Queen Elizabeth’s 4-Ingredient Jam Puffs For Your Afternoon Tea Spreads!

Queen Elizabeth Jam Puffs are a delightful British treat inspired by the royal family. These little jam-filled cookies offer a burst of sweetness in every bite, making them perfect for an afternoon snack, tea time, or dessert. With their rich, buttery texture and fruit preserve center, they are simple to make but truly irresistible.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the richness of shortbread with the sweetness of jam, creating a bite-sized delight that’s hard to resist. The jam adds a fruity tang that balances beautifully with the buttery cookie base. They're perfect for both kids and adults, making them an ideal choice for family gatherings or casual afternoon tea. Plus, they’re super easy to make and require only a handful of ingredients—ideal for a last-minute treat!

What Are Queen Elizabeth Jam Pennies?

Queen Elizabeth Jam Pennies, also known as Jam Puffs or Jam Sandwich Cookies, are a traditional British biscuit enjoyed by many over the years. The simple, humble treat became associated with the royal family, as Queen Elizabeth II herself was said to enjoy these delightful pastries. Typically made with a shortbread-like dough, they are filled with fruit jam, often raspberry or strawberry, before being baked until golden and crisp. Whether served at a royal garden party or in the comfort of your home, these jam pennies are sure to bring a touch of elegance to your tea table.

Cooking Tips

• Choose the right jam: While raspberry or strawberry is most common, feel free to experiment with different fruit preserves. Apricot or blackberry jam can also offer a unique twist!
• Don’t overwork the dough: Overworking the dough can result in a tougher cookie. Mix just until the dough comes together for a light, crisp texture.
• Chill the dough: Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it out helps the cookies keep their shape while baking.
• Bake until golden: The cookies should be golden at the edges, but keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking and making them too dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade jam for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade jam will add a fresh, personal touch to the cookies. Just make sure it’s thick enough to not run out during baking.

What type of flour is best for making these cookies?

All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, giving the cookies just the right texture. You can also try a gluten-free blend if needed.

How long will these cookies last?

Stored in an airtight container, these cookies should stay fresh for about a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter gives the best flavor, margarine can be used as a substitute for a dairy-free version. The cookies will still turn out delicious!

How to Store

After enjoying your batch of Queen Elizabeth Jam Pennies, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a container.

How to Freeze

These cookies freeze beautifully! You can freeze the unbaked dough for up to one month. Roll the dough into discs, place a dollop of jam in the center, then freeze the dough pieces on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-lock bag or airtight container. When you're ready to bake, just place them on a baking tray and bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup fruit jam (raspberry, strawberry, or your choice)
• 1 egg yolk (optional, for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions