Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a delightful cookie experience that combines the perfect balance of sweet and tart with a wonderful texture, then you are going to love this Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies Recipe. These cookies are soft and tender on the inside with just the right amount of chewiness, enriched by bursts of real raspberry flavor that make every bite heavenly. Whether you are baking for a special occasion or just craving a fruity treat, this recipe hits all the right notes and delivers a comforting, homemade cookie that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients come together effortlessly to create the perfect cookie. Each one plays a crucial role in crafting the ideal softness, sweetness, and vibrant raspberry flavor that make this recipe so irresistible.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your cookie dough, providing structure and chewiness.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough without losing their tender texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture, key to that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps create a slight crisp edge.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and adds to the chewy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cookie’s flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional): Adds a subtle nutty note that pairs beautifully with raspberry.
• 1/2 cup raspberry jam or fresh raspberries, mashed: The star ingredient adding sweet tang and vibrant color.
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional): Brightens flavors and complements the raspberry with a citrusy zing.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: For rolling the dough, creating a slight crunch on the outside.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a gentle warmth that enhances the sweetness.
• Fresh raspberries: For garnish, adding freshness and visual appeal.
• Powdered sugar: To dust the finished cookies, lending an elegant, delicate finish.

How to Make Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This prep step is simple, but it sets the foundation for baking these perfect cookies evenly every time.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Setting these dry ingredients aside ensures they’re evenly distributed before combining them with the wet mixture, which promotes a consistent texture throughout the cookies.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process incorporates air which is crucial for that soft and chewy texture that defines this recipe.

Step 4: Add Egg and Extracts

Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if you’re using it. Beating these together creates a fragrant and flavorful base for the cookies, infusing them with warm, comforting notes.

Step 5: Incorporate the Fruit

Fold in your raspberry jam or freshly mashed raspberries along with lemon zest if desired. This is where the cookies get their signature fruity tang and bright bursts of flavor, making them truly unforgettable.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet, mixing just until combined. Take care not to overmix, which can make the cookies tough instead of soft and chewy.

Step 7: Prepare Rolling Sugar

In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with cinnamon. Rolling the dough balls in this mixture gives the cookies a subtly spiced, sweet crust that makes the outside gently crisp while keeping the centers tender.

Step 8: Shape the Dough

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, then coat each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This rolling step adds texture and extra flavor, which will make the cookies pop in every bite.

Step 9: Flatten the Dough

Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on your baking sheets and gently flatten each ball with the back of a spoon or your fingers. Flattening ensures they bake evenly and spread just right, maintaining that desirable soft center.

Step 10: Bake

Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden, but the centers still look a little soft. This precise baking time is crucial to achieving the soft and chewy texture that makes this raspberry sugar cookie recipe so special.

Step 11: Cool and Garnish

Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, garnish with fresh raspberries and dust lightly with powdered sugar for a gorgeous, festive touch.

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a few fresh raspberries on top or a light dusting of powdered sugar creates an inviting presentation and boosts the flavor with extra freshness. You can even drizzle a little white chocolate for a decadent twist.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a cup of tea, a latte, or even a fresh berry smoothie to complement the raspberry flavor. Their softness pairs wonderfully with something warm and comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider sandwiching two cookies together with a dollop of raspberry jam or cream cheese frosting for an elegant dessert that looks as delightful as it tastes. They also make fantastic gifts when packaged in a pretty tin or wrapped with a ribbon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. To keep them extra fresh, place a slice of bread in the container to maintain their softness and chewiness.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They stay fresh for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature.

Reheating

Warm your cookies in a microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) for 5 minutes to revive that freshly baked softness. This step brings them back to life, making every bite taste just like the first day out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid from frozen raspberries to prevent the dough from becoming too wet.

Is almond extract necessary in this recipe?

It’s optional but highly recommended. Almond extract adds a lovely depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with raspberry, but you can omit it if you prefer.

How do I keep my cookies soft and chewy?

Creaming the butter and sugar properly, avoiding overmixing the dough, baking just until edges are lightly golden, and cooling them correctly all contribute to that perfect soft and chewy texture.

Can I substitute the butter with margarine or oil?

Butter gives the best flavor and texture for these cookies. Margarine can be used but may alter the taste and softness slightly. Oil is not recommended as it changes the dough’s consistency.

Can these cookies be made dairy-free?

Yes, by using a dairy-free butter substitute and ensuring the other ingredients are dairy-free, you can enjoy this recipe with a few adjustments to suit dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

This Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies Recipe is a true joy to bake and share. The way the tender cookie melts in your mouth with vibrant raspberry notes is simply unforgettable. Whether you’re craving a cozy treat or impressing guests with a homemade delight, these cookies will soon become one of your favorites too. Give them a try, and I promise you’ll be reaching for seconds in no time!

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