These Raspberry Almond Sandwich Cookies are a sweet delight! Soft almond-flavored cookies hug a tasty raspberry filling, creating a perfect treat for any occasion.
Whenever I make these cookies, I can’t help but sneak a few before they’re even filled! They’re so good that sharing can be a challenge. Just keep a few for yourself! 😉
What I love about these cookies is how easy they are to make. Just whip up the dough, bake, and add the yummy raspberry spread. They look fancy but are super simple to prepare!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the cookies. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with margarine, but for the best flavor, stick with butter. Make sure to soften it for easy mixing!
Almond Extract: This gives the cookies their classic flavor. If you want a nut-free version, swap it with vanilla extract. It will change the flavor, but they’ll still be delicious!
Ground Almonds: Ground almonds add texture and enhance the almond flavor. If you don’t have them, substitute with an equal amount of more all-purpose flour, but you’ll miss out on that nutty taste.
Raspberry Jam: This is the star filling! You can use strawberry or any fruit jam if you prefer something different. For a gourmet twist, try using homemade jam!
Powdered Sugar: Perfect for dusting the cookies. If you want to cut sweetness, just reduce the amount used, or skip it altogether! The cookies will still be good.
How Do I Get the Perfect Cookie Texture?
To achieve that soft, tender texture, focus on how you mix your ingredients. Cream the butter and sugar well; this incorporates air, making your cookies light. Avoid over mixing once you add the flour, as it can make them tough.
- Work with softened butter for easy mixing.
- Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading, leading to a better cookie shape.
- Watch the baking time closely. Remove the cookies from the oven while they’re still pale; they continue to set as they cool.
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to making excellent Raspberry Almond Sandwich Cookies that everyone will love! Enjoy baking! 🍪
Raspberry Almond Sandwich Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup ground almonds (almond meal)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- 3/4 cup raspberry jam or preserves (seeded or smooth based on preference)
- Optional: sliced almonds, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 12 minutes of baking, plus a 30-minute chilling time for the dough. In total, you’ll spend about an hour making and enjoying these delicious cookies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheets:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
2. Creaming the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer. Mix it until it’s light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Adding the Egg and Flavoring:
Add in the egg and the pure almond extract. Beat the mixture again until everything is fully combined and smooth.
4. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients.
5. Combining the Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients mixture to the butter mixture. Mix just until everything is incorporated, being careful not to overwork the dough.
6. Chilling the Dough:
Shape the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
7. Slicing the Cookies:
Once chilled, remove the dough from the fridge and slice it into rounds about 1/4-inch thick. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheets, making sure there’s enough space between them for spreading.
8. Baking:
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges just start to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake, as you want them to remain pale.
9. Cooling the Cookies:
After removing them from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for around 5 minutes. Then, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Assembling the Sandwiches:
Once cool, dust the tops of half the cookies with powdered sugar. Take the other half and spread about 1 teaspoon of raspberry jam on the bottom side. Sandwich them together with the dusted cookies, pressing gently so the jam spreads evenly.
11. Optional Final Touch:
If desired, press a few sliced almonds gently into the sides of the cookies for a lovely garnish. This adds both visual appeal and extra crunch!
12. Storage:
Store your delicious raspberry almond sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Enjoy the sweet flavor and tender texture!
These little treats are perfect for tea time, coffee breaks, or simply indulging yourself. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Can I Use Different Types of Jam?
Absolutely! While raspberry jam is traditional, you can substitute it with any fruit jam or preserves you like, such as strawberry, apricot, or even cherry. Just make sure it’s smooth enough to spread easily.
How Can I Store the Cookies to Keep Them Fresh?
Store the sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them, but the texture may change slightly.
Can I Freeze the Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the unfilled cookies! After baking and cooling, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before filling with jam.
What If I Don’t Have Ground Almonds?
You can replace the ground almonds with an equal amount of additional all-purpose flour. However, this will alter the flavor and texture slightly. Ground almonds add a delicious nutty flavor and a unique texture.