Valentines Treats Raspberry Almond Cookies

Name: Valentines Treats Raspberry Almond Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp almond extract; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup raspberry jam; 1/2 cup slivered almonds; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1-2 tbsp almond milk; 1/2 tsp almond extract

Highlighted under: Golden Food

I absolutely love making these Raspberry Almond Cookies for Valentine's Day! The combination of tart raspberry and sweet almond flavors is truly irresistible. Each bite takes me back to my childhood when I would bake with my grandmother. She always said that adding a touch of almond extract made everything taste better. These cookies not only look beautiful with their vibrant raspberry filling but also bring a wonderful aroma that fills the kitchen. They're a perfect treat to share with loved ones or enjoy with a cup of tea.

Created by

Elin Matthews

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:26:35.258Z

While experimenting with cookie recipes, I found myself drawn to the classic flavors of raspberry and almond. After a few attempts, I nailed the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness that makes these cookies exceptional. The addition of slivered almonds not only enhances the taste but also adds a delightful crunch.

I recommend chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This little step ensures that the cookies hold their shape while baking and remain soft and chewy on the inside. Once baked, a light drizzle of almond glaze on top is the cherry on the cake!

Why You'll Love These Cookies
The delightful blend of sweet and tart in every bite
A perfect crunchy exterior with a chewy center
Beautifully festive for sharing with loved ones

The Importance of Chilling the Dough

Chilling the cookie dough is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. When the dough is refrigerated for at least 30 minutes, it firms up, making it easier to handle and shape. This also helps the cookies maintain their form while baking, preventing excessive spreading. If you’re short on time, a quick 15-minute chill may suffice, but for best results, aim for the full time. You'll notice that the cookies come out with a better texture when the dough has been allowed to rest.

Additionally, chilling the dough enhances the flavors as they meld together more effectively. The resting period allows the moisture to evenly distribute throughout the mixture, leading to a more consistent taste in every bite. If you plan to bake later, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours, tightly wrapped, giving you flexibility in your baking schedule.

Experimenting with Fillings

While raspberry jam is the star of this recipe, don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors. Opt for apricot or strawberry jam if you're in the mood for a change. Each variation brings a unique twist to the cookies while still complementing the almond extract beautifully. Additionally, you can incorporate citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, into the dough for an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with all fruit fillings.

If you're looking for a lower-sugar option, consider using fruit preserves that contain less sugar or are sweetened with natural alternatives like honey or agave. Just keep in mind that the consistency may vary, so check the quantity needed for filling each cookie properly.

Storing and Serving Your Cookies

These Raspberry Almond Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. To keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to two weeks. If you’re preparing them in advance, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent sticking.

For serving, these cookies are delightful on their own but are even better when paired with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Add a sprinkle of extra slivered almonds on top or a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant touch. You can also serve them on a festive platter for gatherings, making them the perfect Valentine's Day treat to impress your guests!

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp almond extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup raspberry jam
1/2 cup slivered almonds

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tbsp almond milk
1/2 tsp almond extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.

Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading. Use your thumb to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.

Fill with Jam

Fill each indentation with a small amount of raspberry jam. Top with slivered almonds for crunch.

Bake the Cookies

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar with enough almond milk to get a drizzling consistency. Add almond extract and mix well.

Glaze the Cookies

Once the cookies are cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and let it set before serving.

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, try using different jams like apricot or strawberry. Ensure to let the cookies cool completely before glazing for the best appearance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you notice that your cookies are spreading too much during baking, it could be due to the butter being too warm or melted. Always ensure the butter is softened, not melted, and that the dough has been adequately chilled. You can also increase the flour content by a few tablespoons to help them maintain their shape.

Another common issue is the jam overflowing during baking. To minimize this, be cautious not to overfill the indentations. A small amount of jam is sufficient, as it will spread slightly but should stay contained within the cookie edges.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're planning to make a larger batch of these cookies for a crowd or party, simply double or triple the ingredients as needed. However, be mindful of your mixing bowl size—if your bowl is too small, it may be challenging to mix the larger quantities evenly. It's often better to make two separate batches to ensure proper mixing and texture.

For smaller gatherings, you can also halve the recipe with ease. The measurements are flexible enough to accommodate such adjustments while maintaining the same delightful taste and texture that makes these cookies special.

Creative Add-ins

For an added layer of flavor and texture, consider mixing in some mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks to the dough. These will melt slightly during baking, giving the cookies a wonderfully gooey center that contrasts nicely with the tart raspberry filling. Chocolate pairs beautifully with the almond and raspberry flavors, making each bite more indulgent.

Additionally, you might think about incorporating spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg. Just a pinch can enhance the overall flavor profile, giving these cookies a warm and inviting aroma that's perfect for any occasion beyond Valentine's Day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use butter instead of margarine?

Yes, unsalted butter is perfect for this recipe.

→ How do I store these cookies?

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

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw before baking.

→ What can I substitute for almond extract?

You can use vanilla extract instead, but the flavor profile will change slightly.