Raspberry thumbprint cookies are delightful little treats that bring joy with every bite. These charming cookies have a buttery base and a sweet raspberry jam filling, making them perfect for any gathering. Kids love them, and they are easy to make, meaning they can be a fun baking project for everyone. The cookies’ unique shape, with a small indentation filled with jam, makes them visually appealing and festive for any occasion. They are also a wonderful way to enjoy fresh raspberries or extend the flavor of summer fruits into the colder months.
Whether you are preparing snacks for a party, a family get-together, or simply craving something sweet, raspberry thumbprint cookies are sure to please anyone. They are full of flavor and can be paired with tea or coffee for a lovely afternoon snack. The best part is that they are simple to make and require only a few ingredients. Ready to whip up a batch of these delicious cookies?
Why make this recipe
Making raspberry thumbprint cookies is not just about enjoying a sweet treat; it is a delightful experience filled with the joy of baking. These cookies are simple enough for beginners and still impressive to share with family and friends. The combination of buttery cookie dough and tart raspberry jam creates a wonderful flavor balance that is hard to resist. Baking these cookies can also be a fun activity to do with children, allowing them to get creative with shaping the dough and filling the cookies with their favorite jam.
Additionally, these cookies are versatile. You can use different flavors of jam, such as strawberry, apricot, or even chocolate, to match your taste. Making your own cookies at home also allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring they are fresh and free from preservatives. When you take a bite of a homemade raspberry thumbprint cookie, you appreciate the love and effort that went into making it. Plus, sharing your freshly baked cookies with others can strengthen bonds and create memorable moments. All these reasons make raspberry thumbprint cookies a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a sweet treat.
How to make Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
To make raspberry thumbprint cookies, you will need the following ingredients: 1 cup of unsalted butter (softened), 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 egg yolk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. You will also need 2 cups of all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Finally, for the signature filling, grab some raspberry jam, about 1/2 cup will work well.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. Then, mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract, combining well. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.
Next, roll the dough into small balls, roughly one inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, allowing some space in between. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, create an indentation in the center of each cookie. Fill each indentation with about a teaspoon of raspberry jam. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Your delicious raspberry thumbprint cookies are ready to be enjoyed!
How to serve Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
Raspberry thumbprint cookies are lovely on their own, but they can be enhanced with a few simple serving ideas. A great way to serve them is on a decorative plate, making them the centerpiece of a dessert table. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, creating a cozy snack time experience for you and your loved ones.
For special occasions or gatherings, consider dusting the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. This adds a visually appealing contrast against the vibrant raspberry jam and gives a hint of sweetness. If you like, arrange a few cookies on a small dessert stand alongside other treats, such as brownies or mini cupcakes. This will create an inviting dessert display.
Additionally, you can serve these cookies at picnics or outdoor events. Their shape makes them easy to transport and share. When enjoying these cookies, take the time to savor each bite, appreciating the delightful flavor and the effort put into making them.
How to store Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
Storing your raspberry thumbprint cookies correctly will help keep them fresh and delicious. First, allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before packing them away. Once cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container, layering them with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. This will help keep their shape and texture intact.
If you want to enjoy them later, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Alternatively, they can also be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, lay the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, where they can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature for a few hours.
Keep in mind that while freezing can change the texture slightly, the flavor will remain delightful. Enjoy your cookies fresh or stored, and share them with everyone!
Tips to make Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
- Chill the dough: If the dough feels too soft to shape, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to form the cookie balls without them flattening too much.
- Use quality jam: Pick a good-quality raspberry jam for the filling. It makes a significant difference in taste! You can also make your own jam if you prefer a fresher option.
- Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to try other jams or add flavors like lemon zest or almond extract to the dough for variation. This can lead to exciting new combinations.
- Check baking time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. Ovens can vary, and baking times may need to be adjusted based on your oven.
- Let cool properly: Always let the cookies cool before storing or serving them. This prevents them from becoming soggy and helps maintain their texture.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, consider using different types of jam, such as apricot, strawberry, or even nut butters. For a healthier alternative, you can use sugar-free jam or add oats to the dough for a heartier texture. Another fun variation is to dip half of the cooled cookies in melted chocolate for an extra sweet treat!
FAQs
Can I use fresh raspberries instead of jam?
While fresh raspberries can be used, they will not hold their shape the same way jam does. The cookies might end up runny, so it’s best to stick with jam for this recipe.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free raspberry thumbprint cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Always check the blend for ingredients or additives that might not work in your recipes.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make more cookies. Just be sure to adjust your baking sheets and oven space accordingly!
Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful buttery cookies filled with sweet raspberry jam, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 pinch salt
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Add dry ingredients to the butter mixture to form a soft dough.
- Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and create an indentation in the center of each cookie.
- Fill each indentation with raspberry jam.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Notes
For a lighter texture, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling into balls.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cookies, thumbprint cookies, raspberry cookies, dessert, baking
