Raspberry Almond Thumbprint Cookies Delightful Treat

by
To make these cookies, you need some key ingredients. Here’s the list: - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened - 3/4 cup granulated sugar - 2 teaspoons almond extract - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup powdered sugar - 1/2 cup raspberry jam (or tart raspberry preserves) - Sliced almonds for garnish Each ingredient plays a role in flavor and texture. The butter gives richness. Sugar adds sweetness. Almond extract brings in that lovely nutty flavor. The flour forms the base. The jam gives a fruity finish. Sliced almonds add a nice crunch. You can make your cookies even prettier and tastier! Here are some fun ideas: - Fresh raspberries for color - Mint leaves for a fresh touch - A dusting of powdered sugar for sweetness These garnishes make your cookies pop and look stunning on a platter. If you need to swap ingredients, here are some ideas: - Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. - Maple syrup can replace granulated sugar for a natural sweetener. - Any fruit jam can replace raspberry jam if you prefer. These changes keep the spirit of the cookies while adding your flair. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the cookies bake evenly. 2. Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. 3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar. Mix until it’s light and fluffy. This takes about 3 to 4 minutes. 4. Now, add in 2 teaspoons of almond extract and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix well so that all flavors blend together. 5. Gradually stir in 2 cups of all-purpose flour. The dough will be soft but not sticky. Don’t overmix; just combine until it’s smooth. 6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the lined baking sheet, leaving space between each ball. 7. Using your thumb or the back of a measuring teaspoon, make a small indentation in each dough ball. This is where the jam will go. 8. Fill the indentation with about 1 teaspoon of raspberry jam. Make sure to use enough to fill it nicely. 9. For a touch of crunch, gently press a few sliced almonds around the edge of the jam in each cookie. This adds flavor and looks nice too. 10. Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn lightly golden. 11. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This helps them firm up. 12. After 5 minutes, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This keeps them from getting soggy. 13. For a delightful presentation, arrange the cookies on a decorative platter. Dust them lightly with powdered sugar. You can also garnish with fresh raspberries or mint leaves for color. Enjoy! If your cookies spread too much, check your butter. It should be softened, not melted. If your dough is too dry, add a little milk. If the cookies are hard, you may have overbaked them. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes. The dough should be soft but not sticky. After mixing the flour, let it rest for a few minutes. This helps it firm up. If you find the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour. Use a light touch when rolling the dough into balls. For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon. You can also substitute some of the flour with almond flour for a nuttier taste. If you like a bit of saltiness, sprinkle sea salt on top before baking. This can enhance the sweet and tart notes of the raspberry jam. Pro Tips Chill the Dough: For easier handling, chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before rolling into balls. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Use Quality Jam: Opt for high-quality raspberry jam or preserves to enhance the flavor of your cookies. The better the jam, the tastier the final product! Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Ovens can vary, so check the cookies at the 10-minute mark to avoid over-baking. Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and transfer to a freezer bag. {{image_2}} You can change the flavor of your cookies by using different fruit preserves. Try using strawberry, apricot, or even blueberry. Each fruit brings a new taste that pairs well with almond. If you choose a sweeter preserve, you might want to reduce the sugar a bit. This way, the cookies stay balanced and delicious. If you have nut allergies, you can still enjoy these cookies. Use sunflower seed butter instead of butter to keep the dough rich. Skip the sliced almonds for garnish. You can also add seeds like pumpkin or chia for crunch. These changes keep the cookies safe and tasty. For gluten-free cookies, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum. This helps the cookies hold together well. You can also use almond flour, but be careful. Almond flour can make the cookies dense. Adjust the baking time, as gluten-free cookies may bake faster. Enjoy your gluten-free raspberry almond thumbprint cookies! After baking, let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This step helps them set. Then, transfer them to a wire rack. Cooling on the rack allows air to flow around them. This prevents sogginess and keeps them crisp. Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. If your kitchen is warm, consider refrigerating them. This keeps the cookies tasty and firm. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they don't touch. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours. You can use vanilla extract instead of almond extract. Vanilla gives a nice flavor too. You can also try using hazelnut or coconut extract. These will change the taste a bit but will still be yummy. To make these cookies vegan, swap the butter for a plant-based option. You can use vegan butter or coconut oil. Replace the granulated sugar with coconut sugar or another vegan sugar. Make sure your jam is also vegan-friendly. Yes, you can use other types of jam. Try strawberry, apricot, or even blueberry jam. Each flavor adds a different twist to the cookies. Just make sure the jam is thick enough to hold its shape. The cookies are done when their edges are lightly golden. Check them around 12 minutes into baking. They should look set and not too soft in the center. Let them cool slightly before moving them. Raspberry almond thumbprint cookies are simple and fun to make. We covered the main ingredients, optional toppings, and substitutions. The baking steps help ensure perfect results. I shared tips for troubleshooting and enhancing flavor. You can even try different fruit preserves or make nut-free or gluten-free versions. Store them carefully to keep them fresh. With these insights, you can bake delicious cookies every time. Enjoy the sweet journey of baking and impress your friends and family!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s easy and delightful, you’ll love Raspberry Almond Thumbprint Cookies! These tasty bites combine the rich flavor of almond with bright raspberry jam, making them perfect for any occasion. In this blog post, I’ll share my favorite ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make your cookies turn out just right. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple recipe!

