Valentines Treats Raspberry Almond Cookies

Name: Valentines Treats Raspberry Almond Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons almond extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup finely chopped almonds; 1 cup raspberry jam

Highlighted under: Modern Collection

I absolutely love baking, especially when it comes to creating sweet treats for special occasions. These Raspberry Almond Cookies are a perfect blend of flavors and textures, combining the tartness of fresh raspberries with the nutty richness of almonds. Each bite is a symphony of sweetness and a wonderful reminder of why I adore baking. Whether you're making them for a loved one or just to treat yourself, these cookies are bound to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the delicious world of baking these heartwarming delights!

Created by

Lottie Pennington

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:53:34.393Z

Baking these Raspberry Almond Cookies is always a delightful experience for me. I remember the first time I made them; the buttery aroma filled my kitchen as the cookies baked to a golden perfection. The addition of crushed almonds gives them a wonderful crunch, while the raspberry filling adds a juicy burst that surprises your taste buds. I’ve experimented with the proportions of ingredients to achieve just the right balance of flavors, and I’m excited to share the perfected recipe with you!

One of the best tips I can offer is to chill the dough before baking. This not only helps the cookies maintain their shape but also enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld together. I've found that a brief time in the refrigerator makes all the difference, resulting in a tender, chewy cookie that’s hard to resist. Enjoy these treats with a cup of tea or coffee!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        The perfect combination of tart raspberries and nutty almonds
Soft and chewy texture with a delightful crunch
Great for sharing with loved ones on Valentine's Day or any occasion

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of butter in these Raspberry Almond Cookies plays a significant role in achieving the desired texture. Unsalted butter, when softened, creates a creamy base that contributes to the cookies' rich flavor and chewy texture. It's essential to ensure the butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming with the sugars, which should result in a light and fluffy mixture. If you're short on time, cutting the butter into smaller pieces can help it soften faster without melting.

Almond extract is another key ingredient, infusing a delightful nutty aroma that beautifully complements the tartness of raspberries. When measuring almond extract, be precise, as even a bit too much can overpower the other flavors. If you're looking for a twist, consider substituting half of the almond extract with vanilla extract to create a unique flavor profile that still respects the original essence of the cookie.

Mastering the Baking Technique

Chilling the dough is not just a suggestion; it’s essential for cookies that hold their shape. If the dough feels too soft after mixing due to warm kitchen temperatures, extending the chilling time to up to an hour can be beneficial. This allows the gluten in the flour to relax and helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

When shaping and filling the cookies, ensure that your indent is deep enough to hold a generous spoonful of raspberry jam without overflowing. A good technique is to use the back of a round teaspoon to create a smooth hollow. Keep an eye on your cookies in the oven; you want them to bake until the edges turn lightly golden, while the centers remain soft for the ultimate chewy consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make delicious Raspberry Almond Cookies!

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons almond extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup finely chopped almonds
1 cup raspberry jam

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your Raspberry Almond Cookies.

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, adding the almond extract as well. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Stir in the chopped almonds.

Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Shape and Fill the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the chilled dough and roll it into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and create a small indent in the center of each cookie. Fill the indent with raspberry jam.

Bake

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Raspberry Almond Cookies fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top of the cookies before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Raspberry Almond Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, making them perfect for pre-baking before events. To maintain freshness, consider layering parchment paper between cookies to prevent them from sticking together. If you'd like to prepare the dough in advance, it can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

When you're ready to bake, simply thaw the refrigerated or frozen dough overnight in the fridge. If frozen, allow the dough to rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling into balls, ensuring a smoother rolling process and better oven rise.

Variations and Creative Swaps

If you're looking to switch things up, consider using other fruits to fill the cookie. Instead of raspberry jam, try blueberry or apricot jam for a different flavor experience. You can also experiment with different nuts; substituting pistachios or hazelnuts for almonds will give the cookies a whole new personality while retaining that delightful crunch.

For a gluten-free option, you can replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Just be aware that the texture may vary slightly, so adding a tablespoon of cornstarch can help achieve a softer cookie. Remember to check the baking time, as gluten-free cookies often require different durations to achieve the perfect finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead of jam?

Yes, you can use fresh or frozen raspberries. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.

→ How do I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

→ Can I substitute the almonds with another nut?

Absolutely! You can substitute almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different flavor.

→ Is it possible to make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking.