Have you ever tasted a cookie that perfectly balances sweetness and texture? These Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies are that delightful treat. Soft, buttery, and filled with vibrant raspberry jam, they’re as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the taste buds.
Whether you’re baking for the holidays or simply craving something sweet, this easy recipe is your go-to.
Quick Recipe Snapshot
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 20 cookies
- Skill Level: Beginner
Ingredients for Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam (or your preferred fruit preserve)
Optional garnish: powdered sugar, white chocolate drizzle
How to Make Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Flour
Mix in the vanilla extract. Gradually add flour while mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Scoop out 1-tablespoon portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Create Indentations
Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press into the center of each ball to create a well.
Step 6: Fill with Jam
Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of raspberry jam into each indentation.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
Nutritional values are approximate.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Thumbprint Cookies
- Chill Your Dough: If the dough is too soft, chill it for 30 minutes to prevent spreading.
- Use High-Quality Jam: Go for homemade or good-quality store-bought jam for maximum flavor.
- Experiment With Fillings: Try strawberry, apricot, or lemon curd for variety.
- Dust or Drizzle: Add powdered sugar or white chocolate after cooling for extra flair.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Fix |
| Using old ingredients | Always use fresh flour and real butter |
| Overmixing the dough | Mix just until ingredients are combined |
| Not chilling soft dough | Chill for 30 minutes if too sticky |
| Overfilling the jam well | Use only 1/2 to 1 tsp jam to avoid overflow |
| Baking unevenly | Preheat oven fully and use middle rack |
Serving Suggestions
- With Tea or Coffee: A perfect afternoon snack.
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with vanilla ice cream.
- On a Dessert Platter: Pair with fruit, chocolate, or pastries for variety.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Make-Ahead Dough: Prepare and refrigerate dough up to 2 days in advance.
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze dough balls or baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Recipe Variations
- Peanut Butter Thumbprints: Use peanut butter cookie dough and fill with jam.
- Chocolate Ganache Centers: Replace jam with melted chocolate.
- Nutty Edges: Roll dough balls in chopped nuts before baking.
Try our Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies or Classic Butter Cookies next!
FAQs
✅ What makes Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies special?
Their soft texture, rich buttery flavor, and vibrant jam center create a delightful bite every time.
✅ Can I use other types of jam?
Absolutely! Strawberry, blueberry, peach, or even fig jam work beautifully.
✅ How do I store Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies?
In an airtight container at room temperature for 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
✅ Are these cookies gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Conclusion
These Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies are a classic, crowd-pleasing treat that combines simplicity with elegance. Perfect for holidays, bake sales, or just a sweet afternoon indulgence, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. Try it today and enjoy a homemade delight that’s as easy as it is irresistible.
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