Description
These Raspberry Almond Shortbread Thumbprint Cookies are buttery, tender, and delicately flavored with almond and vanilla extracts. They feature a delightful raspberry jam center and optional crunchy sliced almonds, making them perfect for tea time or festive occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Filling and Garnish
- 1/3 cup raspberry jam (or your favorite fruit jam)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the almond extract, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until fully combined.
- Add the Flour: Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour until just incorporated. The dough should be soft yet firm enough to hold its shape. If the dough feels too soft to work with, refrigerate it for about 10 minutes.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and space them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
- Fill with Jam: Carefully spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of raspberry jam into each indentation, avoiding overfilling to prevent the jam from spilling during baking.
- Optional Garnish: If desired, press a few sliced almonds around the edges of each cookie to add texture and flavor.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Watch carefully to avoid overbaking, which can cause the cookies to dry out.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy once cooled for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Refrigerating the dough makes it easier to handle if it feels too soft.
- Use raspberry jam or substitute with your preferred fruit jam for variations.
- Careful not to overbake to maintain the shortbread’s tender texture.
- The sliced almonds garnish is optional but adds a lovely crunch and nuttiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
