Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that perfectly balances soft, chewy texture with a burst of bright raspberry flavor, this Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These charming treats bring a delightful blend of sweet and tangy, all wrapped up in a tender cookie that melts in your mouth. Imagine biting into a cookie that is just the right amount of chewy, with raspberry jam or fresh raspberries swirled throughout, and a subtle hint of cinnamon and lemon zest adding layers of flavor. Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite cookie recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are beautifully simple, yet each plays a crucial role in making these cookies irresistibly soft, flavorful, and colorful. From the creamy butter that gives richness to the tartness of the raspberries and the delicate hint of almond extract, every item on this list works to create a perfect harmony of taste and texture.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that provides structure without sacrificing tenderness.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise gently, keeping them soft and airy.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to create chewiness.
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps with that crispy edge when rolled in cinnamon sugar.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and provides a tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cookie’s flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional): Offers a subtle nutty aroma that beautifully complements raspberries.
• 1/2 cup raspberry jam or fresh raspberries, mashed: The star ingredient that gives this cookie its luscious fruity burst.
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional): Adds a refreshing brightness that balances the sweetness.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: For rolling the dough balls to create a sweet, slightly crunchy outer layer.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Infuses warmth and gentle spice to the sugar coating.
• Fresh raspberries: For garnishing and an extra pop of fresh fruit flavor.
• Powdered sugar for dusting: Adds a pretty, delicate finishing touch to wow your guests.

How to Make Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your cookies won’t stick, making your baking experience smooth and cleanup effortless.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry components well ahead helps distribute the leavening agent evenly, which is key for that ideal cookie texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this usually takes about three minutes. This step is essential to trap air, which aids in creating the incredibly soft and chewy texture you’ll love.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts

Next, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if you’re using it. These ingredients bring moisture and nuanced flavor layers that make these cookies so special.

Step 5: Mix in Raspberries and Lemon Zest

Stir in the raspberry jam or mashed fresh raspberries along with the optional lemon zest. This addition infuses the dough with that signature sweet-tart burst that defines the Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies Recipe.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Taking care not to overmix preserves the tender crumb and chewy texture that make these cookies unforgettable.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup granulated sugar and cinnamon. This mixture will be used to coat each dough ball, adding a delicate sweetness with a warm, spicy hint that’s pure magic once baked.

Step 8: Shape and Coat Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into neat balls. Then, roll each ball through the cinnamon sugar mixture until thoroughly coated for that inviting crackly exterior.

Step 9: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Space your dough balls about 2 inches apart on the lined baking sheets. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers. This helps the cookies spread evenly and bake beautifully.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn a soft golden brown and the centers are fully set but still tender. That balance is what makes the Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies Recipe truly shine.

Step 11: Cool Cookies

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This resting time allows the cookies to firm up slightly while retaining their signature chewiness.

Step 12: Garnish and Finish

Once completely cooled, garnish your cookies with fresh raspberries and a light dusting of powdered sugar. This final flourish adds elegance and a fresh fruit burst that will impress everyone.

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh raspberries and a dusting of powdered sugar are simple yet stunning garnishes that highlight the cookie’s fruity essence and add visual appeal. For a special occasion, a drizzle of white chocolate can also complement the raspberry flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea, fresh lemonade, or even a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. They are also delightful partners to a bowl of mixed berries or a tart raspberry sorbet to keep the raspberry theme flowing through your dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving these cookies as part of a cookie platter with other fruity or nutty treats makes for an irresistible snack spread. For a party, try placing them in clear jars layered with raspberry jam, or stack them on a pretty plate with edible flowers for an inviting centerpiece that’s almost too pretty to eat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These cookies stay wonderfully fresh when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. You can layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to keep that soft and chewy texture intact.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze the dough balls before baking or the baked cookies themselves. The dough balls can be frozen on a baking sheet then transferred to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Baked cookies freeze well too; just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To refresh your cookies, warm them gently in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will soften the cookies and bring back that fresh-baked charm you love from the Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen raspberries work well if fresh aren’t available. Just thaw and drain excess liquid before mashing or mixing into your dough to avoid making it too wet.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

Almond extract is optional and adds a lovely nutty note, but if you don’t have it, you can simply omit it without sacrificing much flavor. Vanilla extract will still keep your cookies delicious.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix that’s a cup-for-cup replacement. Keep an eye on the texture, and add a little extra moisture if needed.

Why are my cookies not chewy?

Chewiness comes from the right balance of butter, sugar, and gentle mixing. Be sure not to overbake and avoid overmixing the dough. Using softened butter and creaming it well with sugar is key to that soft texture.

Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?

Absolutely! This recipe scales beautifully. Just double all ingredients and remember to bake in batches without crowding the baking sheets to maintain even baking.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies Recipe, I promise it will become a staple in your baking rotation. The delicate balance of soft texture and vibrant raspberry flavor is absolutely magical. Whether you’re baking for a weekend treat or a special celebration, these cookies bring joy with every bite. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a little raspberry-sweetened bliss today!

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