Super Easy Stuffed Bow Tie Cookies Recipe

Stuffed Bow Tie Cookies aren’t just your average treats, they’re cute, buttery, and filled with a sweet surprise. Imagine a crispy, golden cookie shaped like a little bow, each one filled with a dollop of apricot jam or hazelnut paste. These dainty delights are perfect for sharing at parties, adding flair to dessert tables, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea. Bow cookies are best described as a snack, but with their elegance and versatility, they can make a charming dessert for any occasion, from birthday teas to holiday gatherings.

What Are Bow Cookies?

Bow cookies have roots in European pastry traditions, where pastries and cookies are often shaped to reflect elegance. Bow cookies are charming, bite-sized treats crafted from buttery, flaky dough and shaped to resemble a delicate bow tie.

Their signature bow shape isn’t just for looks, it’s also practical, keeping the filling snug inside while creating a perfectly portioned bite. The combination of buttery dough and a choice of fruity apricot jam or nutty hazelnut paste gives you a variety of flavors, from crumbly to smooth and sweet and makes it a crowd pleaser.

These cookies are a real hit for anyone who loves a blend of textures and a touch of whimsy in their treats. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make, just mix, roll, fill, and bake.

Pro Tips for the Best Bow Cookies

• Use cold butter straight from the fridge for a crumbly dough that’s easy to work with. Warm butter can make the dough too soft and sticky.
• Aim to roll out the dough to about 3-4 mm thick. Too thin, and your cookies might not hold their shape; too thick, and they’ll lose that delicate crunch.
• Ensure you properly seal the deal. When pinching the dough to form the bow, make sure it’s pressed well to avoid any “unraveling” in the oven.
• Keep an eye on the cookies during the baking process Aim for a light golden brown color, not dark brown as this signifies that they are overbaked.
• Nothing is stopping you from experimenting with fillings. Apricot jam and hazelnut paste are classic, but try strawberry jam, chocolate spread, or almond paste for a personalized twist.

How Can I Make the Dough Consistent?

Using cold butter and minimal handling will help keep the dough light and consistent. Overworking can make it tougher, so mix just until everything comes together.

Can I Freeze Unbaked Bow Tie Cookies?

Yes, you can. Place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a sealed container. Ensure you defrost them before popping them into the oven to ensure they bake evenly.

Can I Make These Bow Tie Cookies?

Yes, these bow cookies can be made ahead of time! The dough can be prepared, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerated for up to 2 days before rolling and baking. Baked cookies can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, keeping them fresh.

Can I Use a Different Filling?

Yes! Bow cookies are versatile, so feel free to use other jams, chocolate, or nut spreads that you enjoy. Just keep the amount moderate to prevent overflow.

Some More Stuffed Cookies You'll Adore!

Italian Filled Cookies

Ricotta Chocolate Filled Cookies

Apple Cinnamon Shortbread Cookies

Cream Cheese Stuffed Chocolate Cookies

4-Ingredient Puff Pastry Cookies

Maamoul Cookies

How to Store Leftovers?

Bow cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze any leftovers by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag, layering parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature and warm them gently in the oven for a freshly-baked taste.

How to Make Bow Tie Cookies

In a large bowl, mix the flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt until they’re perfectly combined and ready for the next step.

Toss in those chilly cubes of butter and, using just your fingertips, work them gently into the flour until your mix transforms into coarse, buttery crumbs. Then, crack in one egg and knead the dough just until it becomes smooth and holds together.

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to a delicate 3-4 mm thickness, like a smooth pastry sheet. Grab a round cutter and press out perfect little circles, about 5 cm in diameter, ready to be transformed into charming bows.

Place a teaspoon of apricot jam or hazelnut paste in the center of each circle. Gently pinch the sides to form a bow shape, pressing firmly to keep it in place.

Arrange the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 180°C/350°F for 12-15 minutes, until golden and slightly crisp. And voilà, a platter of beautiful bow cookies, ready to wow friends and family with their delightful look and irresistible taste.