Raspberry Thumbprint Christmas Cookies

What kind of recipe is it?

Raspberry thumbprint cookies are delightful, bite-sized treats characterized by their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet raspberry filling nestled in the center.

With their charming appearance and unique flavor, these cookies are perfect for special occasions, tea parties, or simply as a cozy homemade snack.

Their appeal to bakers of all skill levels makes them easy to prepare, inviting creativity with variations in jams or toppings.

Ideal for anyone who loves cookies or seeks to impress friends and family with a scrumptious dessert, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	2 cups (240g)
Unsalted butter	1 cup (226g), softened
Granulated sugar	3/4 cup (150g)
Powdered sugar	1/4 cup (30g)
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Almond extract	1/2 teaspoon
Large egg	1
Salt	1/4 teaspoon
Raspberry jam	1/2 cup (160g)
Chopped nuts (optional)	1/2 cup (60g), for sprinkling (e.g., walnuts or pecans)

This table outlines the ingredients required to make raspberry thumbprint cookies, along with their specific quantities to guarantee the best results in your baking.

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Cooking Steps

Preheat the oven to 175 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the middle. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 226 g (1 cup) of softened unsalted butter and 150 g (3/4 cup) of granulated sugar using a hand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add 30 g (1/4 cup) of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract, 1 large egg, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the butter mixture. Beat on low speed until combined.
Gradually mix in 240 g (2 cups) of all-purpose flour until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender cookie texture.
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This helps the dough firm up, making it easier to shape.
Once chilled, use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough, rolling each portion into a ball about 2.5 cm (1 inch) in diameter. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
Using your thumb or the back of a measuring spoon, gently press down in the center of each dough ball to create a well for the jam (ensure the dough remains intact and doesn’t crack).
Fill each thumbprint with approximately 10 g (1 teaspoon) of raspberry jam, ensuring the jam is leveled with the top of the cookie well to prevent overflow while baking.
If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts (60 g (1/2 cup)) around the edge of the jam in each thumbprint for added texture and flavor.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set but slightly soft. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Allow cookies to cool fully to room temperature before serving or storing. Enjoy the aroma of fresh-baked cookies filling your kitchen!

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Variations

Chocolate-Covered Thumbprints: Substitute raspberry jam for melted dark chocolate (around 100 g (3.5 oz)) and drizzle additional chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.
Nutty Oat Thumbprints: Replace 60 g (1/2 cup) of all-purpose flour with rolled oats for a heartier texture, and add 60 g (1/2 cup) of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a nutty flavor.
Vegan Thumbprints: Swap the egg for 60 g (1/4 cup) of unsweetened applesauce and use coconut oil in place of butter to create a delicious dairy-free treat.
Gluten-Free Thumbprints: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend (240 g (2 cups)) to make the cookies safe for gluten-sensitive individuals while maintaining great flavor.

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Tips on plating and presentation

elevate dessert presentation beautifully

When experimenting with variations like chocolate-covered or nutty oat thumbprints, presentation can elevate your baking to an art form.

I love using a contrasting plate color to make the cookies pop. Arrange them in a circle and sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a festive touch. A sprig of mint or a few berries adds that extra special detail.

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

While Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies stand out on their own, they pair beautifully with a variety of dishes that can complement their sweet tartness.

I love serving them alongside warm brie cheese or a classic cheese platter. They also work well with a rich chocolate dessert, balancing the flavors perfectly.

For a festive touch, consider placing them on a charcuterie board for an inviting spread.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

To enhance your Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies experience, consider the perfect drink pairings that can elevate their flavor.

I love pairing these cookies with a cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or hibiscus, as it complements their sweetness.

For a festive touch, a sparkling raspberry lemonade adds a revitalizing zing.

If you prefer something stronger, a light white wine works wonderfully, too!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Raspberry Jam With Other Flavors?

Absolutely, you can substitute raspberry jam with other flavors! I often use strawberry, apricot, or even chocolate spreads. It’s a fun way to experiment and find your favorite combination. Just go with what you love!

How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?

These cookies stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. I usually freeze them for longer storage since they maintain their flavor and texture beautifully that way.

Are These Cookies Suitable for Freezing?

Yes, I’ve found these cookies freeze really well! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for the best taste.

Can Children Help Make These Cookies?

I love having my kids help in the kitchen. They enjoy rolling dough and making thumbprints. It’s a fun, easy way for them to learn and create special memories while baking together.

What Type of Flour Works Best for This Recipe?

I’ve found that all-purpose flour works best for this recipe. It gives the cookies a nice texture without being too dense. Don’t worry; it’s easy to find and perfect for baking delicious treats!