Raspberry Almond Thumbprints: A Buttery, Jam-Filled Delight for Every Occasion
Few baked treats capture the comforting charm of homemade cookies quite like raspberry almond thumbprints. With their tender, buttery texture, nutty aroma, and jewel-toned raspberry centers, these cookies feel both nostalgic and elegant at the same time. Often associated with holidays and special gatherings, raspberry almond thumbprints are just as perfect for an afternoon tea break or a cozy weekend baking session.
The contrast between the crisp edges, soft interior, and sweet-tart raspberry jam creates a balanced bite that appeals to both kids and adults. Almond flavor adds depth and warmth, elevating the cookie beyond an ordinary shortbread. Whether you are baking for loved ones, entertaining guests, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, raspberry almond thumbprints offer a timeless dessert that never goes out of style.
Ingredients Needed
The beauty of raspberry almond thumbprints lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 1 cup | 1,630 kcal |
| Granulated sugar | ⅔ cup | 520 kcal |
| Egg yolk | 1 large | 55 kcal |
| Almond extract | 1 tsp | 12 kcal |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | 910 kcal |
| Salt | ¼ tsp | 0 kcal |
| Raspberry jam | ½ cup | 260 kcal |
| Sliced or finely chopped almonds | ¼ cup | 210 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl until light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step ensures tender cookies.
- Mix in the egg yolk and almond extract, blending until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies delicate.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Create thumbprints by gently pressing your thumb or the back of a spoon into the center of each dough ball.
- Fill each indentation with about ½ teaspoon of raspberry jam.
- Sprinkle chopped almonds around the edges for added crunch and visual appeal.
- Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Cool completely on a wire rack before serving to allow the cookies to set properly.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Swap the jam with strawberry, apricot, or blackberry for a new flavor twist.
- Use vanilla extract instead of almond for a milder taste.
- Add citrus zest such as lemon or orange to brighten the flavor profile.
- Make them gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Drizzle with white chocolate after baking for a festive finishing touch.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Cookie) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120–140 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
Serving Suggestions
Raspberry almond thumbprints pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea, freshly brewed coffee, or a glass of cold milk. Arrange them on a dessert platter during holidays, serve them alongside ice cream for an elevated dessert, or package them in decorative boxes as thoughtful homemade gifts. Their vibrant color and elegant appearance make them ideal for festive tables and special celebrations.
Raspberry Almond Thumbprints: A Buttery, Jam-Filled Delight for Every Occasion
24 cookies
servings15
minutes15
minutes120-140
kcalIngredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
⅔ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup raspberry jam (seedless preferred)
¼ cup sliced or finely chopped almonds
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Mix in egg yolk and almond extract until smooth.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing just until combined.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet.
- Press a thumb or spoon into the center of each cookie to form an indentation.
- Fill each indentation with about ½ teaspoon raspberry jam.
- Sprinkle almonds around the edges if desired.
- Bake for 13–15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For best results, use softened butter, not melted, to maintain the cookie’s shape and texture.
Seedless raspberry jam creates a smoother, more attractive filling, but any high-quality jam works well.
FAQs
1. Can raspberry almond thumbprints be made ahead of time?
Yes, raspberry almond thumbprints can be prepared in advance. The dough may be refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking, or the baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container for several days without losing their flavor or texture.
2. What type of raspberry jam works best for thumbprint cookies?
Seedless raspberry jam is often preferred for a smoother finish, but regular jam works just as well. High-quality or homemade jam provides a richer flavor and better consistency when baked.
3. Why do my thumbprint cookies spread too much?
Excess spreading usually occurs when the butter is too warm or the dough isn’t chilled. Refrigerating the dough for 20–30 minutes before baking helps the cookies hold their shape.
4. Can I freeze raspberry almond thumbprint cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze very well. Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Dough balls without jam can also be frozen and filled just before baking.
5. How do I keep the jam from overflowing while baking?
Avoid overfilling the thumbprint indentation. Using about ½ teaspoon of jam per cookie ensures the filling stays neatly in place during baking.
Conclusion
Raspberry almond thumbprints bring together simple ingredients and classic flavors to create a cookie that feels both comforting and refined. The buttery base, nutty undertones, and sweet raspberry filling combine in perfect harmony, making each bite memorable. Whether baked for celebrations or everyday enjoyment, these cookies remain a beloved favorite that never fails to impress. With endless customization options and straightforward preparation, raspberry almond thumbprints deserve a permanent place in every home baker’s recipe collection.
