If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s as charming in appearance as it is delicious in flavor, the Clothespin Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. With their delicate buttery texture, nutty undertones from chopped pecans, and a fruity surprise nestled right in the middle, these cookies are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. They capture that perfect balance of tender crumb and sweet jam, making them an instant favorite for tea times, holiday gatherings, or simply as an everyday indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Clothespin Cookies Recipe lies in its simplicity, relying on a handful of essential ingredients where each plays a key role. From the creamy richness of butter to the tangy brightness of jam, every component contributes to the cookies’ texture, flavor, and irresistible charm.
- 1 cup butter, softened: Provides a rich, creamy base that makes the cookies tender and flavorful.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting: Adds sweetness while keeping the texture light and smooth, and dusting gives a lovely finish.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Gives structure to the dough and ensures the perfect crumb.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Brings a delightful crunch and lovely nutty depth to the cookies.
- 1/2 cup raspberry or apricot jam: Packs a fruity punch right in the center, providing a sweet and slightly tart surprise.
How to Make Clothespin Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This foundational step sets you up for success right away.
Step 2: Mix the Butter, Sugar, and Vanilla
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This might be a bit of arm work, but the result is worth every beat—your dough will have that silky smooth texture that’s crucial for tender cookies.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flour and Salt Gradually
To keep everything well combined and avoid lumps, add the flour and salt little by little, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This careful process helps you achieve the perfect dough consistency that isn’t too dry or sticky, just right for shaping.
Step 4: Shape the Dough into Ropes and Twist
Take small bits of dough and roll each into approximately 1-inch balls. Then, roll those balls into 3-inch ropes. Now comes the fun part: twist each rope to create the distinctive clothespin shape. This unique form not only looks fantastic but also allows room for that luscious jam center later on.
Step 5: Bake Until Lightly Golden
Arrange your twisted cookies on the prepared baking sheet and pop them into the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes until they turn that perfect light golden color. Keep your eye on them; a golden hue means they’re about to deliver that melt-in-your-mouth experience you’re craving.
Step 6: Create the Jam Indentation
As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, use the handle of a wooden spoon to gently press an indentation into the center of each warm cookie. It’s important to do this while the cookies are still warm and pliable—this will cradle the jam perfectly without cracking the cookie.
Step 7: Cool and Fill with Jam
Let the cookies cool completely on wire racks. This step is crucial to ensure the jam stays thick and doesn’t run off. Once cooled, spoon your choice of raspberry or apricot jam right into the indentation, completing the signature look and flavor of this Clothespin Cookies Recipe.
Step 8: Optional Powdered Sugar Dusting
For a final touch that elevates both the look and taste, gently dust the cookies with extra powdered sugar. This sweet snowfall makes each cookie feel special and inviting, perfect for serving to guests or just treating yourself.
How to Serve Clothespin Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While the cookies are already picture-perfect, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant, frosted look. Fresh mint leaves or a small dollop of whipped cream on the side can also add a refreshing contrast and a burst of color.
Side Dishes
Clothespin Cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making tea time extra special. For a brunch or dessert spread, serve alongside fresh berries or a creamy vanilla yogurt to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the cookies upright in a decorative jar or basket, mimicking genuine clothespins on a line for a whimsical touch. Alternatively, package a few in a pretty box tied with a ribbon—these make wonderful handmade gifts that show you care.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Clothespin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to a week. The jam center holds up well and the cookies maintain their tender, buttery texture without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these beauties ahead of time, you can freeze the baked cookies without the jam. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Add the jam once you’re ready to serve for the freshest flavor.
Reheating
To gently reheat, let the cookies come to room temperature, then warm briefly in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for about 5 minutes. This refreshes their delicate crumb without melting the jam.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios work wonderfully, offering different textures and flavors while maintaining that delightful crunch.
Is it possible to make these cookies without jam?
You can skip the jam and enjoy them as buttery nutty cookies, but the jam adds a lovely moistness and fruity contrast that makes this Clothespin Cookies Recipe truly special.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh for up to one week, making them perfect for making ahead of special occasions.
Can I substitute the powdered sugar with granulated sugar?
Powdered sugar is best here because it ensures a silky, smooth dough. Granulated sugar might make the texture grainier and less tender.
What’s the best type of jam to use?
Raspberry and apricot jams are classics for this recipe due to their bright flavor and balanced sweetness, but feel free to experiment with your favorites like strawberry or cherry!
Final Thoughts
Making this Clothespin Cookies Recipe is like inviting a little joy into your kitchen, with every step revealing a new layer of deliciousness and charm. Their buttery crunch, nutty goodness, and fruity center are a combination that never gets old. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—once you do, these cookies will become a beloved staple you’ll want to share with everyone. Happy baking!
Print
Clothespin Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Clothespin Cookies are delightful buttery treats shaped uniquely like clothespins and filled with a sweet jam center. These crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside cookies combine the nutty flavor of chopped pecans with the fruity sweetness of raspberry or apricot jam, dusted lightly with powdered sugar, making them perfect for tea time or special occasions.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Filling
- 1/2 cup raspberry or apricot jam
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the dough.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition to form a smooth dough.
- Shape Dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then gently roll each ball into a 3-inch rope, which will form the unique clothespin shape.
- Form Clothespins: Twist each dough rope into a clothespin shape carefully and place them spaced out on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the cookies turn lightly golden brown to ensure they are cooked through but still tender.
- Create Indentations: Immediately after removing from the oven, use the handle of a wooden spoon to make an indentation in the center of each warm cookie for the jam filling.
- Cool Cookies: Transfer the cookies to wire racks and allow them to cool completely, which helps the cookies set properly and prevents the jam from melting.
- Fill with Jam: Once cooled, spoon raspberry or apricot jam into the indented centers of each cookie for a fruity burst of flavor.
- Dust with Sugar: Finally, dust the cookies with extra powdered sugar if desired before serving for an elegant and sweet finish.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for proper cookie texture.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- Use your favorite jam flavors like strawberry or blueberry for variety.
- The indentation should be made immediately after baking so the dough is still soft enough to shape.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.
