Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies with Lemon Glaze: A Sweet Treat to Brighten Your Day
If you’re craving a dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat, Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies with Lemon Glaze are your answer. These cookies bring together the buttery richness of a shortbread base, the fruity tang of raspberry preserves, and the zing of a citrusy glaze. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply as a treat to elevate any moment. With their jewel-like centers and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are bound to become a favorite.
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Ingredients for Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
For the Cookies:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Provides a rich, buttery flavor and the tender texture characteristic of thumbprint cookies.
2/3 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough while helping achieve a soft structure.
2 large egg yolks – Add richness and ensure the cookies hold their shape.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the dough, providing structure and stability.
1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the cookie’s flavors.
1/2 cup raspberry preserves – Fills the cookie centers with a burst of fruity, tangy goodness.
For the Lemon Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar – Creates a smooth and sweet glaze that complements the tart lemon.
2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Adds brightness and a citrusy punch to the glaze.
1 teaspoon lemon zest – Intensifies the lemon flavor and adds texture.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cookie Dough
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, ensuring a tender cookie.
2. Beat in the egg yolks and vanilla extract until fully combined.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
2. Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. This step ensures the dough is firm enough to handle and prevents the cookies from spreading during baking.
3. Shape and Fill the Cookies
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared sheets.
3. Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to gently press a well into the center of each ball.
4. Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of raspberry preserves.
4. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Prepare the Lemon Glaze
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies using a spoon or piping bag.
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Why This Recipe Is Loved
These cookies are a harmony of flavors and textures: the buttery shortbread is complemented by the tangy raspberry and finished with a zesty lemon glaze. They’re versatile, visually stunning, and incredibly easy to make, making them a hit with everyone from kids to adults.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies
1. Chill the dough thoroughly – This prevents spreading and ensures a neat thumbprint shape.
2. Use high-quality preserves – The flavor of the raspberry filling makes a big difference.
3. Don’t overfill the centers – Too much filling can overflow during baking.
4. Make the glaze thin enough to drizzle but thick enough to set – Adjust the lemon juice to achieve the perfect consistency.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair these cookies with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They also make a wonderful addition to dessert platters, holiday cookie exchanges, or gift boxes.
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Conclusion
With their buttery base, tangy raspberry filling, and refreshing lemon glaze, Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies are as simple as they are delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe guarantees success and rave reviews. Bookmark this page, try the recipe, and let these irresistible cookies brighten your day.
