These Raspberry Almond Cookies are the stuff of sweet dreams—tender, buttery, and crowned with a jewel-like center of tangy raspberry jam. They strike the perfect harmony between almond richness and fruity brightness, with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. Whether you’re planning for a cozy afternoon tea or looking to impress family and friends during the holidays, these cookies are as delightful to gaze at as they are to devour. Trust me, once you’ve tasted these Raspberry Almond Cookies, you’ll want to bake them again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll love how each ingredient in these Raspberry Almond Cookies comes with a purpose, making the flavor and texture seriously irresistible. Grab these pantry staples and you’ll see how easy it is to transform humble ingredients into a batch of cookies that feel like a small celebration!
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Gives these cookies their rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture—softening the butter ensures everything creams up perfectly.
- Granulated sugar (2/3 cup): Sweetens the dough and helps it become light and fluffy when creamed with the butter.
- Almond extract (1 teaspoon): Adds fragrant almond flavor that pairs beautifully with the raspberry center, making every bite memorable.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The structure of the cookie—creates that soft, yet slightly crumbly, base we adore.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors, making both the almond and raspberry pop on your palate.
- Raspberry jam (1/2 cup): Provides that signature burst of tangy, vibrant flavor in every thumbprint.
- Sliced almonds, lightly toasted (1/2 cup): Gives a satisfying crunch and pretty, golden edges.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup, for dusting): Finishes each cookie with a snowy, sweet flourish.
How to Make Raspberry Almond Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine your softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed to blend them together until the mixture is pale, light, and fluffy. This step is all about building that irresistible, delicate texture—don’t rush it!
Step 2: Add the Almond Extract
Pour in the almond extract and mix until it’s fully incorporated. That sweet, nutty aroma will start teasing your senses, hinting at the delicious Raspberry Almond Cookies soon to come.
Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, stirring gently until a soft dough begins to form. The dough will be sturdy but pliable—just right for rolling into little balls.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls between your palms. Arrange the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart—they’ll need a bit of elbow room as they bake.
Step 5: Add the Raspberry Jam
Use your thumb (or the back of a small spoon) to gently press a well into the center of each dough ball. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of raspberry jam into the indentation of each. This luscious filling is the star of your Raspberry Almond Cookies!
Step 6: Sprinkle with Sliced Almonds
Take your lightly toasted sliced almonds and sprinkle them around the edges of each cookie. Not only do these add gorgeous texture, but they toast up beautifully in the oven for extra flavor.
Step 7: Bake
Slide your tray into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 12–14 minutes, until the edges of the cookies are just turning golden. Your kitchen will smell absolutely divine—the telltale sign that Raspberry Almond Cookies are dancing toward perfection.
Step 8: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once completely cool, give them a generous dusting of powdered sugar. Magic in every bite!
How to Serve Raspberry Almond Cookies
Garnishes
For an extra-special finish, try drizzling a quick almond glaze over the cooled cookies, or add a sprinkling of extra toasted almonds. A little shimmer of edible glitter can also really make your Raspberry Almond Cookies party-ready!
Side Dishes
These cookies are dreamy alongside a steaming mug of tea or coffee. For fancy gatherings, pair Raspberry Almond Cookies with a bowl of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to turn dessert into a true event.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your cookies on a tiered cake stand for a stunning centerpiece, tuck them into a decorative tin with parchment for a beautiful homemade gift, or pile them high on a rustic wooden board with fresh raspberries and sprigs of mint for a buffet table. However you serve them, Raspberry Almond Cookies always bring smiles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extras in an airtight container at room temperature; they’ll stay tender and fresh for up to 5 days. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and your Raspberry Almond Cookies will be as good as new each time you reach for one.
Freezing
Looking to enjoy Raspberry Almond Cookies beyond the bake day? Freeze unfrosted cookies (without powdered sugar) for up to 2 months in a well-sealed container—just thaw and dust them with sugar right before serving. They’re freezer-friendly and perfect for planning ahead.
Reheating
If you crave that just-baked warmth, pop your cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 3–4 minutes. This brings back a bit of that fresh-from-the-oven magic, especially if you froze your batch.
FAQs
Can I use a different jam besides raspberry?
Absolutely! While raspberry is classic, you can experiment with other flavors like strawberry, apricot, or blackberry jam—just keep the amount the same, and your cookies will still be delicious.
How do I prevent the jam from spilling over while baking?
Make sure to create a deeper well in each cookie and avoid overfilling; about 1/2 teaspoon per indentation does the trick. A thicker jam also helps keep things tidy within the cookie center.
Can I make Raspberry Almond Cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap in a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. These cookies adapt beautifully and stay perfectly tender.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Double all the ingredients and bake in batches, just as you would with the original recipe. Raspberry Almond Cookies are a huge hit at parties, so why not make plenty?
How can I make the almond flavor even stronger?
If you’re a true almond lover, add another 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract to the dough or drizzle the cooled cookies with an almond glaze made from powdered sugar, almond extract, and a splash of milk.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to bring a bit of bakery magic into your own kitchen, Raspberry Almond Cookies are simply irresistible! So gather your ingredients, let your oven glow, and watch as these cookies win hearts just as quickly in your home as they have in mine.
PrintRaspberry Almond Cookies Recipe
These Raspberry Almond Cookies are a delightful treat with a buttery almond base, sweet raspberry filling, and crunchy sliced almonds. Perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a fruity, nutty cookie.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert, Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, European-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Fillings and Toppings:
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, lightly toasted
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in almond extract.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour and salt, stirring until dough forms.
- Shape Cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make an indentation in the center of each ball.
- Add Fillings: Fill each indentation with raspberry jam and sprinkle sliced almonds around the edges.
- Bake: Bake for 12–14 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar once cooled.
Notes
- You can substitute raspberry jam with strawberry or apricot for variation.
- For extra almond flavor, drizzle with an almond glaze made from powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 45 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg