Raspberry Almond Thumbprints

If you love cookies that are buttery, rich, and filled with a sweet pop of fruit, you’re going to adore these Raspberry Almond Thumbprints. They’re a perfect blend of crispy edges and soft centers, filled with a dollop of tangy raspberry preserves and finished with a delicate hint of almonds. Trust me you’re going to love how festive, charming, and utterly delicious these cookies are. Whether you serve them at a holiday gathering or simply enjoy them with a warm cup of tea, these thumbprints bring a little bit of happiness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love Raspberry Almond Thumbprints

These cookies aren’t just a treat they’re a small piece of pure happiness. Whether you’re a veteran baker or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe a breeze, and the result is a plate of charming cookies that everyone will love. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Great for holidays, parties, or simply a sweet treat at home.
Budget-Friendly: Few ingredients, maximum flavor.
Quick and Easy: Few minutes of prep, a short bake, and you’re done.
Customizable: Try different jams or nuts to match your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone from kids to adults will love their buttery texture and sweet center.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic of Raspberry Almond Thumbprints made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

All-purpose Flour: Gives the cookies their structure.
Softened Butter: Adds rich flavor and a buttery texture.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough just enough.
Almond Extract: Adds a warm, nutty note to the cookies.
Raspberry Jam or Preserves: The sweet, tangy center that makes these cookies a standout.
Sliced or Chopped almonds (optional): Provide a lovely texture contrast.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below).

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create these charming cookies:

Prepare Your Dough:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Combine Ingredients:

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the almond extract.

Add Flour:

Gradually add in the flour and combine until a soft dough forms.

Shape Cookies:

Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in size. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Make Thumbnails:

Using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon, press a small indent into the center of each ball.

Fill:

Spoon a small amount of raspberry preserves into each indent. Sprinkle chopped almonds on top if you like.

Bake:

Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are set but not browned.

Cool:

Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes on the sheet, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 24 cookies
Calories per serving: 80

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Raspberry Almond Thumbprints

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea.
• Stack them in a clear jar for a charming gift.
• Display them on a festive plate for holiday entertaining.
• Sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for an elegant finishing touch.
• Combine with a plate of assorted cookies for a charming holiday cookie swap.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Chill the dough if it’s too soft to handle.
• Try different jams or preserves apricot or blackberry are wonderful alternatives.
• Toast the almonds first for a richer flavor.
• Small to medium thumbprints bake more evenly.
• Be careful not to overbake you want them soft and buttery.

FAQ’s

1 Can I use a different kind of preserves instead of raspberry?
Of course! Strawberry, apricot, or blackberry all work beautifully.

2 Do I need to chill the dough first?
If the dough is too soft to handle, chill it for 30 minutes in the fridge.

3 How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay fresh for up to 5 days.

4 Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

5 Are these cookies nut-free without almonds?
Yes simply omit the almonds if you want a nut-free treat.

6 Can I use margarine instead of butter?
For best flavor and texture, we recommend using real butter.

7 Why do I need to chill the dough if it’s soft?
Chilling makes it easier to handle and prevents spreading during baking.

8 Could I add a powdered sugar glaze on top instead?
Certainly! A simple powdered sugar glaze adds a nice finishing touch.

9 Are these cookies suitable for freezing after baking?
Yes just allow them to cool first and then store in a freezer-safe container.

10 Why do we put a thumbprint in the center?
The small well holds the jelly and prevents it from spreading all over the cookie.

Conclusion

Raspberry Almond Thumbprints are a charming blend of buttery softness and sweet fruit filling perfect for holiday cookies, afternoon treats, or a thoughtful gift. Whatever the occasion, these cookies bring a little bit of happiness in every bite. So grab your ingredients, turn on your oven, and let’s get baking!

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