Jump to Recipe

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Delicious Flavor Combination: The combination of raspberry and almond creates a delightful contrast that is both sweet and nutty.
  2. Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
  3. Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are ideal for holiday gatherings, tea parties, or simply as a sweet treat at home.
  4. Beautiful Presentation: With their vibrant raspberry centers and almond garnishes, these cookies are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Raspberry Almond Thumbprint Cookies

To make these cookies, you need some key ingredients. Here’s the list:

– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

– 3/4 cup granulated sugar

– 2 teaspoons almond extract

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup powdered sugar

– 1/2 cup raspberry jam (or tart raspberry preserves)

– Sliced almonds for garnish

Each ingredient plays a role in flavor and texture. The butter gives richness. Sugar adds sweetness. Almond extract brings in that lovely nutty flavor. The flour forms the base. The jam gives a fruity finish. Sliced almonds add a nice crunch.

Optional Garnishes and Toppings

You can make your cookies even prettier and tastier! Here are some fun ideas:

– Fresh raspberries for color

– Mint leaves for a fresh touch

– A dusting of powdered sugar for sweetness

These garnishes make your cookies pop and look stunning on a platter.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to swap ingredients, here are some ideas:

– Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

– Maple syrup can replace granulated sugar for a natural sweetener.

– Any fruit jam can replace raspberry jam if you prefer.

These changes keep the spirit of the cookies while adding your flair.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the cookies bake evenly.

2. Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar. Mix until it’s light and fluffy. This takes about 3 to 4 minutes.

4. Now, add in 2 teaspoons of almond extract and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix well so that all flavors blend together.

5. Gradually stir in 2 cups of all-purpose flour. The dough will be soft but not sticky. Don’t overmix; just combine until it’s smooth.

6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the lined baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.

Baking Process

7. Using your thumb or the back of a measuring teaspoon, make a small indentation in each dough ball. This is where the jam will go.

8. Fill the indentation with about 1 teaspoon of raspberry jam. Make sure to use enough to fill it nicely.

9. For a touch of crunch, gently press a few sliced almonds around the edge of the jam in each cookie. This adds flavor and looks nice too.

10. Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn lightly golden.

Cooling and Serving Tips

11. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This helps them firm up.

12. After 5 minutes, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This keeps them from getting soggy.

13. For a delightful presentation, arrange the cookies on a decorative platter. Dust them lightly with powdered sugar. You can also garnish with fresh raspberries or mint leaves for color. Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cookies spread too much, check your butter. It should be softened, not melted. If your dough is too dry, add a little milk. If the cookies are hard, you may have overbaked them. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes.

How to Achieve the Perfect Consistency

The dough should be soft but not sticky. After mixing the flour, let it rest for a few minutes. This helps it firm up. If you find the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour. Use a light touch when rolling the dough into balls.

Enhancement Suggestions for Flavor and Texture

For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon. You can also substitute some of the flour with almond flour for a nuttier taste. If you like a bit of saltiness, sprinkle sea salt on top before baking. This can enhance the sweet and tart notes of the raspberry jam.

