The holidays are a magical time filled with festive decorations, gift shopping, and, of course, indulgent treats. I can’t get through a single day in December without enjoying something sweet. Whether it’s a Christmas cut-out, molasses cookie, or mint brownie, I always find an excuse to indulge. I keep a stash of homemade treats ready for those moments when the sweet cravings hit, making sure to share some with friends while saving a batch just for myself.
While I adore the process of baking during the holidays, I don’t always have the time to spend hours in the kitchen. With all the events and activities filling up the calendar, sometimes I need a quick solution. That’s when these 2-ingredient jam bars come in handy. They’re a simple yet delicious holiday treat that you can whip up in no time.
These jam bars are a true lifesaver during the busy season. With only two ingredients—refrigerated sugar cookie dough and jam—you can create a batch of buttery, tender bars that taste like they came from a bakery. No one will believe how simple they are to make, and they’re the perfect addition to any holiday spread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These 2-ingredient jam bars are the perfect solution for when you need a sweet treat without the hassle. They’re quick to make and require minimal effort, allowing you to focus on other holiday tasks.
The combination of buttery cookie dough and fruity jam results in a flavor that’s both sweet and tart, satisfying those cravings without overwhelming your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just looking for a snack to enjoy with a cup of tea, these bars have you covered.
Ingredients Overview:
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The two main ingredients are refrigerated sugar cookie dough and jam—both easy to find and store. You can customize the flavor by using different types of jam, and I recommend using jam or preserves instead of jelly for a richer, more textured filling. Raspberry jam is my personal favorite, but any variety will work, and you can even mix flavors for a fun twist.
How to Make the Recipe:
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This will ensure that your bars don’t stick to the pan after baking, making cleanup easier. The parchment paper also helps in removing the bars after they cool. Set the pan aside as you prepare the dough.
Step 2: Press the Dough Base
Crumble about 2/3 of the refrigerated cookie dough into the prepared pan. Use your fingers to press the dough evenly across the bottom of the pan, forming a crust-like layer. Make sure the dough is pressed down firmly to prevent gaps in the base while baking. This will serve as the foundation for your jam filling.
Step 3: Add the Jam
Spoon 2/3 cup of your chosen jam or preserves onto the dough base. Use the back of a spoon to spread the jam evenly, leaving about 1/4 inch of dough around the edges. The jam should cover the dough in a thin layer, ensuring each bite has the perfect balance of sweetness. Choose your favorite jam flavor to personalize the bars.
Step 4: Top with Remaining Dough
Crumble the remaining cookie dough over the jam to create a crumble-like topping. Distribute the dough as evenly as possible over the jam, ensuring it covers the filling in a loose, crumbly layer. The dough topping will bake into a golden crust that complements the fruity jam underneath. Don’t worry if the jam peeks through in some spots—this adds to the rustic charm.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check the bars when the top is golden brown and the jam doesn’t jiggle when you move the pan. This indicates that the jam has set and the dough is fully baked. Be sure to keep an eye on the bars to prevent burning.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. This allows the jam to firm up and makes cutting the bars easier. After cooling, slice the bars into 12 to 16 squares using a sharp knife. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips for the Best Recipe:
- Be sure to let the bars cool completely before slicing to prevent the jam from oozing out.
- For a more even distribution of jam, warm the jam slightly before spreading it on the dough.
- If you want a crispier crust, bake for a couple of minutes longer, keeping an eye on the top so it doesn’t burn.
Variations to Try:
- Mixed Jam Flavors: Try combining different jam flavors, like raspberry and apricot, for a fun and unique taste.
- Citrus Jam: For a zesty twist, use orange or lemon marmalade as the filling.
- ChocoJam Bars: Swap the jam for a layer of melted chocolate for a sweet variation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: Can I use homemade cookie dough? Yes, you can use homemade sugar cookie dough if you prefer. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still work great in this recipe.
Q2: Can I freeze these bars? Yes, these bars freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They can be frozen for up to a month.
Q3: What kind of jam works best? I recommend using a jam or preserves with some texture, like raspberry, strawberry, or apricot. Jelly can be too runny and may not set as well.
Q4: How long can I store these bars? Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store them for longer, keep them in the fridge.
Q5: Can I add nuts to these bars? Absolutely! You can sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking for a delicious crunchy texture.
How to Store and Reheat:
Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them for a longer period, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week. To reheat, place them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.
Conclusion:
These 2-ingredient jam bars are a perfect holiday treat that’s as simple as it is delicious. They’re an easy way to enjoy something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen, leaving you with more time to enjoy the season. Whether you’re baking for yourself or making a batch to share with loved ones, these bars will be a hit. Follow Ava Foodie on Pinterest for more festive recipes!
