Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies

Step-by-step instructions

Let’s get baking! Follow these easy steps to create your Raspberry Sugar Cookies:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt, then set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), mixing until well combined.
Fold in the raspberry jam or fresh raspberries, along with the lemon zest (if using), until everything is evenly blended.
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing for that tender texture!
In a separate small bowl, combine 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.
Arrange the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. For a charming finish, dust with powdered sugar or top with fresh raspberries before serving!

Best ways to enjoy it

The best way to enjoy your Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies is by letting them shine on their own, but you can also pair them with a few delicious accompaniments. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful sundae, or enjoy them with a warm cup of tea or coffee. If you’re feeling extra creative, consider arranging them on a beautiful platter garnished with fresh raspberries and a sprinkling of powdered sugar. Your guests will be impressed!

Keeping leftovers fresh

To keep your cookies tasting fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Afterward, you can transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cookies can last for up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

Pro chef tips

Use room-temperature butter: This is crucial for achieving that creamy texture when you cream the butter and sugar together. Make sure your butter is soft but not melting.
Don’t skip the resting: After mixing, allow the cookie dough to chill for about 30 minutes if you have time. This will enhance the flavors and improve the texture of the cookies.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to swap out the raspberry jam for your favorite flavor, like strawberry or blueberry. You can also add in chocolate chips for a fun twist!

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to elevate your Raspberry Sugar Cookies:

Lemon Raspberry Cookies: Add a tablespoon of lemon juice for a tangy kick.
Nutty Delight: Stir in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch.
Double Berry: Use a mix of raspberry and blueberry jams for a fruit explosion.

Common questions

How long does it take to prepare these cookies?
The total time from prep to fresh-baked cookies is about 30-40 minutes, including baking time.