Pro Tips

  1. Chill the Dough: For easier handling, chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before rolling into balls. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
  2. Use Quality Jam: Opt for high-quality raspberry jam or preserves to enhance the flavor of your cookies. The better the jam, the tastier the final product!
  3. Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Ovens can vary, so check the cookies at the 10-minute mark to avoid over-baking.
  4. Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and transfer to a freezer bag.

Variations

Alternative Fruit Preserves

You can change the flavor of your cookies by using different fruit preserves. Try using strawberry, apricot, or even blueberry. Each fruit brings a new taste that pairs well with almond. If you choose a sweeter preserve, you might want to reduce the sugar a bit. This way, the cookies stay balanced and delicious.

Nut-Free Options

If you have nut allergies, you can still enjoy these cookies. Use sunflower seed butter instead of butter to keep the dough rich. Skip the sliced almonds for garnish. You can also add seeds like pumpkin or chia for crunch. These changes keep the cookies safe and tasty.

Gluten-Free Adaptations

For gluten-free cookies, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum. This helps the cookies hold together well. You can also use almond flour, but be careful. Almond flour can make the cookies dense. Adjust the baking time, as gluten-free cookies may bake faster. Enjoy your gluten-free raspberry almond thumbprint cookies!

Storage Info

Proper Cooling Techniques

After baking, let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This step helps them set. Then, transfer them to a wire rack. Cooling on the rack allows air to flow around them. This prevents sogginess and keeps them crisp.

Best Storage Practices

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. If your kitchen is warm, consider refrigerating them. This keeps the cookies tasty and firm.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they don’t touch. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.

FAQs

What can I use instead of almond extract?

You can use vanilla extract instead of almond extract. Vanilla gives a nice flavor too. You can also try using hazelnut or coconut extract. These will change the taste a bit but will still be yummy.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

To make these cookies vegan, swap the butter for a plant-based option. You can use vegan butter or coconut oil. Replace the granulated sugar with coconut sugar or another vegan sugar. Make sure your jam is also vegan-friendly.

Can I use other types of jam for thumbprints?

Yes, you can use other types of jam. Try strawberry, apricot, or even blueberry jam. Each flavor adds a different twist to the cookies. Just make sure the jam is thick enough to hold its shape.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when their edges are lightly golden. Check them around 12 minutes into baking. They should look set and not too soft in the center. Let them cool slightly before moving them.

Raspberry almond thumbprint cookies are simple and fun to make. We covered the main ingredients, optional toppings, and substitutions. The baking steps help ensure perfect results. I shared tips for troubleshooting and enhancing flavor. You can even try different fruit preserves or make nut-free or gluten-free versions. Store them carefully to keep them fresh. With these insights, you can bake delicious cookies every time. Enjoy the sweet journey of baking and impress your friends and famil

To make these cookies, you need some key ingredients. Here’s the list: - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened - 3/4 cup granulated sugar - 2 teaspoons almond extract - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup powdered sugar - 1/2 cup raspberry jam (or tart raspberry preserves) - Sliced almonds for garnish Each ingredient plays a role in flavor and texture. The butter gives richness. Sugar adds sweetness. Almond extract brings in that lovely nutty flavor. The flour forms the base. The jam gives a fruity finish. Sliced almonds add a nice crunch. You can make your cookies even prettier and tastier! Here are some fun ideas: - Fresh raspberries for color - Mint leaves for a fresh touch - A dusting of powdered sugar for sweetness These garnishes make your cookies pop and look stunning on a platter. If you need to swap ingredients, here are some ideas: - Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. - Maple syrup can replace granulated sugar for a natural sweetener. - Any fruit jam can replace raspberry jam if you prefer. These changes keep the spirit of the cookies while adding your flair. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the cookies bake evenly. 2. Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. 3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar. Mix until it’s light and fluffy. This takes about 3 to 4 minutes. 4. Now, add in 2 teaspoons of almond extract and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix well so that all flavors blend together. 5. Gradually stir in 2 cups of all-purpose flour. The dough will be soft but not sticky. Don’t overmix; just combine until it’s smooth. 6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the lined baking sheet, leaving space between each ball. 7. Using your thumb or the back of a measuring teaspoon, make a small indentation in each dough ball. This is where the jam will go. 8. Fill the indentation with about 1 teaspoon of raspberry jam. Make sure to use enough to fill it nicely. 9. For a touch of crunch, gently press a few sliced almonds around the edge of the jam in each cookie. This adds flavor and looks nice too. 10. Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn lightly golden. 11. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This helps them firm up. 12. After 5 minutes, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This keeps them from getting soggy. 13. For a delightful presentation, arrange the cookies on a decorative platter. Dust them lightly with powdered sugar. You can also garnish with fresh raspberries or mint leaves for color. Enjoy! If your cookies spread too much, check your butter. It should be softened, not melted. If your dough is too dry, add a little milk. If the cookies are hard, you may have overbaked them. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes. The dough should be soft but not sticky. After mixing the flour, let it rest for a few minutes. This helps it firm up. If you find the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour. Use a light touch when rolling the dough into balls. For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon. You can also substitute some of the flour with almond flour for a nuttier taste. If you like a bit of saltiness, sprinkle sea salt on top before baking. This can enhance the sweet and tart notes of the raspberry jam. Pro Tips Chill the Dough: For easier handling, chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before rolling into balls. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Use Quality Jam: Opt for high-quality raspberry jam or preserves to enhance the flavor of your cookies. The better the jam, the tastier the final product! Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Ovens can vary, so check the cookies at the 10-minute mark to avoid over-baking. Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and transfer to a freezer bag. {{image_2}} You can change the flavor of your cookies by using different fruit preserves. Try using strawberry, apricot, or even blueberry. Each fruit brings a new taste that pairs well with almond. If you choose a sweeter preserve, you might want to reduce the sugar a bit. This way, the cookies stay balanced and delicious. If you have nut allergies, you can still enjoy these cookies. Use sunflower seed butter instead of butter to keep the dough rich. Skip the sliced almonds for garnish. You can also add seeds like pumpkin or chia for crunch. These changes keep the cookies safe and tasty. For gluten-free cookies, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum. This helps the cookies hold together well. You can also use almond flour, but be careful. Almond flour can make the cookies dense. Adjust the baking time, as gluten-free cookies may bake faster. Enjoy your gluten-free raspberry almond thumbprint cookies! After baking, let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This step helps them set. Then, transfer them to a wire rack. Cooling on the rack allows air to flow around them. This prevents sogginess and keeps them crisp. Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. If your kitchen is warm, consider refrigerating them. This keeps the cookies tasty and firm. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they don't touch. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours. You can use vanilla extract instead of almond extract. Vanilla gives a nice flavor too. You can also try using hazelnut or coconut extract. These will change the taste a bit but will still be yummy. To make these cookies vegan, swap the butter for a plant-based option. You can use vegan butter or coconut oil. Replace the granulated sugar with coconut sugar or another vegan sugar. Make sure your jam is also vegan-friendly. Yes, you can use other types of jam. Try strawberry, apricot, or even blueberry jam. Each flavor adds a different twist to the cookies. Just make sure the jam is thick enough to hold its shape. The cookies are done when their edges are lightly golden. Check them around 12 minutes into baking. They should look set and not too soft in the center. Let them cool slightly before moving them. Raspberry almond thumbprint cookies are simple and fun to make. We covered the main ingredients, optional toppings, and substitutions. The baking steps help ensure perfect results. I shared tips for troubleshooting and enhancing flavor. You can even try different fruit preserves or make nut-free or gluten-free versions. Store them carefully to keep them fresh. With these insights, you can bake delicious cookies every time. Enjoy the sweet journey of baking and impress your friends and family!

Raspberry Almond Thumbprint Cookies

Delicious cookies with a raspberry jam filling and almond garnish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24
Calories 100 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3.75 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons almond extract
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup powdered sugar
  • 0.5 cup raspberry jam (or tart raspberry preserves)
  • to taste sliced almonds for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the almond extract and salt, mixing well to incorporate.
  • Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
  • Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
  • Using your thumb or the back of a measuring teaspoon, create a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
  • Fill each indentation with a teaspoon of raspberry jam.
  • Gently press a few sliced almonds around the edge of the jam in each cookie for added crunch and decoration.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  • Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant touch, and garnish with fresh raspberries or mint leaves for color.
Keyword almond, cookies, dessert, raspberry

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