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The Ultimate Classic Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies: Buttery Shortbread with Perfectly Set Jam Center

Three delicious raspberry thumbprint cookies dusted heavily with powdered sugar on a light surface.

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Make classic, buttery shortbread cookies with a sweet raspberry jam center. This recipe yields tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup raspberry jam
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  2. Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined into a dough. Do not overmix.
  4. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them 2 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
  5. Use your thumb or the back of a small measuring spoon to press a deep indentation into the center of each dough ball.
  6. Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of raspberry jam.
  7. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The jam will bubble.
  8. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. If desired, dust the cooled cookies lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

  • For the best shortbread texture, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling if your kitchen is warm.
  • If the jam sinks too much during baking, refill the center immediately after removing the cookies from the oven while they are still hot.
  • You can substitute almond extract for vanilla for an almond flavor variation.

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