Jam Pennies

Jam Pennies

A classic British tea-time treat of buttered bread spread with jam, cut into small 'penny' rounds. Light, sweet, and perfect for an afternoon spread.

Prep

10 min

Total

10 min

Serves

4 (makes 16 pennies)

Difficulty

Easy

Recipe ingredients

• •8 slices soft white sandwich bread, crusts on, as traditionally used
• •60 g (¼ cup (4 tbsp)) unsalted butter, softened, slightly salted is also acceptable
• •80 g (about 3 tbsp) raspberry jam, strawberry or blackcurrant jam also traditional; use a seedless variety if preferred

Steps

1. 1 Lay the bread slices flat on a board. Using a butter knife, spread the softened butter evenly over one side of each slice, going right to the edges so the butter seals the crust and keeps the bread from going stale.
2. 2 Spread the jam in an even layer over the buttered side of 4 of the slices (the butter layer helps keep the jam from soaking into the bread).
3. 3 Top each jam-covered slice with a second slice, buttered side down, to make 4 sandwiches.
4. 4 Using a small round cutter about 4 cm (1½ in) across (or the rim of a glass), press firmly through each sandwich to cut out 'penny' rounds. A slight twist helps cut cleanly through the crusts.
5. 5 Arrange the jam pennies on a plate or cake stand and serve immediately, or cover with a clean tea towel until needed. Best eaten the same day.