Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough to elevate the flavor profile with warm, comforting notes. These might remind you of cozy autumn days.
Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to the dough for a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft texture. Crunchy and creamy together—what a joy!
Gluten-Free Twist: Try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, and enjoy the same tender result with a different dietary option.
Fruity Fillings: Experiment with fresh fruit preserves or even chocolate hazelnut spread for a decadent alternative, offering a surprising pop of flavor!
Colorful Dusters: Instead of powdered sugar, sprinkle the cookies with colored sugar or edible glitter for festive occasions or just to add some fun to your baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Grandma’s Jam-Filled Sour Cream Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who love to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance; simply follow the initial steps and then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. This not only allows the flavors to meld beautifully but also keeps the dough fresh and easy to work with. When you’re ready to bake, just roll out the dough, fill with your favorite jam, and follow the baking instructions. Rest assured, these cookies will still be just as delicious and tender, ensuring that your future gatherings are filled with joy and nostalgia!

How to Store and Freeze Grandma’s Jam-Filled Sour Cream Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Fridge: For extended freshness, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Ensure the container is airtight to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: Freeze the cookies before baking by layering them between parchment paper, then sealing them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating: If enjoyed warm, reheat the frozen cookies in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their delightful, fresh-baked texture.

What to Serve with Grandma’s Jam-Filled Sour Cream Cookies?

The perfect accompaniment can elevate these delightful cookies into a full experience, inviting warmth and comfort to your table.

Freshly Brewed Coffee: The robust flavor of coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the jam cookies, enhancing each bite.
Creamy Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a rich cup of hot cocoa to complement the tender, flaky texture of the cookies, making for a cozy pairing.
Flavored Tea: Whether it’s a soothing chamomile or a zesty lemon, tea adds a refreshing note that balances the sugary sweetness of the cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful temperature contrast and is perfect for an indulgent dessert pairing.
Seasonal Fruit Salad: Chilled, vibrant fruit salad adds a fresh burst of flavor, beautifully balancing the rich jam-filled cookies for a light finish.
Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola with almonds or walnuts provides an enjoyable texture contrast and a healthful touch alongside the sweet cookies.
Lemonade Spritzer: A fizzy lemonade spritzer refreshes the palate, making it an excellent pairing for enjoying dessert on a warm day.
Plum Jam Biscuits: For those who adore jams, serve a side of buttery biscuits with additional plum jam for a double-layered treat.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The combination of chocolate and strawberries adds elegance and indulgence to your cookie spread, marrying beautifully with the jam.

Every idea promises to enrich the delightful experience of savoring Grandma’s jam-filled sour cream cookies, creating cherished memories with each pairing.

Expert Tips for Grandma’s Jam-Filled Sour Cream Cookies

Perfectly Preheat: Ensure your oven reaches 180°C (350°F) before baking. This prevents undercooking and helps achieve that lovely golden edge.
Watch the Dough: The dough should be soft, not sticky. If it feels tacky, sprinkle in a little more flour until it’s workable.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to mix and match jams! Raspberry, apricot, or even a citrus jam can add delightful variety to these Grandma’s jam-filled sour cream cookies.
Resting Time is Key: Allowing the cookies to rest for a day enhances their flavor, making them even more delectable.
Seal with Care: When folding the cookies, press the edges firmly to avoid any leaking jam during baking—this keeps your cookies perfectly intact.

Grandma’s Jam-Filled Sour Cream Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of jam should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using homemade plum jam, but you can use any of your favorite jams like raspberry, apricot, or strawberry. Each will give a unique twist to your Grandma’s Jam-Filled Sour Cream Cookies!

How should I store these cookies?
These cookies are best stored in a sealed container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 1 week. If you’d like to enjoy them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, just make sure the container is airtight to keep them from drying out.

Can I freeze Grandma’s Jam-Filled Sour Cream Cookies?
Of course! You can freeze the cookies before baking. Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they should stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, pop them straight from the freezer into the preheated oven without thawing, adding an extra minute or two to the bake time.

What should I do if my dough feels sticky?
If your dough becomes sticky while kneading, don’t worry! Just sprinkle in a little more all-purpose flour, about a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a soft but manageable consistency. This should take care of the stickiness and make it easier to roll out.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free Grandma’s Jam-Filled Sour Cream Cookies, use a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour substitute in place of all-purpose flour. Additionally, ensure that your jam is also gluten-free. This adaptation keeps the delicious flavor intact while accommodating dietary preferences.

How do I prevent the jam from leaking during baking?
To prevent any jam leakage while your cookies bake, it’s essential to seal the edges well. After placing the jam on the dough circle, fold the dough over and firmly press the edges with a fork to ensure they are tightly closed. This will help keep all that delightful jam inside!