Name: Raspberry Heart Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 7 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; ⅔ cup granulated sugar; 2 egg yolks; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ¼ cup (280g) all-purpose flour; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; 4 tablespoons freeze dried raspberry powder, sifted (~1 1.25oz bag of freeze dried raspberries); 10 oz raspberry jam

Let me share one of my favorite treats—the Raspberry Heart Thumbprint Cookies Recipe. These delicate cookies combine tender, buttery dough with a punch of raspberry flavor and a sweet heart-shaped jam center that’s just too cute to resist.

A close-up of many small round pink cookies stacked closely together, each cookie has two layers: the bottom layer is a slightly lighter pink with a smooth, soft texture, while the top layer is a deeper pink, slightly crumbly, with a heart-shaped cutout filled with shiny, deep red jelly that looks thick and smooth. The cookies sit on a white plate over a wood texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Raspberry Heart Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Raspberry Heart Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Raspberry Heart Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Honestly, these cookies are my go-to when I want something that looks special but is surprisingly simple to make. The raspberry powder in the dough gives a subtle berry tang you won’t find in any other thumbprint cookie.

Beautiful Presentation: The heart shape indentation filled with jam makes these cookies perfect for gifting or special occasions.
Flavor Infusion: Freeze-dried raspberry powder in the dough adds a natural fruity brightness throughout each bite.
Easy Prep: The dough chills quickly and is straightforward to shape, even if you’re baking with kids.
Soft Yet Set: These cookies bake up with a golden bottom but stay soft and tender on top, setting perfectly as they cool.

Ingredients & Why They Work

When you shop for this recipe, the key is to find quality ingredients that bring out the best flavors—like fresh butter and the best raspberry jam you can get your hands on. Also, grabbing freeze-dried raspberries makes all the difference for that vibrant color and tart taste in the dough.

Flat lay of a small slab of unsalted butter, a small white bowl of granulated sugar, two whole uncracked brown eggs, a small white bowl of vanilla extract, a small white bowl filled with all-purpose flour, a small white bowl with kosher salt, a small white bowl containing bright red freeze-dried raspberry powder, a small white bowl of glossy raspberry jam, all arranged symmetrically on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control the salt content for better flavor balance.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that tender crumb.
Egg Yolks: Give richness and help bind the dough without making it too cakey.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure so the cookies hold their shape but remain soft.
Kosher Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Freeze Dried Raspberry Powder: This is the secret ingredient that infuses the dough with natural raspberry flavor and a lovely pink hue.
Raspberry Jam: The luscious filling that steals the show—choose a smooth, high-quality jam for the best results.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best parts about this Raspberry Heart Thumbprint Cookies Recipe is how easy it is to customize to your own taste and occasion. Whether you want to swap fillings or add your own twist to the dough, these cookies are a wonderful canvas for creativity.

Variation: For a festive holiday version, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the dough—this warm spice twist pairs beautifully with the raspberry jam and adds a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen. I once made these for a winter gathering and everyone loved the subtle spice surprise!
Dietary Twist: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour can replace part of the all-purpose flour. Just be mindful it will change the texture slightly, making the cookies a little more delicate.
Jam Swap: While raspberry jam is classic and delicious, other fruit preserves like apricot or strawberry work just as well. A zingy lemon curd filling is also a refreshing alternative if you’re feeling adventurous!

Step-by-Step: How I Make Raspberry Heart Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

A white round plate filled with two layers of round raspberry cookies, each cookie is purple with a shiny red jam heart shape in the center. Around the plate on the wood textured table, some more cookies are placed. There is a bowl of fresh red raspberries in white bowl with a scalloped edge and red trim at the bottom of the image, and two smaller white bowls at the top right, one filled with bright red powder and the other with thick red jam and a wooden spoon inside. All items rest partly on a red cloth with white shapes, and the surface behind everything has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar to Perfection

Start by placing the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat them together for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. You'll notice the texture become creamier and the color turn a pale yellow—this is key to getting tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies.

Step 2: Add in Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Next, mix in the two egg yolks and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Keep beating until the batter is smooth and well combined. The egg yolks add richness that helps keep the cookies soft, while vanilla brings out the depth of flavor.

Step 3: Whisk the Dry Ingredients Together

In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and freeze-dried raspberry powder. Sifting the raspberry powder before mixing ensures no lumps or seeds, giving your dough a beautifully even rosy color and a natural berry brightness in every bite.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Gently

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two batches. Mix just until everything comes together—over-mixing will make the dough tough, so slow and steady wins the race here. You’ll end up with a soft but manageable dough.

