Jelly Butterballs, a delightful treat originating from South Carolina, embody the essence of southern comfort with their buttery goodness and a hint of sweetness. These cookies, with their irresistible taste and simple preparation, are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy afternoon snack.
With a total preparation and cooking time of just 33 minutes, including a quick 20 minutes of prep and a mere 13 minutes in the oven, these Jelly Butterballs promise to satisfy your sweet cravings in no time. Plus, they offer a fun and interactive cooking experience, making them a favorite among kids who love to lend a hand in the kitchen.
The name itself evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth, hinting at the rich, buttery flavor that awaits. Each bite is a symphony of textures and tastes, from the tender crumb of the cookie to the burst of fruity jelly or creamy peanut butter nestled within.
What sets these cookies apart is their adaptability to different types of flour, particularly the unique southern flour found in South Carolina. If you’re using flour from other regions, remember to adjust the quantity slightly, reducing it by about a tablespoon to ensure the perfect consistency and flavor.
Let’s delve into the ingredients that make these Jelly Butterballs truly special. You’ll need:
- 1/2 cup of butter: The star ingredient that gives these cookies their rich, indulgent flavor.
- 2/3 cup of sugar: Adding just the right amount of sweetness to balance the buttery richness.
- 2 cups of flour: The backbone of the cookie dough, providing structure and texture.
- 2 egg yolks: Adding richness and a tender crumb to the cookies.
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt: Enhancing the flavor and balancing the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Infusing the cookies with a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Peanut butter or jelly: The crowning touch, offering a burst of flavor and a delightful surprise in every bite.
Now, let’s embark on the journey of creating these mouthwatering treats. Follow these simple steps:
- Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth base for the cookie dough.
- Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, incorporating them fully into the mixture.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, beating well after each addition until fully combined.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, infusing the dough with its aromatic flavor.
- The dough will come together into a stiff consistency, ready to be transformed into delectable cookies.
- Using a teaspoon, scoop out heaping spoonfuls of dough and roll them into balls, placing them onto a greased and lightly floured cookie sheet.
- With your finger, create a small well in the center of each ball, ready to be filled with your choice of jelly, preserves, or creamy peanut butter.
- Get creative and experiment with different fillings to tantalize your taste buds with a variety of flavors.
- Bake the cookies at 350 degrees Fahrenheit in a preheated oven for 12-13 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
- Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, these Jelly Butterballs are ready to be enjoyed, whether as a delightful dessert, a sweet snack, or a thoughtful gift for friends and family. With their irresistible flavor and simple preparation, they’re sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire, bringing joy and sweetness to every occasion. So go ahead, indulge in the buttery goodness of these heavenly treats and savor the simple pleasures of homemade baking.
