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Golden raspberry jam drop cookies with jam centers on a baking tray.

Raspberry Jam Drops Recipe | Classic Buttery Cookies

Bake raspberry jam drops for a classic homemade treat. Buttery cookies with a sweet raspberry jam center — perfect for afternoon tea, holiday baking, or a nostalgic dessert.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack, Tea Time Treat
Cuisine Classic home baking, European-inspired
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 110 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
  • Wire cooling rack

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup caster sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup raspberry jam (seedless or homemade)
  • Optional: 1 tsp lemon zest or ½ tsp almond extract
  • Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions
 

  • Cream butter and sugar: Beat butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
  • Add egg and vanilla: Mix in egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Mix in flour: Gradually add flour, stirring until a soft dough forms. Add lemon zest or almond extract if desired.
  • Chill dough: Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm up.
  • Shape cookies: Roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls and place on a lined baking sheet.
  • Make indentations: Press a thumb or spoon into the center of each ball to create a well.
  • Fill with jam: Spoon ½ teaspoon raspberry jam into each indentation.
  • Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden.
  • Cool and finish: Cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

  • Tip: Chill dough before shaping to prevent spreading.
  • Make-ahead: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months; bake from frozen with 2 extra minutes.
  • Variations: Use different jams, chocolate, or nutty dough for creative twists.
  • Serving idea: Pair with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
Keyword holiday cookies, raspberry jam drops, tea-time baking, thumbprint cookies