Step 5: Chill, Chill, Chill

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This chilling step firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and helping the cookies keep their shape while baking. Try not to skip this—it makes a noticeable difference!

Step 6: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (about 177°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking. Getting these ready ahead of time keeps the process smooth after chilling.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies and Create Heart Indentations

Scoop about one tablespoon of dough and roll into a smooth ball. Flatten it slightly into a puck shape, then place on your prepared baking sheet. Using your pinky or index finger, gently press into the center of the dough ball about three-quarters of the way down to form the delicate heart-shaped indentation. This little detail makes these cookies so charming!

Step 8: Fill with Raspberry Jam

Spoon or pipe the luscious raspberry jam into each heart indentation, filling just almost to the top. Be careful not to overfill, or the jam might spill over during baking. The jam’s rich flavor perfectly balances the tender, buttery cookie dough.

Step 9: Chill Again to Set the Shape

Pop the filled cookies back in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. This extra chill helps the cookies maintain their pretty heart shapes while baking, and prevents spreading.

Step 10: Bake and Cool

Bake the cookies for 12 minutes, or until the bottoms turn a lovely golden brown. The tops might still feel soft when you take them out—don’t worry, they’ll set up as they cool. Transfer the cookies carefully to a wire rack and let them cool completely before indulging. These little beauties are worth the wait!

Top Tip

These Raspberry Heart Thumbprint Cookies look charming and taste heavenly, but a few thoughtful tweaks can make your baking experience even smoother and more successful. Here are some warm and practical tips to help you nail this recipe every time.

Chill Twice for Perfect Shape: Chilling the dough before shaping and again after adding the jam really helps the cookies keep their delicate heart indentations and prevents spreading during baking.
Freeze-Dried Raspberry Powder: Be sure to sift your raspberry powder well to avoid seeds in the dough, which can affect the texture and appearance. This subtle ingredient brings lovely raspberry flavor and a lovely blush color to the cookie base.
Gentle Mixing: When you add the flour mixture, mix just until combined. Overmixing develops gluten, which could make the cookies tough rather than soft and tender.
Top Off the Jam Carefully: Filling the jam just to the top of the heart ensures the cookies bake nicely without jam overflowing and burning on the pan.

How to Serve Raspberry Heart Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

A large white bowl filled with a thick, coarse pink mixture being stirred by a black electric hand mixer with two metal beaters covered in the same pink mixture. Around the bowl, on a wooden surface, there are three small white bowls: one with bright red powder, another with dark red raspberry jam showing chunks and seeds, and a scalloped white bowl filled with whole fresh raspberries. One loose raspberry is resting near the top right side of the image. The scene is set on a white marbled texture background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, dust the cooled cookies lightly with powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a gentle snowy look that complements the rosy raspberry centers beautifully. Fresh mint leaves or edible rose petals served alongside can elevate your presentation for tea parties or holidays.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea, enhancing their delicate fruity notes. For brunch or dessert tables, serve alongside lemon curd, whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After baking, store your Raspberry Heart Thumbprint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and soft for up to one week, making them a delightful treat any time during the week.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze them for up to three months. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper inside an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent sticking and maintain their lovely heart shapes and flavors.

Reheating

To enjoy the cookies warm, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer, you can warm them in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes to revive softness and enhance that freshly-baked aroma.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of freeze-dried raspberry powder?

Fresh raspberries add moisture and won't give the same concentrated flavor or dry texture in the dough that freeze-dried powder provides. It’s best to stick with freeze-dried raspberry powder for that beautiful pink tint and balanced flavor in the cookie base.

What type of raspberry jam works best?

Choose a high-quality raspberry jam that is smooth and thick. Seedless or fine-strained jams work well because they fill the heart indentation neatly without overflowing or making the cookies soggy.

Why do the cookies feel soft on top right after baking?

It’s normal for these cookies to feel soft on top when taken right out of the oven. As they cool on the wire rack, they firm up nicely while remaining tender. Avoid baking longer than recommended to keep them from becoming too crisp.

Can I make these cookies vegan or gluten-free?

This recipe uses butter, egg yolks, and all-purpose flour, so it’s not vegan or gluten-free as written. However, you could experiment with vegan butter substitutes, flax egg yolks, and a gluten-free flour blend, though texture and flavor might vary.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about baking Raspberry Heart Thumbprint Cookies — they bring a touch of love and a burst of raspberry sweetness into every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with family, gifting them to friends, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to brighten any day. Remember, the magic is in the simple steps and the patience to chill and chill again. Happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with warmth and delicious aromas!