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Classic Buttery Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies with Optional Glaze

Close-up of three delicious raspberry thumbprint cookies with bright red jam centers on a light gray plate.
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Make these easy, buttery shortbread cookies filled with sweet raspberry jam. This traditional recipe yields melt-in-your-mouth treats perfect for holidays or cookie swaps.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup raspberry jam
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for glaze, optional)
  • 1 tablespoon milk or water (for glaze, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined into a soft dough. Do not overmix.
  5. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheets.
  6. Use your thumb or the back of a small measuring spoon to press a deep indentation into the center of each dough ball.
  7. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of raspberry jam into each indentation.
  8. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly soft.
  9. Remove cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. If making the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk or water until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.

Notes

  • For a slightly almond flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract with the vanilla extract.
  • If the jam seems too thick, warm it slightly in the microwave for 10 seconds to make it easier to spoon into the indentations.
  • For the best thumbprint shape, chill the dough balls for 15 minutes before making the indentations.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savoryskies.com/raspberry-thumbprint-cookies/