Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies are a delightful combination of rich, chocolatey cookies and tangy raspberry jam. These cookies start with a simple chocolate dough, made with softened butter, cocoa powder, and just the right amount of sugar for a balanced sweetness. The cookies are baked until just set, resulting in a soft and slightly chewy texture. Once cooled, they are filled with a layer of raspberry jam, which adds a burst of fruity flavor that perfectly complements the chocolate. These sandwich cookies are ideal for sharing with friends and family, or as a special treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the tangy sweetness of raspberry jam. The cookies themselves are made from a simple dough that includes softened butter, cocoa powder, and a blend of granulated and brown sugars. This creates a soft and tender cookie with a deep chocolate flavor. The raspberry jam, which is sandwiched between two cookies, adds a bright contrast that enhances the overall taste. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you're serving them at a party, enjoying them with a cup of tea, or sharing them with friends and family.
INGREDIENTS
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup, forms the base of the cookie dough, giving it structure.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 1/2 cup, adds rich chocolate flavor to the cookies.
- Baking powder: 1/2 tsp, helps the cookies rise slightly and maintain a soft texture.
- Salt: 1/4 tsp, enhances the flavor of the cookies by balancing the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (softened): 1/2 cup, creates a tender and rich cookie dough.
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup, sweetens the cookies and helps them brown during baking.
- Brown sugar: 1/4 cup, adds a deeper sweetness and moisture to the cookies.
- Large egg: 1, binds the ingredients together and adds moisture to the dough.
- Vanilla extract: 1/2 tsp, adds a subtle flavor that complements the chocolate.
- Raspberry jam: 1/4 cup, used as the filling between the cookies, providing a tangy contrast to the chocolate.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 4:
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Step 5:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Step 6:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set but still soft in the center. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Step 8:
- Once cooled, spread a teaspoon of raspberry jam on the bottom of half of the cookies and top with the remaining cookies to form sandwiches.
Serving and Storage Tips
- These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, you can bake the cookies for an additional 1-2 minutes. Just be sure to watch them closely to avoid over-baking.
Helpful Notes
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the raspberry jam before spreading it on the cookies. The citrus will brighten the overall flavor of the cookies.
- If you don't have raspberry jam, strawberry or blackberry jam are excellent alternatives that will still pair beautifully with the chocolate cookies.
- To make the cookies more festive, you can drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the top of the assembled sandwiches. This adds a decorative touch and an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Mary Berry suggests using high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor. The richness of the cocoa will really shine through in these cookies.
- Chef Dominique Ansel recommends chilling the dough slightly before baking to help the cookies keep their shape and avoid spreading too much.
- Chef Nigella Lawson advises making a double batch of these cookies because they tend to disappear quickly once served!
The Perfect Chocolate Raspberry Combination
Chocolate and raspberry is a classic flavor combination, and these sandwich cookies are a perfect way to enjoy it. The richness of the chocolate cookie pairs beautifully with the tart sweetness of the raspberry jam, creating a balanced and satisfying treat. These cookies are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a great choice for both experienced bakers and beginners. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, these Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies are sure to be a hit.
Customizing Your Sandwich Cookies
One of the best things about these sandwich cookies is how easily they can be customized. You can experiment with different types of jam, add a layer of chocolate ganache, or even sprinkle a bit of sea salt on the cookies before baking for an added flavor twist. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a cookie that’s uniquely your own. No matter how you choose to make them, these cookies are guaranteed to be delicious and satisfying.
FAQs
Can I use different types of jam for these cookies?
Yes, you can use any type of jam you prefer, such as strawberry, blackberry, or even apricot. Each will give a slightly different flavor profile to the cookies, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination.
How should I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the unfilled cookies and assemble them with jam just before serving.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is designed for baking. Just be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?
To prevent spreading, make sure your butter is softened but not too warm, and consider chilling the dough for 10-15 minutes before baking. This will help the cookies hold their shape in the oven.
Can I add other flavors to the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can add a pinch of cinnamon, espresso powder, or even a bit of orange zest to the dough for a unique twist on the classic chocolate flavor.
Summary
These Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies are the perfect treat for any chocolate lover. The cookies themselves are rich and tender, with a deep chocolate flavor that is balanced by the sweetness of granulated and brown sugars. The filling, a simple layer of raspberry jam, adds a bright and tangy contrast that makes each bite more delicious than the last. Easy to make and beautiful to serve, these cookies are ideal for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying them on your own, these sandwich cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.