Few cookies hold as much nostalgic charm as Jammie Dodgers. With their golden, buttery shortbread exterior and vibrant jam-filled centers, these delightful treats are an absolute classic in British baking. Whether you remember them from childhood teatimes or you’re discovering them for the first time, making Jammie Dodgers at home brings a rewarding sense of craftsmanship.
In this article, we’ll explore the history of Jammie Dodgers, their cultural significance, how they have evolved over time, and creative ways to enjoy them beyond the traditional recipe. Plus, we’ll answer common FAQs and provide a conclusion on why this cookie continues to stand the test of time.
A Brief History of Jammie Dodgers
Jammie Dodgers may be a household name today, but their story dates back to the mid-20th century. These cookies were originally created by the Burton Biscuit Company, one of the most well-known biscuit manufacturers in the UK. The company named them after Roger the Dodger, a mischievous character from the British comic series The Beano.
From the moment they hit the market, Jammie Dodgers became a sensation. The combination of crumbly shortbread and sweet, sticky raspberry jam was a winner, and their playful, heart-shaped cut-out in the center made them visually appealing. Over the years, the recipe has remained largely the same, with only slight variations in flavors and branding.
Today, these cookies remain a staple in supermarkets, but homemade versions allow for a fresher, richer flavor and endless customization.
Ingredients:
For the Cookie Dough:
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
- Strawberry jam (or your favorite jam)
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- Cream butter, sugar, and salt using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add egg, vanilla, and almond extract (if using), mixing until well incorporated.
- Gradually add flour in small batches, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll Out and Cut the Cookies:
- Lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness.
- Use a 1 ½-inch round or scalloped cookie cutter to cut out cookies.
- For half of the cookies, use a smaller cutter (heart, circle, or star) to create a center cut-out.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Chill the cut cookies in the freezer for 5 minutes to hold their shape.
- Bake for 7-8 minutes, or until edges start to turn golden.
- Let cookies cool completely before assembling.
- Assemble the Jammie Dodgers:
- Spread 1 teaspoon of jam onto the flat side of a full cookie.
- Place a cut-out cookie on top, gently pressing to form a sandwich.
- (Optional) Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Nutritional Info (Per Cookie Sandwich):
- Calories: ~150
- Fat: ~8g
- Carbohydrates: ~18g
- Sugar: ~9g
- Protein: ~2g
Why Jammie Dodgers Are So Loved
What makes these cookies so special? Several factors contribute to their popularity:
- A Perfect Texture Combination – The buttery shortbread melts in your mouth, while the jam filling provides a chewy, sweet contrast.
- Visually Appealing – Their signature cut-out center makes them look as good as they taste.
- Nostalgic Charm – Many people associate Jammie Dodgers with childhood memories, lunchboxes, and teatime treats.
- Versatility – They can be customized with different jams, fillings, and even shapes for special occasions.
- Simple Yet Elegant – With just a few basic ingredients, you can create cookies that feel gourmet and bakery-quality at home.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Jammie Dodgers
While the traditional strawberry or raspberry-filled Jammie Dodger is the most well-known version, there are many creative ways to enjoy this cookie. Here are some unique twists:
1. Try Different Fillings
- Apricot Jam – A slightly tangy and rich alternative to the traditional flavors.
- Lemon Curd – Adds a citrusy brightness that pairs beautifully with shortbread.
- Nutella or Chocolate Ganache – A decadent twist for chocolate lovers.
- Salted Caramel – Balances sweetness with a touch of salty depth.
2. Make Them Extra Festive
- Holiday Shapes – Instead of round cookies with a heart cut-out, try stars for Christmas, bunnies for Easter, or pumpkins for Halloween.
- Dusted with Powdered Sugar – Adds a refined, elegant touch.
- Dip Half in Chocolate – Create a half-shortbread, half-chocolate cookie for a stunning effect.
3. Turn Them into Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Spread a thin layer of ice cream between two Jammie Dodgers and freeze for a refreshing summer treat.
4. Make a Giant Jammie Dodger
- Bake one large cookie sandwich, rather than multiple smaller ones, and serve it as a show-stopping dessert.
5. Serve with Tea, Coffee, or Cocktails
- These cookies pair perfectly with a classic English Breakfast Tea or a strong espresso.
- For an adult twist, serve alongside a sweet dessert wine or Irish coffee.
Jammie Dodgers vs. Other Popular Sandwich Cookies
Jammie Dodgers may seem similar to other jam-filled cookies, but they stand apart in several ways:
| Cookie Type | Key Differences |
|---|---|
| Jammie Dodgers | Buttery shortbread with a jam center, no icing or cream |
| Linzer Cookies | Similar, but often made with ground almonds and powdered sugar |
| Bourbon Biscuits | Chocolate-flavored biscuits with a sweet cream filling |
| Oreos | Crunchy chocolate cookies with a soft cream center |
| Empire Biscuits | A Scottish variation with icing and a cherry on top |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes! While all-purpose flour is the standard, you can use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
2. What’s the best way to store homemade Jammie Dodgers?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. If filled with jam, they may soften slightly over time.
3. Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the unfilled cookies for up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw them and add the jam filling.
4. Can I make these cookies vegan?
Absolutely! Use vegan butter and an egg substitute (like flaxseed meal mixed with water) for a plant-based version.
5. What’s the difference between Jammie Dodgers and Linzer cookies?
Linzer cookies are more delicate and often made with ground nuts and dusted with powdered sugar. Jammie Dodgers use a sturdier shortbread and tend to be slightly crispier.
6. Why do I need to chill the dough before baking?
Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, helping them keep their shape.
Conclusion: A Cookie Worth Baking from Scratch
Jammie Dodgers are more than just cookies—they’re a part of British culinary history. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, afternoon tea, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, they never fail to impress.
While store-bought versions are widely available, homemade Jammie Dodgers offer a freshness and richness that can’t be replicated. From their buttery, crumbly texture to their sweet jam filling, every bite is a reminder of why these cookies have stood the test of time.
So, whether you’re a lifelong fan or trying them for the first time, why not bake a batch and rediscover the simple joy of homemade cookies?
Print
Best Jammie Dodgers Recipe – Quick & Simple
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 cookie sandwiches 1x
Description
Jammie Dodgers are the ultimate treat for cookie lovers! These buttery, crumbly shortbread sandwich cookies are filled with sweet strawberry jam and feature an adorable cut-out design. Perfect for tea time, holidays, or gifting, these homemade Jammie Dodgers are easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
- Strawberry jam (or your favorite jam)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter, sugar, and salt.
- Beat with a hand mixer or stand mixer (paddle attachment) on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and mix until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour in 2-3 additions, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough to a thickness of ¼ inch.
- Use a 1 ½-inch round or scalloped cookie cutter to cut out cookie shapes.
- For half the cookies, use a ½-inch heart or circle cutter to create a hole in the center.
- Chill and Bake:
- Arrange the cookies on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving 1 inch of space between each cookie.
- Chill the cookies in the freezer for 5 minutes to help them hold their shape.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the cookies for 7-8 minutes, or until the edges just start to turn light golden.
- Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheets.
- Assemble the Jammie Dodgers:
- Spread about 1 teaspoon of strawberry jam onto the flat side of each full cookie (without the cut-out).
- Place a cookie with a cut-out on top of each jam-covered cookie, pressing gently to create a sandwich.
- Optional Garnish:
- Dust the top cookies lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch.
Notes
- Dough Storage: The dough can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
- Jam Tips: Use a thick jam to prevent it from oozing out of the cookies. Strawberry and raspberry are classic choices, but you can experiment with other flavors.
- Customization: Feel free to use different shapes for the cut-outs, like stars, circles, or flowers, to match the occasion.
- Storing: Store assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
