Make classic Homemade Jammie Dodgers with this easy shortbread cookie recipe filled with strawberry jam. These traditional British biscuits are perfect for baking with kids, afternoon tea, or holiday cookie trays. Learn how to bake soft, buttery cookies with a jam center using simple pantry ingredients.

These classic British sandwich cookies feature buttery shortbread and a sweet strawberry jam filling. Perfectly crisp, lightly golden, and filled with nostalgia, they’re ideal for afternoon tea, holidays, or any time you crave a homemade treat.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

2 sticks (227g) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
2¼ cups (270g) all-purpose flour
About 12 teaspoons strawberry jam (room temperature)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the flour and mix until the dough starts to form clumps.
Transfer the mixture to a lightly floured surface. Knead gently with your hands for 20–30 seconds until it forms a smooth dough ball.

Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough out to about ¼ inch (6mm) thick.
Use a round cookie cutter to cut out an even number of circles.
Cut a small heart (or shape of choice) from the center of half of the circles to create the tops.
Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheet.
Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to help retain their shape during baking.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
Bake the cookies for 13–16 minutes, or until the very edges just begin to turn golden. The centers should remain pale.
Let cookies rest on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Assemble

Once fully cooled, spread about 1 teaspoon of strawberry jam onto the flat side of each bottom cookie.
Gently press a top cookie (with the cut-out center) over the jam.
Let sit for a few minutes before serving, or dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Tips

Room temperature butter creates the best texture—soft but not greasy.
Don’t skip the chill time; it prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
Use a smooth jam or strain chunky jam for easier spreading and a neater look.
For sharp shapes, dip cookie cutters in flour between uses.

Variations and Substitutions

Filling options: Try raspberry, apricot, or lemon curd for a twist.
Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Sugar dusting: Dust the tops with powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish.
Flavor the dough: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of lemon zest.

FAQs

How long do Jammie Dodgers last?
They keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze them?
Yes—freeze the unfilled cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw, then fill with jam before serving.

Can I use margarine or salted butter?
Unsalted butter is best for flavor control, but salted will work—just skip any added salt.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with English breakfast tea or coffee for an afternoon snack.
Add to cookie boxes or holiday gift tins.
Pack in school lunches or picnic baskets for a sweet surprise.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic homemade shortbread with a melt-in-your-mouth texture
Customizable filling to match any flavor preference
Simple ingredients and easy steps make it beginner-friendly
Perfect for holidays, gifts, and tea time traditions