Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies with Icing: A Valentine’s Day Delight

Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to show your love with sweet treats, and what better way to do so than with Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies with Icing? These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are filled with sweet and tangy raspberry jam, then topped with a delicate drizzle of vanilla icing. Whether you’re celebrating with your significant other, family, or friends, these cookies are a surefire way to add a touch of love to your day. Plus, they’re a hit for Christmas, tea parties, or just about any time you’re craving a classic, jam-filled dessert.

Let’s dive into how to make these delectable cookies, including pro tips for ensuring your raspberry jam stays perfect and the icing adds just the right amount of sweetness.

Why Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies Are Perfect for Valentine’s Day

Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies combine the rich, buttery goodness of a shortbread-like base with the vibrant, ruby-red color of raspberry jam. The hue of the jam pairs beautifully with the holiday’s romantic theme, and the sweetness of the cookie mirrors the affection you’ll share on this special day. Plus, the drizzle of vanilla icing gives them an elegant, handmade touch that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to create these heavenly cookies:

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup butter, softened – This ensures the dough is soft and easy to work with.
• 3/4 cup sugar, divided – Adds sweetness and a touch of crunch when rolling the dough balls.
• 1 egg – Helps bind the dough and adds a slight richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the buttery flavor.
• 2 cups flour – Provides the structure for the cookies.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Ensures a slight rise and light texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
• 2/3 cup seedless raspberry jam – The star of the show, bringing sweetness and tartness.

For the Icing:

• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar – Creates the perfect drizzle.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons water – Adjusts the icing’s consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar, and vanilla extract using a hand or stand mixer. This should take 2-3 minutes on medium speed, until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg until well incorporated.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 1 hour to make it easier to handle.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
3. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar for a subtle crunch on the exterior.
4. Place the balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
5. Using your thumb, the back of a rounded 1/2 teaspoon, or the end of a wooden spoon handle, create an indentation in the center of each ball.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake the cookies for 13-16 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
2. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Add the Jam

1. Heat the raspberry jam in the microwave until it’s slightly melted and easy to spoon.
2. Carefully fill each indentation with the melted jam. Allow the cookies to cool completely so the jam sets.

Step 5: Drizzle the Icing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and water until smooth. The icing should be thick but pourable.
2. Use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies in a decorative pattern.
3. Let the icing set before storing.

When to Add the Jam

The debate over when to add the jam to thumbprint cookies often comes down to personal preference. However, adding the jam after baking ensures the cookies stay crisp and the jam maintains its vibrant color and texture. Baking the jam with the cookies can sometimes cause it to overcook and lose its sheen. For this recipe, melting the jam slightly before spooning it into the cookies ensures it spreads evenly and sets beautifully.

Storage Tips

• Store the cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Keep them in a cool, dry place for up to 1 week.
• For longer storage, freeze the cookies (without icing) in a freezer-safe container. Add the icing after thawing.

Tips for Perfect Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies with Icing

1. Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
2. Use Seedless Jam: For a smooth and professional-looking finish, opt for seedless raspberry jam.
3. Don’t Overfill: Use just enough jam to fill the indentation without overflowing.
4. Thick Icing: Ensure the icing is thick enough to hold its shape when drizzled. If it’s too thin, add more confectioners’ sugar.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies with Icing are a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Their soft, buttery texture contrasts beautifully with the tangy raspberry filling and sweet vanilla drizzle. They’re easy to make but look impressively elegant, making them a delightful addition to your Valentine’s Day celebrations.

Bake a batch of these cookies and share them with your loved ones. Their irresistible taste and charm will surely make them a tradition in your home, not just for Valentine’s Day, but for every special moment throughout the year.