Valentines Treats Raspberry Almond Cookies

Name: Valentines Treats Raspberry Almond Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup almond flour; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup raspberry jam; Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Special Meals

I absolutely love baking these Raspberry Almond Cookies for Valentine's Day. The delicate balance of almond and raspberry flavors creates a delightful treat that's perfect for sharing with loved ones. The sweet and nutty aroma that fills the kitchen while they're baking is irresistible! I enjoy adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an elegant finish, making them not only delicious but visually appealing too. These cookies are a labor of love that's sure to impress anyone special in your life.

Created by

Xenia Radcliffe

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:57:34.396Z

When I first made these cookies, I wasn't sure how the combination of almond and raspberry would turn out. To my surprise, the flavors melded beautifully, creating a cookie that's both flavorful and festive. I found that using real almond extract rather than imitation really makes a difference in depth of flavor.

Another tip I discovered is to chill the dough before baking. This step helps the cookies hold their shape better and prevents spreading, resulting in perfectly round and soft cookies. No one can resist these little gems during festive gatherings!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Deliciously tart raspberry jam paired with crunchy almonds
A beautiful touch for any Valentine's Day celebration
Soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth

      

The Role of Almonds and Raspberry Jam

The almond flour in these cookies adds a rich, nutty flavor and contributes to their soft, chewy texture. This ingredient is crucial as it ensures the cookies remain moist while providing a delicate crumb structure. If you don't have almond flour, you can grind blanched almonds in a food processor until they reach a fine consistency, which works well as a substitute should the need arise.

Raspberry jam acts as both a flavor enhancer and a visual centerpiece for these cookies. Opt for high-quality jam or preserves with real fruit to elevate the taste. If you prefer a different flavor, consider using apricot or strawberry jam. However, it's essential to maintain the same quantity to keep the cookies' structure intact.

Chilling the Dough: Why It Matters

Chilling the cookie dough before baking is a vital step that should not be overlooked. This helps to firm up the butter, which results in a denser cookie that maintains its shape during baking. A minimum chill time of 30 minutes is recommended, but if your schedule allows, chilling for up to an hour can enhance the flavors further.

During the chilling process, the flour hydrates fully and gluten develops slightly, contributing to the cookie's overall texture. If you're crunched for time, you can even place the dough in the freezer for about 15 minutes. Just be cautious not to freeze it completely, as that would make it challenging to shape.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious Raspberry Almond Cookies.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup almond flour
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup raspberry jam
Powdered sugar for dusting

Mix these ingredients well to create a dough that is both sweet and flavorful.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Raspberry Almond Cookies.

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the almond extract and vanilla extract, followed by the almond flour and all-purpose flour. Add baking powder and salt and stir until fully combined. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.

Shape and Fill

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into small balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making an indentation in each ball using your thumb. Fill the indentation with a small amount of raspberry jam.

Bake

Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Finish and Serve

Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a lovely finish. Serve them at your festive gatherings or pack them up as gifts for your loved ones!

Enjoy these delightful treats that make any occasion special!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding chopped almonds on top of the jam before baking for an extra crunch!

Storage Tips

To keep your Raspberry Almond Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you'd like to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Place the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for a couple of hours, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months without losing their delightful texture.

If you decide to freeze the cookies, be sure to thaw them at room temperature for about 1-2 hours before serving. This will help them regain their softness and flavor. I often prepare a double batch and freeze half, so I have lovely treats ready for unexpected guests.

Perfecting the Baking Process

The baking time for these cookies is essential; watch for the edges to turn a light golden brown, which typically takes between 12 to 15 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Each oven is different, so it's a good idea to check on them a few minutes before the recommended time. If you notice that the tops still look doughy, give them a few extra minutes to achieve the perfect finish without overbaking.

For an additional touch, you can rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even baking, especially in ovens that have hot spots. This small adjustment can prevent some cookies from browning too quickly while others remain pale. Also, consider lining your baking sheets with parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different fruit jam?

Absolutely! Any fruit jam of your choice works well, such as strawberry or apricot.

→ How do I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

→ Can the dough be prepared in advance?

Yes, you can chill the dough and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

→ Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough helps control the spread of the cookies and keeps them from becoming flat during baking.