Raspberry Jam Cookies Recipe

If you have a soft spot for cookies that strike the perfect balance between buttery, crumbly, and bursting with fruity sweetness, this Raspberry Jam Cookies Recipe is going to be your new obsession. These charming little cookies combine a tender almond-infused dough with a luscious dollop of seedless raspberry jam at the center, finished with a delicate powdered sugar glaze that elevates every bite. They bake up golden-edged and tender with that irresistible jam surprise, making them a fantastic treat for everything from everyday snacking to festive gift-giving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Raspberry Jam Cookies Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in delivering that melt-in-your-mouth texture and brilliant flavor contrast. From the rich butter to the bright raspberry jam, every component shines.

• 1 cup salted butter (softened, 2 sticks): The foundation of a tender, flavorful dough that browns beautifully.
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right sweet crunch and helps with the cookie’s structure.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract: Infuses the dough with a subtle nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with raspberry.
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 2 cups all purpose flour + 3 tablespoons (spooned and leveled): Gives the cookies their structure while keeping them tender.
• 1/2 cup seedless raspberry jam: The jewel in the crown, providing a luscious, fruity center without pesky seeds.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: The base for the glossy, sweet almond glaze.
• 1 & 1/4 teaspoons almond extract: Added to the glaze for extra aroma and flavor harmony.
• 2-3 teaspoons milk: Adjusts the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.

How to Make Raspberry Jam Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

Begin by beating your softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes fluffy and light, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial because the air you incorporate here will help create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie. Don’t forget to scrape the bowl’s sides to ensure even mixing!

Step 2: Add Flavorful Extras

Next, add the almond extract and salt to your creamed mixture, beating well so the flavors meld together. The almond extract enhances the cookie’s aroma and complements the raspberry jam beautifully.

Step 3: Incorporate Flour

Gradually add the flour, beating until the dough forms a stiff ball. Stop mixing as soon as the dough comes together to avoid developing gluten, which would make your cookies tough — you want soft, tender bites!

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, though 4 hours or even up to 48 works wonders. Chilling firms up the dough and intensifies flavors, making it easier to work with and yielding fluffier cookies.

Step 5: Prep to Bake

Take your dough out of the fridge and let it soften for 10–20 minutes. Meanwhile, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and help cookies bake evenly.

Step 6: Shape and Press

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Scoop the dough into roughly 1 tablespoon-sized balls. Space them about an inch apart on the prepared sheets. Then, create a well in the center of each cookie using your thumb or a tool about the size of a chapstick tube — this well will hold the luscious jam perfectly without overflowing.

Step 7: Add Jam and Chill Briefly

Stir the raspberry jam to smooth out any lumps, then spoon a small amount (between 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon) into each cookie’s well. A little jam goes a long way here! For best results, chill the cookies briefly for about 15 minutes before baking to keep them firm and puffed.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies for 12 to 14 minutes. Look for edges that start to turn golden but not brown, and for jam that bubbles charmingly in the center. Timing is key to get a tender cookie with a beautiful presentation.

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 10 minutes after pulling them from the oven, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. While cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk to create a thin glaze. Drizzle this glaze generously over your cookies for that delightful sweet finish.

How to Serve Raspberry Jam Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

These cookies are stunning on their own, but a light dusting of extra powdered sugar or tiny fresh raspberries on top adds an elegant touch. A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds pairs beautifully with the almond notes in the dough and glaze.

Side Dishes

Serve these raspberry jam cookies alongside a cup of rich black tea or a creamy latte for a cozy afternoon indulgence. They also complement fresh fruit salads or bowls of vanilla yogurt perfectly, balancing the jammy sweetness with fresh and creamy elements.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting or parties, arrange these cookies on a vintage platter or in a pretty tin lined with parchment paper. Tie bundles of them with twine and a sprig of fresh mint or edible flowers to add rustic charm. You can also sandwich two cookies with extra raspberry jam for neat little jammy cookie sandwiches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your baked Raspberry Jam Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. The glaze might soften a touch over time, but the cookies will stay delectably tender and flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze the dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a ziplock bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, then proceed with the shaping and baking steps. You can also freeze baked cookies by layering them between parchment paper in an airtight container.

Reheating

To enjoy leftover baked cookies warm, pop a few in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or heat gently in a low oven until just warmed through. This revives their soft texture and enhances the jam’s lusciousness beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of jam?

Absolutely! While raspberry is classic for this recipe, strawberry, apricot, or even blackberry jam would work wonderfully, each bringing its unique flavor twist to the cookies.

Why is it important to chill the dough?

Chilling firms up the butter, preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking and helping develop a tender crumb with deeper flavor development.

How do I prevent jam from spilling over during baking?

The key is to press a well in the dough and use just a small amount of jam — about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon. Also, keeping the dough cold until baking helps maintain the cookie’s shape, keeping the jam contained.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Be sure to check that your blend includes xanthan gum or another binder for the best texture.

What is the best tool to create the jam well?

A rounded tool about the size of a chapstick tube or a wooden spoon handle works perfectly to create an even indentation without breaking through the dough.

Final Thoughts

These Raspberry Jam Cookies Recipe hold a special place in my heart because they are simple to make but so impressive in flavor and presentation. They bring a touch of homemade warmth wherever you share them, whether for an everyday treat or a special occasion. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and fall in love with these sweet, tender bites just like I did.

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