Ingredients
For the cookies
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup raspberry jam
For the lemon glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F 180°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy
Mix in the vanilla extract
Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms
Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet
Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie
Fill each indentation with a small amount of raspberry jam
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden
Let the cookies cool completely on a rack
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth
Drizzle the lemon glaze over the cooled cookies
Let the glaze set before serving
Method
Start by properly creaming the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy this step is key for a soft tender texture
Do not overmix once you add the flour mix just until the dough comes together to keep the cookies light and crumbly
Chill the dough for 15 to 20 minutes if it feels too soft this helps the cookies hold their shape while baking
Make gentle indentations not too deep to avoid the jam spilling over during baking
Use good quality raspberry jam for the best flavor and color
Let cookies cool completely before adding the glaze so it sets nicely on top
Benefits
These cookies are made with simple ingredients and contain no preservatives
Raspberry jam adds a fruity touch with a bit of natural sweetness and antioxidants
Lemon glaze provides a fresh citrus flavor that balances the richness of the butter
Perfect for tea time desserts or special occasions
Easy to customize with different jams or citrus flavors
Nutrition
Calories about 140 per cookie
Carbohydrates 18 grams
Fat 7 grams
Protein 1 gram
Sugar 9 grams
Values may vary depending on portion size and ingredients used
Conclusion
These raspberry thumbprint shortbread cookies are buttery soft and filled with sweet jam then finished with a bright lemon glaze for a perfect balance of flavors
They are simple to make yet look elegant making them ideal for sharing gifting or enjoying with a warm drink