These Raspberry Almond Sandwich Cookies are a sweet treat that packs joy in every bite! With a soft almond-flavored cookie filled with tangy raspberry jam, they are simply delightful.
Whenever I make these cookies, I can’t resist sneaking a few before they even cool down! They’re perfect for sharing, but honestly, I understand if you want to keep them all for yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This is essential for rich flavor and helping the cookies achieve that soft texture. If you only have salted butter, feel free to use it but reduce the added salt in the recipe.
Granulated Sugar: Besides sweetening the cookies, sugar helps with browning. You could replace half with a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Almond Extract: This gives the cookies their distinct flavor. If almond extract isn’t available, vanilla extract is a good alternative, though it will change the flavor slightly. You could also try hazelnut extract for a twist.
All-Purpose Flour: Standard for most baked goods. If you’re gluten-free, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can work just as well in this recipe.
Ground Almonds: These enhance the almond flavor and add texture. You can substitute with finely chopped almonds or even walnuts if you prefer.
Raspberry Jam: Use your favorite kind of jam. If raspberry isn’t your thing, other fruit jams like strawberry, apricot, or cherry work nicely too!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Soft Cookies?
Getting soft cookies can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right: The important part is creaming the butter and sugar properly. This creates air pockets that help your cookies rise and stay light. Here’s how to ensure they are perfectly soft:
- Beat the butter at room temperature until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Don’t overbake! Pull the cookies out when the edges are just starting to turn golden—this keeps the center soft.
- If the dough feels sticky, chilling it makes it easier to handle and shapes better but avoid over-chilling as it can harden the dough.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with soft, delicious raspberry almond sandwich cookies every time!
Raspberry Almond Sandwich Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for rolling
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup finely ground almonds (or almond meal)
- 3/4 cup raspberry jam (seedless if preferred)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes to prepare and 12 minutes to bake, plus additional time to cool. Overall, expect to spend around 1 hour until you have these delightful cookie sandwiches ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar. Use a mixer to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Next, beat in the egg and almond extract until everything is well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and finely ground almonds. This will help ensure that everything is evenly distributed in the dough.
4. Form the Dough:
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Stir until a soft dough forms. If your dough is too sticky, feel free to chill it in the fridge for about 20 minutes to make it easier to handle.
5. Shape the Cookies:
Use a tablespoon to scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Then, roll each ball in some granulated sugar to give them a nice sweetness on the outside.
6. Flatten and Bake:
Place the dough balls on your prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave about 2 inches between them. Flatten each ball gently with the bottom of a glass or with your fingers until each one is about 1/4 inch thick.
7. Bake:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. You want the edges to be lightly golden while keeping the cookies pale in the center.
8. Cool Completely:
After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Once the cookies are fully cooled, spread about 1 teaspoon of raspberry jam on the bottom side of one cookie. Top it with another cookie to form a sandwich. Gently press them together to let the jam spread just a bit to the edges.
10. Dust with Powdered Sugar:
If you like, add a little extra sweetness by dusting the assembled sandwich cookies with powdered sugar just before serving.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy these delicious cookies right away, or store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days!
These delicate cookies combine the sweet nuttiness of almond with the fruity brightness of raspberry jam, making them perfect for tea time, gifts, or any occasion where you want a lovely sweet treat!
Can I Use a Different Type of Jam?
Absolutely! While raspberry jam brings a lovely flavor, you can use any fruit jam you prefer, such as strawberry, apricot, or even a mixed berry jam. Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold between the cookies.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, but let them come back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I Freeze These Cookies?
Yes! To freeze, assemble the sandwich cookies with jam but do not dust with powdered sugar. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
What Can I Replace the Almond Extract With?
If you don’t have almond extract on hand, vanilla extract works well as a substitute, though it will slightly change the flavor profile. You could also try hazelnut extract for a unique twist!
