Traditional Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies

If you’ve ever wanted a cookie that’s buttery, tender, and perfectly balanced with a fruity filling, Traditional Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies are exactly what you need. These classic cookies are a staple in holiday cookie trays, tea-time spreads, or simply for indulging in a sweet moment at home.

With a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a jewel-like dollop of raspberry jam in the center, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious. Perfect for gifting, entertaining, or cozy evenings, they bring a little bit of old-fashioned charm to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic flavor with a modern touch: Buttery shortbread combined with sweet-tart raspberry jam.
• Beautiful presentation: Thumbprint shape filled with vibrant jam makes them visually stunning.
• Perfect texture: Crisp edges with a tender, soft center.
• Versatile: Use different jams like strawberry, apricot, or blackberry for variety.
• Ideal for gifting: These cookies look and taste like a bakery treat, making them perfect for sharing.
• Simple ingredients: Pantry staples with no complicated steps, yet impressive results.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a clear, grouped list of ingredients for 4 servings (about 24 cookies depending on size):

Cookie Dough

• 2 egg yolks (room temperature)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup softened unsalted butter (Kerrygold recommended)
• 2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (King Arthur recommended)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar

Raspberry Filling

• 1/2 cup raspberry jam (seedless or with seeds, based on preference)

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Spatula
• Small mixing bowl
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Wire cooling rack
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ice cream scoop or cookie scoop
• Thumb or small spoon for jam indentation

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps for perfect Traditional Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies every time.

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place a rack in the center. Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature—it should yield to gentle finger pressure but not be greasy. Proper preparation prevents the dough from becoming too soft or greasy during mixing.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed for 3–4 minutes until the mixture is pale, fluffy, and noticeably lighter in color. This incorporates air into the butter, producing tender cookies with a delicate texture.

Step 3: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Reduce mixer speed to low. Add egg yolks one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next (about 30 seconds per yolk). Mix in vanilla extract until just combined. The batter should now be smooth, creamy, and glossy.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed, mixing just until dough comes together. Stop as soon as the flour is incorporated to prevent developing gluten, which can make cookies tough.

Step 5: Shape Cookies and Add Jam

Using a cookie scoop or ice cream scoop, portion the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Gently press your thumb or a small spoon into the center of each dough ball to create a well about halfway down, being careful not to crack the sides. Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of raspberry jam. Work in small batches to prevent the dough from becoming too firm as it sits.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden but centers remain pale and tender. The cookies will continue to cook slightly after removal from the oven, so avoid overbaking.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Transfer the hot baking sheet to a cooling rack and let cookies rest for 10 minutes. Then, carefully move the cookies to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. The jam will have softened beautifully and melded into each thumbprint.

Tips & Variations

• Jam options: Use strawberry, blueberry, apricot, or any favorite jam for a flavor twist.
• Seedless jam: For smooth, visually appealing centers.
• Nutty variation: Press finely chopped nuts around the jam well for extra crunch.
• Mini cookies: Slice the dough smaller for bite-sized cookies, adjusting baking time to 10–12 minutes.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt chocolate and drizzle over cooled cookies for a decadent touch.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Taste: Buttery, lightly sweet cookies with a tart and fruity raspberry center.
• Texture: Crisp edges with a soft, tender interior.
• Serving Ideas: Serve with tea, coffee, or milk. Perfect for dessert trays, afternoon tea, or gifting during the holidays.

Nutritional Overview (Per Cookie)

• Calories: 125 kcal
• Protein: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Fiber: <1 g
• Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly; can be adapted to gluten-free by substituting flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Dough: Prepare dough in advance, roll into balls, and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to baking time.
• Baked cookies: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 5 days.
• Freezing baked cookies: Place cooled cookies in a single layer in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Jam stability: Use well-set jams to prevent cookies from becoming soggy during storage.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use homemade jam?
Yes! Homemade raspberry jam works perfectly. For a smooth texture, strain to remove seeds if desired.

Q2: Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Texture may vary slightly but will still be tender.

Q3: How do I get neat thumbprints?
Use your thumb or a small spoon and press gently halfway into the cookie ball. Fill immediately with jam to maintain shape.

Q4: Can I make mini cookies?
Yes! Reduce dough size to 3/4-inch balls and bake 10–12 minutes.

Q5: How should I store these cookies for gifting?
Stack cookies with parchment layers in a tin or airtight container. They stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep ingredients & dough	12 minutes
Shape and fill cookies	10 minutes
Bake	12–15 minutes
Cooling	10–15 minutes

Total Time: ~38 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Arrange on decorative trays for holidays, parties, or afternoon tea.
• Serve alongside fresh berries or whipped cream for a special dessert.
• Pack in cellophane bags or boxes for homemade gifts.

Creative Recipe Variations

1. Mixed Berry Thumbprints: Alternate raspberry, blueberry, and strawberry jam for colorful variation.
2. Lemon-Raspberry Thumbprints: Add 1 tsp lemon zest to dough for a fresh, zesty twist.
3. Chocolate-Dipped Thumbprints: Dip cooled cookies halfway in melted chocolate for added decadence.
4. Nutty Thumbprints: Press chopped almonds or pecans around jam wells for a crunchy texture.

Ingredient Spotlight

Unsalted Butter

• Selection: High-quality butter, like Kerrygold, provides rich flavor.
• Storage: Refrigerate until softened to room temperature before use.
• Tip: Softened butter ensures smooth, creamy dough without being greasy.

Raspberry Jam

• Selection: Choose high-quality, flavorful jam. Seedless produces smooth swirls, but seedy jam adds texture.
• Storage: Refrigerate after opening.
• Enhancing: Slightly warm jam for easier swirling and filling.

Pro Baking Tips

• Cream thoroughly: Incorporate air for tender cookies.
• Chill dough if needed: Prevents spreading and ensures better shape.
• Avoid overmixing flour: Ensures a tender cookie, not tough or dense.
• Cool properly: Sets the cookies and prevents breakage.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Unbaked dough: Freeze shaped balls on a tray, then transfer to freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes.
• Baked cookies: Store at room temperature in airtight containers for 5 days or freeze up to 2 months.
• Layering: Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Cookie)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	125 kcal
Protein	1 g
Carbs	15 g
Fat	7 g
Saturated Fat	4 g
Fiber	<1 g
Cholesterol	35 mg
Sodium	35 mg
Dietary Notes	Vegetarian; can be gluten-free

Expanded Conclusion

These Traditional Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies are a timeless treat with a perfect combination of buttery cookie and fruity jam. Whether it’s for a holiday tray, gifting, or a quiet evening indulgence, they bring warmth and classic charm to your kitchen.

With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and the option to make ahead, this recipe is approachable for home bakers of all skill levels. The tender, buttery texture and jewel-like raspberry centers make every bite irresistible.

Make a batch, share with loved ones, or keep them all for yourself—either way, these cookies are bound to become a favorite recipe in your collection.

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