Raspberry Almond Thumbprints are delightful cookies featuring a buttery almond base with a sweet raspberry jam filling. These cookies are perfect for holiday baking or any time you want a tasty, elegant treat.
Ingredients:
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely ground almonds (about 1 cup whole almonds, finely processed)
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam or preserves (store-bought or homemade)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine with ground almonds: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Stir in the finely ground almonds until evenly distributed.
Shape and Bake:
- Form cookies: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Create thumbprints: Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, make an indentation in the center of each dough ball.
- Fill with jam: Spoon a small amount of raspberry jam into each indentation.
- Add almonds: If desired, sprinkle the edges of each cookie with toasted sliced almonds for extra flavor and texture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Raspberry Almond Thumbprints:
- Finely ground almonds: Ensure the almonds are finely ground to integrate well into the dough and give a smooth texture to the cookies.
- Jam filling: Use a good quality raspberry jam or preserves for the best flavor. If the jam is too thick, you can gently warm it to make it easier to spoon into the cookies.
- Even baking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Delicious flavor combination: The nutty almond flavor pairs perfectly with the sweet and tart raspberry jam, creating a balanced and tasty treat.
- Elegant and versatile: These thumbprint cookies are perfect for holiday cookie trays, special occasions, or as a charming homemade gift.
- Easy to make: The recipe is simple and straightforward, making it a great option for both experienced bakers and beginners.
Enjoy making and indulging in these Raspberry Almond Thumbprints—a delightful treat that combines rich almond flavor with a sweet raspberry filling!