Gluten-free Almond Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies

Name: Raspberry Almond Thumbprints
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 20 Cookies
Ingredients: 1/4 c. unsalted butter, room temperature; 1/2 c. vegetable shortening; 1/4 c. sugar; 1/4 c. brown sugar, packed; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1 tsp. almond extract; 2 c. gluten-free flour blend, spooned and leveled (I use Bob's RedMill); 1/4 tsp. salt; 1/2 c. seedless raspberry jelly/jam; 1 c. powdered sugar; 1/2 tsp. almond extract (or to taste); 1-2 tsp. milk

Desserts

Oct 16

Written By Kali Terry

There are few things that can rival the charm of a beautifully made batch of homemade cookies, especially when they evoke a sense of comfort, nostalgia, and holiday cheer. One such treat that fits this description perfectly is the gluten-free almond raspberry thumbprint cookie. A delicate combination of almond-flavored dough, a sweet burst of raspberry jam, and a final touch of almond glaze, these cookies are not just a visual delight but a sensory experience that will have you reaching for one after another. Whether you're baking for a holiday party or looking to add a touch of elegance to your Christmas cookie platter, these Almond Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies are a must-try.

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Gluten-Free Almond Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies

Taste and Texture: The Perfect Balance

The taste of these cookies is nothing short of enchanting. The almond extract used in the dough imparts a subtle, nutty richness, which pairs beautifully with the tartness of the raspberry jam. The sweetness of the jam contrasts with the buttery dough, creating a harmonious balance in every bite. It's a flavor that feels luxurious yet familiar, making these cookies the perfect treat to enjoy with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

But it's the texture of these cookies that really elevates them to the next level. Thanks to a combination of butter and shortening in the dough, these cookies are incredibly tender and flakey. The fat from the butter creates a melt-in-your-mouth effect, while the shortening adds just the right amount of structure to keep them from being too delicate. They hold their shape beautifully while still offering that satisfying crumbly texture that melts away on the tongue. The raspberry jam in the center provides a soft contrast, creating a gooey, flavorful surprise with each bite. And, after being drizzled with a smooth almond glaze, the cookies take on a light, delicate sheen that adds a touch of elegance to their overall presentation.

A Few Ingredients, But Full of Flavor

One of the things that makes these thumbprint cookies so special is their simplicity. The ingredients list is minimal, yet every component serves to enhance the flavor and texture. There’s no need for an overwhelming array of spices or additives. The key ingredients come together seamlessly to create a cookie that’s both sophisticated and easy to make. Here’s what you need:

Butter and Shortening: This combination forms the base of the dough, ensuring a cookie that’s tender and flaky.
Almond Extract: This provides a fragrant nutty undertone that complements the raspberry jam beautifully.
Raspberry Jam: The star of the thumbprint, providing a sweet, tart, and slightly tangy filling that contrasts beautifully with the cookie’s rich base.
Almond Icing: A drizzle of almond-flavored icing or glaze gives the cookie a refined, glossy finish and enhances the almond flavor in the dough.

These few ingredients create a cookie that’s deceptively simple but undeniably delicious. You don’t need a long list of exotic components to achieve that “wow” factor, making this a great cookie to bake with children or anyone who’s new to gluten-free baking.

Easy to Make, Fun to Bake

Despite their refined taste and appearance, these almond raspberry thumbprint cookies are remarkably easy to prepare. The dough comes together quickly, with just a few simple steps: mix, scoop, press, and bake. The thumbprint step is fun and allows for creativity—you can make the thumbprint as deep or shallow as you prefer, and there’s no need for perfection. The raspberry jam fills in any imperfections, so no one will be the wiser.

Once baked, these cookies are just waiting for their finishing touch: a drizzle of almond glaze. The glaze, made with powdered sugar, almond extract, and a little milk, adds an elegant sheen and a burst of almond flavor to each bite. It’s the final touch that makes these cookies feel special and perfect for any festive occasion, especially when displayed on a holiday cookie platter.

Perfect for a Christmas Cookie Platter!

Speaking of festive occasions, these almond raspberry thumbprint cookies are a standout addition to any Christmas cookie platter. Their eye-catching appearance, with the deep red raspberry jam sitting at the center, makes them a visual showstopper. The glossy almond glaze adds a final layer of sophistication, making these cookies look like they were bought from an upscale bakery—when in reality, they were made right in your own kitchen.

These cookies are also versatile. They pair wonderfully with other classic Christmas cookies like sugar cookies, gingerbread, or snickerdoodles, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. And since they are gluten-free, they’re a thoughtful choice for anyone with dietary restrictions. Even those who don’t follow a gluten-free diet will appreciate the deliciously tender texture and the sweet-tart raspberry filling.

Why You’ll Love These cookies

Here are just a few reasons why these cookies are an absolute must-bake for the holidays:

Deliciously Tender: The combination of butter and shortening makes the cookies incredibly tender and flaky, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Subtle Almond Flavor: The almond extract adds depth to the dough and enhances the raspberry jam filling.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Christmas, a family gathering, or just a quiet evening at home, these cookies are always a crowd-pleaser.
Gluten-Free: With a simple swap of ingredients, these cookies are completely gluten-free, making them suitable for those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make these cookies a breeze to prepare, even for beginner bakers.

These gluten-free almond raspberry thumbprint cookies are more than just a treat; they’re an experience. From the buttery, flaky texture to the tangy-sweet raspberry jam and the smooth almond glaze, each bite is a celebration of holiday flavors. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these cookies offer the perfect balance of elegance and comfort.

Let the baking begin!

Gluten-Free Almond Raspberry Thumbprints

TIPS AND TRICKS:

- Always preheat your oven.

- All refrigerated ingredients should be room temperature unless stated otherwise.

- Be very careful when transferring these cookies; The jam inside them is very hot!

- You can sub out the almond extract for vanilla extract if you don't like or have allergies to almond.

If you're looking to add a bit of holiday cheer to your cookie lineup, these almond raspberry thumbprint cookies are sure to become a new favorite. Their minimal ingredients, ease of preparation, and stunning presentation make them the perfect addition to any Christmas cookie platter. And, no matter how many cookies are left after the party, you’ll find that these delightful bites will quickly disappear—just like the joy they bring to everyone who tries them.