Buttery Bliss Raspberry Crumble Cookies
There is something timeless about a soft, buttery cookie paired with bright raspberry filling. These Buttery Bliss Raspberry Crumble Cookies bring together a tender shortbread-style base and a sweet-tart center, finished with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar. They look elegant enough for a holiday tray but are simple enough to bake on a quiet afternoon.
The texture is what makes these special. The base is rich and melt-in-your-mouth, while the crumble topping adds just enough contrast. The raspberry filling cuts through the sweetness with a fresh, fruity note that keeps you reaching for another.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 14–16 minutes
Total Time: About 50 minutes
Servings: 12–14 cookies
Ingredients
Cookie Base
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
⅔ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup powdered sugar (reserve 1 tbsp for sprinkling)
1⅓ cup all-purpose flour
⅛ tsp salt
⅓ tsp vanilla extract
⅛ tsp almond extract (optional)
Raspberry Filling
4 tbsp raspberry jam or preserves
1 handful fresh raspberries (optional)
Instructions
Cream the butter and sugars. In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
Add flavoring. Mix in vanilla extract and almond extract if using.
Incorporate dry ingredients. Add flour and salt. Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
Chill the dough. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Preheat the oven. Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Shape the cookies. Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of dough per cookie. Roll into balls and place on the baking sheet.
Create an indentation. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently press a small well into the center of each cookie.
Add filling. Spoon about ½ teaspoon of raspberry jam into each indentation. If using fresh raspberries, lightly press a small piece into the jam.
Add crumble topping. Crumble a small pinch of leftover dough over the top for a rustic finish.
Bake and finish. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely, then sprinkle with the reserved tablespoon of powdered sugar.
Tips
Use room temperature butter for smooth creaming.
Do not skip chilling; it prevents spreading.
Measure flour properly by spooning and leveling.
Avoid overfilling with jam to prevent overflow.
Rotate the baking tray halfway for even baking.
If jam is thick, stir it before spooning.
For clean edges, wipe spoon between each indentation.
Let cookies cool fully before dusting with sugar.
Use high-quality jam for best flavor.
Store in a single layer to maintain their shape.
Variations
Swap raspberry jam for strawberry or apricot preserves.
Add lemon zest to the dough for brightness.
Drizzle melted white chocolate over cooled cookies.
Use blackberry jam for a deeper berry flavor.
Add finely chopped pistachios to the crumble topping.
Replace almond extract with coconut extract for a twist.
Make mini bite-sized versions for party platters.
Add a thin layer of cream cheese under the jam.
Sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking.
Use homemade raspberry compote instead of jam.
Q&A
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate up to 48 hours before baking.
Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, freeze baked cookies in an airtight container up to 2 months.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
The dough may not have been chilled long enough.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce or omit added salt.
Do I need fresh raspberries?
No, they are optional for extra texture.
How do I prevent jam from bubbling over?
Use a small amount and keep the indentation deep enough.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
How do I get soft centers?
Avoid overbaking and remove when edges just turn golden.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients.
What pairs well with these cookies?
They go beautifully with tea or coffee.
Nutrition
(Approximate per cookie)
Calories: 170
Protein: 2 g
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 23 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g
Sodium: 35 mg
Values will vary depending on jam and portion size.
Conclusion
Buttery Bliss Raspberry Crumble Cookies are a perfect blend of rich, tender dough and bright fruit filling. They are simple to prepare yet look impressive enough for gatherings and special occasions. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and vibrant raspberry center, these cookies offer classic comfort in every bite. Once you bake a batch, they may quickly become a favorite recipe you return to again and again.