Almond Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies

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Almond Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies – Buttery, Festive, and Jewel-Topped

When the holidays roll around, there’s nothing quite like a tray of delicate, jewel-toned cookies to brighten the season. These Almond Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies are a celebration of texture and flavor: buttery almond dough, soft and tender, cradling a vibrant raspberry jam center and finished with a snowy dusting of powdered sugar. They’re simple to make, stunning to serve, and absolutely irresistible.

Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, assembling edible gifts, or just want a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies deliver elegance and comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

  • Festive and beautiful – Raspberry jam glows like stained glass in the center of each cookie.
  • Soft and buttery – Almond flour gives these cookies a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Simple ingredients – Just a handful of pantry staples.
  • Perfect for gifting – Packaged in a tin, they make a charming homemade present.
  • Customizable – Swap the jam, add citrus zest, or drizzle with chocolate.

Ingredients

This recipe makes about 20–24 cookies.

For the Dough

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
    The base of the dough—rich and creamy.
  • ⅓ cup powdered sugar
    Sweetens and gives a tender texture.
  • 1 cup almond flour
    Adds a nutty flavor and delicate crumb.
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
    Provides structure and balance.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
    Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
  • ¼ teaspoon almond extract
    Adds a warm, aromatic note.

For the Filling

  • ¼ cup raspberry jam
    Choose seedless for a smooth finish, or use your favorite flavor

For the Finish

  • Extra powdered sugar, for dusting
    Adds a snowy, festive touch.

Equipment You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowl
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Small spoon or thumb for indenting
  • Cooling rack
  • Fine mesh sieve (for dusting sugar)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, beat:

  • ½ cup softened butter
  • ⅓ cup powdered sugar

Mix until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.

Add:

  • ¼ teaspoon almond extract

Mix until combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

  • 1 cup almond flour
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Tip: If the dough feels too soft to handle, chill it for 15–20 minutes.

Step 3: Shape and Fill

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls.

Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.

Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently press an indentation into the center of each ball.

Fill each indentation with ½ teaspoon raspberry jam.

Tip: Don’t overfill—jam will spread slightly during baking.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.

The cookies should remain pale and soft in the center.

Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.

Step 5: Dust and Serve

Once completely cool, use a fine mesh sieve to dust the cookies with powdered sugar.

Serve on a festive platter or package in a tin for gifting.

Time & Yield

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: Optional 15 minutes
  • Bake Time: 12–14 minutes
  • Total Time: ~30–45 minutes
  • Yield: 20–24 cookies
  • Calories: ~90 kcal per cookie (approximate)

Tips for Success

  • Use room temperature butter for easy mixing.
  • Chill the dough if it’s too soft to shape.
  • Don’t overbake—these cookies are meant to be soft and tender.
  • Use a small spoon to fill the jam neatly.
  • Dust after cooling to prevent sugar from melting into the jam.

Variations to Try

  • Lemon Raspberry: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest to the dough.
  • Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle cooled cookies with melted dark chocolate.
  • Nutty Twist: Roll dough balls in finely chopped almonds before baking.
  • Different Jams: Try apricot, strawberry, or fig preserves.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Perfect for Gifting

These cookies are ideal for:

  • Holiday cookie boxes
  • Teacher appreciation gifts
  • Hostess presents
  • Bake sales
  • Just-because treats

Package in mini cupcake liners and arrange in a decorative tin or box for a beautiful homemade gift.

Final Thoughts

These Almond Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies are a festive favorite that combines elegance and ease. With their buttery almond base, jewel-like jam centers, and snowy sugar finish, they’re a beautiful addition to any holiday table. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or treating yourself, these cookies are sure to bring joy with every bite.

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