Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies

These Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat bursting with sweet-tart raspberry flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for holidays, tea parties, or whenever you’re in the mood for a fruity twist on a classic cookie!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the sweetness of sugar cookies with the tangy flavor of raspberries.
• Soft and chewy texture makes them irresistible.
• Easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
• Customizable with optional garnishes for a festive touch.
• Ready in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

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 mashed fresh raspberries
• 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

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
• Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) and mix until well combined.

Step 3: Add the Raspberries

• Mix in the raspberry jam or mashed fresh raspberries and lemon zest (if using) until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 5: Shape and Roll the Cookies

• In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for rolling.
• Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough, roll it into a ball, and coat it in the sugar-cinnamon mixture.
• Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• For an extra touch, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar or top them with fresh raspberries. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Raspberry Twist: Add 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey burst.
• Nutty Delight: Mix in 1/4 cup finely chopped almonds or pistachios.
• Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
• Vegan Option: Use a vegan butter substitute and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water).
• Citrus Boost: Increase the lemon zest to 1 teaspoon for a brighter flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, thaw and mash them before using. Drain excess liquid to prevent the dough from becoming too wet.

2. Can I skip the almond extract?

Yes, it’s optional. The cookies will still taste delicious without it.

3. Why are my cookies spreading too much?

Ensure your butter isn’t too soft, and chill the dough for 15 minutes if needed before baking.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.

5. What’s the best way to mash fresh raspberries?

Use a fork or potato masher to gently mash the raspberries into a chunky consistency.

6. Can I use other fruit flavors?

Absolutely! Strawberry or blackberry jam works well as a substitute.

7. How do I make the cookies more vibrant in color?

Add a few drops of red food coloring to enhance the raspberry hue.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all the ingredients, but bake in batches to ensure even cooking.

9. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should be set, but the centers will still look soft. They’ll firm up as they cool.

10. Are these cookies good for gifting?

Yes, they’re perfect for gifting! Package them in decorative tins or bags for a sweet homemade present.

Conclusion

Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that combines fruity sweetness with a soft, irresistible texture. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday indulgence, these cookies are sure to impress. Customize them with your favorite garnishes and enjoy the delicious results!

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