Raspberry Almond Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweet and tangy flavor of raspberries with the nutty richness of almonds. These cookies are a fantastic choice for holiday baking, special occasions, or simply as a homemade treat to enjoy with a cup of tea. The unique combination of ingredients results in a cookie that is both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.
These cookies feature a soft and chewy base with a hint of almond flavor and a surprise raspberry jam center, topped off with a signature almond kiss. The contrast between the sweet raspberry jam and the nutty almond kiss creates a harmonious flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for more. If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that stands out from the usual fare, Raspberry Almond Kiss Cookies are sure to impress.
Ingredients for Raspberry Almond Kiss Cookies
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds (optional for added texture)
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam or preserves
For the Almond Kisses:
- 24 whole almonds (one for each cookie)
Optional:
- Additional granulated sugar for rolling
- Extra chopped almonds for garnish
How to Make Raspberry Almond Kiss Cookies
Prepare the Cookie Dough:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure even baking.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of packed light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender cookie texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined. The egg provides structure and moisture to the cookie dough, while the vanilla adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. The baking soda helps the cookies rise, and the salt enhances the overall flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. If you’re using finely chopped almonds, fold them into the dough at this stage for added texture and flavor.
Shape and Fill the Cookies:
- Form the Cookie Balls: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If desired, roll the dough balls in additional granulated sugar before placing them on the baking sheet for a sweet, sparkling finish.
- Create the Indentations: Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press down in the center of each dough ball to create a small well. This indentation will hold the raspberry jam.
- Add Raspberry Jam: Spoon a small amount of raspberry jam (about 1/2 teaspoon) into each indentation. Be careful not to overfill, as the jam can spread during baking.
- Top with Almonds: Place a whole almond on top of each jam-filled cookie. The almond not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful presentation.
Bake the Cookies:
- Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should remain soft in the center but firm up as they cool.
- Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set and prevents them from breaking apart.
Optional Garnish:
- Add More Almonds: For an extra touch of texture and flavor, you can sprinkle additional chopped almonds over the cookies before baking.
About the Main Ingredients
Unsalted Butter:
Unsalted butter is used in this recipe to provide a rich, creamy base for the cookie dough. It helps create a tender and flavorful cookie. Be sure to soften the butter before mixing to achieve the best texture.
Granulated Sugar and Brown Sugar:
Granulated sugar and brown sugar work together to sweeten the cookies and contribute to their texture. Granulated sugar adds sweetness and crispness, while brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor.
Raspberry Jam:
Raspberry jam provides a burst of fruity flavor and a beautiful color contrast in these cookies. The sweet and tangy jam complements the nutty almonds and rich cookie dough, making each bite a delightful experience.
Almonds:
Almonds add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the cookies. They are used both in the dough (optional) and as a topping, enhancing the overall taste and presentation. Almonds are also a good source of healthy fats and protein.
Vanilla Extract:
Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cookies and adds depth to the sweet and nutty profile. It’s a staple ingredient in many baked goods for its aromatic qualities.
Raspberry Almond Kiss Cookies are a wonderful way to enjoy a classic combination of flavors in a cookie format. Their delightful taste and appealing appearance make them a great addition to any cookie tray or as a special treat for yourself and loved ones. Enjoy the process of making these cookies and the delicious results!
