Description
Delight in these Raspberry Almond Shortbread Thumbprint Cookies, a perfect blend of buttery shortbread and sweet, tangy raspberry jam. Complemented by a delicate almond glaze, these cookies are ideal for holiday celebrations or everyday treats.
Ingredients
Scale
Shortbread Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- â…” cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Filling
- ½ cup seedless raspberry jam
Glaze
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ¾ teaspoon almond extract
- 1–2 teaspoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready once the dough is prepared.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, incorporating air for a tender cookie.
- Add Almond Extract: Mix in ½ teaspoon almond extract to infuse a subtle nutty flavor into the dough.
- Combine Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft, manageable dough forms without overmixing to maintain tenderness.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and space them about 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet to allow for spreading.
- Create Indentations: Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to gently press an indentation in the center of each dough ball, preparing space for the jam.
- Add Raspberry Jam: Fill each indentation with approximately ½ teaspoon of seedless raspberry jam, distributing the sweetness evenly.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden, signaling perfect doneness.
- Cool Cookies: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely for optimal texture.
- Prepare the Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, ¾ teaspoon almond extract, and 1–2 teaspoons of milk until you reach a smooth, drizzle-friendly consistency.
- Glaze the Cookies: Drizzle the almond glaze over the cooled cookies and allow it to set before serving to add a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Substitute raspberry jam with other seedless fruit preserves like apricot or strawberry for variety.
- Use a piping bag or a fork dipped in glaze for easier and precise drizzling over the cookies.
- These cookies freeze well, making them a perfect make-ahead treat or holiday gift.
