These Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies are a perfect blend of buttery sweetness and fruity flavor, making them ideal for holidays or any time of the year. The cookie base is soft with a slight crisp on the edges, filled with luscious raspberry jam, and drizzled with a light vanilla icing. They’re easy to make and add a beautiful touch to dessert spreads with their vibrant color and delicious flavor. Whether served with tea or as a part of a festive holiday tray, these cookies are sure to be enjoyed by everyone.
Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies are a classic treat that’s easy to make and beautiful to serve. These cookies have a buttery, lightly sweet base with a delicious raspberry jam center, finished with a drizzle of vanilla icing. Perfect for any occasion, especially holidays, these cookies are a hit with kids and adults alike. Serve them slightly chilled for the best flavor and to allow the icing to set.
INGREDIENTS
- Butter: 1 cup, softened for cookies
- Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup, divided for cookies
- Egg: 1 large, for binding
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for flavor
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups, for cookie dough structure
- Baking powder: 1 tsp, for leavening
- Salt: 1/4 tsp, to balance sweetness
- Seedless raspberry jam: 2/3 cup, for filling
- Confectioners' sugar: 1/2 cup, for icing
- Vanilla extract: 1/2 tsp, for icing flavor
- Water: 1 1/2 tsp, for icing consistency
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Step 2:
- Add the egg and beat until fully incorporated.
- Step 3:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Step 4:
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
- Step 5:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 6:
- Place the remaining 1/4 cup sugar in a small dish.
- Step 7:
- Roll chilled dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in the sugar and place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheets.
- Step 8:
- Use your thumb or the end of a wooden spoon handle to create a small indentation in each cookie.
- Step 9:
- Bake for 13-16 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet.
- Step 10:
- Melt the raspberry jam in a small bowl, then spoon into the center of each baked cookie.
- Step 11:
- To make the icing, mix confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract, and water until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled cookies.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for freshness.
- Serve slightly chilled for the best texture and to keep the icing set.
Helpful Notes
- Try different jams, like apricot or blackberry, for a variety of flavors.
- If you prefer a thicker icing, add more confectioners' sugar to adjust the consistency.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Tip: Use a piping bag for precise icing drizzle over the cookies.
- Chef Tip: Roll cookies in turbinado sugar instead of granulated sugar for extra crunch.
The Classic Appeal of Thumbprint Cookies
These raspberry thumbprint cookies bring a timeless touch to any dessert spread. Perfect for the holidays, they’re both beautiful and delicious, making them ideal for sharing or gifting.
FAQs
Can I use fresh raspberry puree instead of jam?
Yes, but fresh puree may not set as firmly. Consider mixing with a small amount of sugar and cornstarch.
How do I keep the cookies soft?
Store them in an airtight container, and avoid stacking if possible to keep the icing intact.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, freeze them without the icing. Thaw and drizzle with icing before serving.
Summary
Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies combine buttery, lightly sweet cookie dough with a delicious raspberry jam center and a vanilla icing drizzle, making them a perfect holiday or year-round treat. Their classic thumbprint shape and fruity filling make them a lovely addition to any dessert spread. Serve these cookies slightly chilled to enjoy the full blend of flavors and the soft, chewy texture.