Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies

Introduction

Baking is always a joy, but when you come across a recipe that blends both vibrant fruit flavors and the comforting softness of sugar cookies, it’s a whole new level of indulgence. I first made these Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies for a summer family gathering, and they were an instant hit. The combination of the rich, buttery cookie base with the sweet-tart raspberry filling creates a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, the soft, chewy texture makes each bite irresistible.

My family and friends were so impressed with these cookies that I had to share the recipe. The subtle hint of almond extract (optional but highly recommended) enhances the raspberry flavor, while the cinnamon-sugar coating adds a light crunch. These cookies also look as good as they taste, making them perfect for gifting, parties, or just a sweet treat to enjoy on your own. If you love fruity, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1/2 cup raspberry jam or fresh raspberries, mashed
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

For Rolling:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

For Garnish (optional):

• Fresh raspberries
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. The creaming process helps the cookies develop that soft, chewy texture.
4. Add the Egg and Extracts: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined, ensuring the ingredients are fully incorporated.
5. Incorporate the Raspberries: Mix in the raspberry jam or mashed fresh raspberries, along with the lemon zest (if using). This is where the fruitiness of the cookies shines, giving them a delightful burst of flavor.
6. Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough to keep the cookies soft and tender.
7. Prepare the Rolling Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and cinnamon for rolling the dough. This mixture will add a subtle spice and sweetness to the exterior of the cookies.
8. Shape the Dough: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Then, roll each dough ball in the sugar-cinnamon mixture to coat evenly. This gives the cookies a beautiful sparkly finish and adds flavor to the outer layer.
9. Arrange the Cookies on the Baking Sheet: Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers to help them spread evenly during baking.
10. Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overbaking, as the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
11. Cool the Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Garnish and Serve: Once the cookies are cooled, garnish them with fresh raspberries and a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired. This adds a nice touch of elegance to the cookies, perfect for serving at a party or gifting.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per Serving: 150 kcal (approximate)

Nutrition Breakdown per Serving:

• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 19g
• Sodium: 55mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• With a Cup of Tea or Coffee: These soft and chewy raspberry sugar cookies are a great pairing with a cup of hot tea or coffee. The sweet raspberry and buttery cookie complement the richness of the drink.
• For Holiday Parties: Serve these cookies at your next holiday party for a crowd-pleasing treat that looks as festive as it tastes. Garnish with powdered sugar and fresh raspberries for an elegant presentation.
• As a Gift: These cookies make excellent homemade gifts. Package them in a decorative tin or box with a festive ribbon for a personal touch.
• With Ice Cream: Serve the cookies warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla or raspberry sorbet, for a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Butter: Ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature before mixing. This will help it cream with the sugar, creating a smooth, light texture for the cookies.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing the dough can cause the cookies to be dense. Mix until the ingredients are just combined to maintain their soft, chewy texture.
3. Try Fresh Raspberries: If you prefer, you can use fresh raspberries instead of raspberry jam. Just mash them lightly before mixing them into the dough for a fresher, fruitier flavor.
4. Chill the Dough for Thicker Cookies: If you want the cookies to be a little thicker, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling and baking. This will help the cookies hold their shape while baking.
5. Add More Flavor with Lemon Zest: If you like citrus flavors, add more lemon zest to enhance the raspberry filling. The lemon zest adds brightness and depth to the flavor profile.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free Version: You can make these cookies gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free, especially the baking soda and extracts.
• Vegan Version: To make these cookies vegan, substitute the butter with dairy-free butter or coconut oil and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water, mixed and left to sit for 5 minutes).
• Different Jam or Fruit: If raspberry isn’t your favorite, try using strawberry, blueberry, or even apricot jam for a different flavor. You could also use mashed fresh fruits like strawberries or blackberries for a fresh twist.
• Add White Chocolate Chips: Fold in some white chocolate chips for a creamy contrast to the raspberry’s tartness. This would add another layer of sweetness and texture to the cookies.
• With a Crunch: For some texture contrast, you could add crushed almonds or pistachios to the dough for an extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• For Special Occasions: These raspberry sugar cookies are perfect for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or baby showers. Their vibrant color and delicate flavor make them a lovely dessert to share with friends and family.
• With a Cheese Platter: Serve these cookies alongside a cheese platter for a fun dessert pairing. The sweetness of the cookies and the richness of cheeses like brie or goat cheese make for an interesting and unique combination.
• On a Dessert Table: These cookies are great additions to a dessert table, paired with other treats like cupcakes, brownies, and pies. Their fruity flavor offers a nice balance to heavier or richer sweets.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing Cookie Dough: You can freeze the cookie dough for later use. Roll the dough into balls, coat them in the sugar-cinnamon mixture, and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, store the dough balls in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding 1-2 minutes to the bake time.
• Storing Baked Cookies: Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 7 days. To keep them fresh, place a piece of parchment paper between layers of cookies.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of jam?
   • Yes, you can substitute raspberry jam with any type of jam or preserve, such as strawberry, apricot, or blueberry.
2. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to

3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

3. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   • Yes, margarine can be used in place of butter, but the texture may be slightly different.
4. Can I make these cookies without the almond extract?
   • Yes, the almond extract is optional. If you don’t have it or don’t prefer the flavor, you can skip it.
5. Can I use fresh raspberries instead of jam?
   • Yes, you can use fresh raspberries, just mash them slightly before mixing them into the dough.
6. How can I make these cookies thicker?
   • Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before rolling it out can help create thicker cookies.
7. How long do these cookies last?
   • These cookies will last for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
8. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
   • Yes, just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
9. Can I add other toppings besides raspberries?
   • Yes, you can add a variety of toppings like chopped nuts, extra sprinkles, or even a drizzle of white chocolate.
10. Can I freeze the baked cookies?

• Yes, the baked cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Store them in an airtight container, and allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

These Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies are a perfect balance of sweetness, fruitiness, and buttery goodness. The soft texture, combined with the refreshing raspberry flavor, makes them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday party, a special occasion, or just as a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to impress. The simple ingredients and easy instructions make them a fun recipe to share with family and friends. Enjoy them fresh or store them for later – either way, they’ll be a hit!

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