Jam Jewels

I am participating in a virtual picnic over at Months of Edible Celebrations and the letter I received was 'J'.  Which was a little harder than I anticipated.  I was excited to find these cute cookies that started with J!  They are a tender and lightly sweet cookie.  I used raspberry jam, but lots of others would be very delicious also.  I actually thought these tasted better the next day!!

Jam Jewels

1 cup butter, softened slightly
1 cup powdered sugar
1 large egg yolk
3 oz. cream cheese, softened slightly
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
2 1/4 cups white flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Seedless jam for filling. 
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Cream butter and sugar. Beat in egg yolk then add cream cheese and vanilla.  Beat until thoroughly mixed. Add dry ingredients and mix until welll blended.   Let dough stand for 5-10 minutes to firm up slightly.  
Shape portions of the dough into 1 inch balls.  Place on a lightly greased cookie sheet.  Using your thumb or knuckle, press a deep well into the center of each ball.  Place about 1/4 teaspoon jam into each well. 

Bake for about 9-12 minutes ro until edges are slightly brown.

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 2 months.

Tip:Fill the cookies with jam or preserves and not jelly.

Most jellies are too thin and will bubble over and run during baking.

ENJOY!!

I will be posting the rest of the picnic soon...