Scrumptious Jam-Layered Cookie Bars

This delightful recipe for jam-layered cookie bars is the perfect treat for those who love a mix of buttery, sweet, and fruity flavors. The bars feature a luscious buttery crust that melts in your mouth, topped with dollops of your choice of jam, offering a burst of tangy sweetness in every bite. These cookie bars are easy to make, with simple ingredients, and are sure to impress at any gathering. The preparation involves making a dough similar to pasta dough, chilled for easy handling, and then grated directly onto a baking sheet for an interesting texture. The jam provides a vibrant pop of color and flavor, making these bars as pretty as they are tasty. Perfect for a tea-time treat, a quick dessert, or a sweet breakfast option, these bars will become a go-to in your baking repertoire. You can get creative by experimenting with different jam flavors, making these bars versatile enough for various tastes. The recipe is straightforward, with just a bit of time needed for the dough to chill, so plan accordingly. Finally, the baking time gives the bars a delightful golden hue and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Serve them warm for extra coziness or let them cool for a firmer bite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 500 g butter
• 3-5 eggs
• 250 g sugar
• 0.5 tsp salt
• Flour (enough to make a dough as thick as pasta dough)
• Jam of your choice

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by softening the butter in a mixing bowl. Use the back of a spoon to gently mash it until it reaches a soft but not melted state.
2. Add salt to the butter, stirring it in evenly to ensure it's well distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Gradually add flour, enough to create a dough with a consistency similar to pasta dough. This should be firm enough to hold its shape but still pliable.
4. Introduce sugar and eggs, making sure not to beat them. Simply mix them together with the dough until combined.
5. Wrap the dough in baking paper and place it in a cool area. This helps firm up the butter and makes the dough easier to handle.
6. Let the dough rest until it's firm enough to handle without losing shape.
7. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) to ensure it's hot enough for baking when ready.
8. On the next day (or the same day if you prefer), place the dough in the freezer for a short time to make it easier to handle.
9. Grate the dough directly onto a lined baking sheet using a vegetable grater, spreading it out evenly.
10. Add small dollops of your favorite jam in between the grated dough sections, leaving some space for the dough to rise and expand.
11. Ensure that the jam is evenly distributed across the entire surface to achieve the best flavor balance.
12. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven, and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes.
13. Monitor the bars closely, checking for a light golden hue and a firm but slightly springy texture.
14. Remove from the oven when ready, and allow them to cool slightly.
15. Slice the bars while warm to make cutting easier and prevent crumbling.
16. Serve immediately for a fresh-from-the-oven delight or let them cool down for later enjoyment.
17. Store any leftover bars in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.
18. Explore flavor combinations by trying different types of jams, such as raspberry, apricot, or mixed berry.
19. Consider sprinkling powdered sugar on top for an added touch of sweetness and presentation.
20. Enjoy your homemade jam-layered cookie bars, perfect with a cup of tea or as a dessert after a hearty meal.

Tips

• For optimal texture, ensure the butter is soft, not melted, before beginning the dough.
• Experiment with different jams like raspberry, strawberry, or even a citrus marmalade.
• If you find the dough too sticky, chill it for a longer period before handling.

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend that suits baking.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free butter alternatives to cater to dietary restrictions.
• Sugar-Free Jam: Opt for no-sugar-added jams for a healthier balance.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these bars with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
• Serve with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Garnish with fresh berries for a vibrant presentation.

Best Places

• The Cookie Bar Cafe - Known for its cozy ambiance and delightful pastries. Location: 45 Sweet Lane, Toronto, Canada.
• Slice of Heaven - This bakery's cookies and bars are a community favorite. Location: 12 Dessert Ave, New York City, USA.
• Jam & Delight - Offers a vast selection of jam-based desserts. Location: 33 Berry Street, London, UK.
• The Sweet Spot - A quaint cafe with a dedication to fresh ingredients. Location: 76 Crumb Lane, Melbourne, Australia.
• Cookie Crumbles Cafe - Famous for its homemade cookies and friendly setting. Location: 28 Sugar Road, Auckland, New Zealand.
• Butter & Jam - A bakery with a penchant for creative and delicious treats. Location: 110 Baker Street, Dublin, Ireland.
• The Gourmet Bar - Popular among locals and tourists alike for its sweet offerings. Location: 64 Treat Blvd, Vancouver, Canada.
• Pastry's Paradise - Offers an extensive menu of pastries and cookies. Location: 98 Delight Drive, Lisbon, Portugal.
• Sugar & Spice - Known for its rich, flavorful baked goods. Location: 56 Candied Street, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Café Gusto - A beloved spot for an afternoon treat or a morning delight. Location: 90 Bonbon Rd, Rome, Italy.