Raspberry Cookies

These Raspberry Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. Made with frozen raspberries, these cookies are soft and chewy with a crispy edge, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a special event, or just treating yourself on a cozy afternoon, these cookies will surely impress. Plus, they’re gluten-free, nut-free, and easily vegan, ensuring everyone can enjoy them. The best part? These cookies stay soft for days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and quick, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tart raspberries and sweet cookie dough creates a mouthwatering taste you can’t resist.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, picnics, or simple snacks at home; they’re versatile enough for any occasion.
• Diet-Friendly: These Raspberry Cookies cater to various dietary needs as they are gluten-free and nut-free.
• Long-Lasting Freshness: Unlike many eggless cookies that become stale quickly, these keep their softness for several days.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the best Raspberry Cookies, having the right tools is essential. Below is a list of items you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even baking and helps prevent cookies from burning.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper makes cleanup easier and prevents cookies from sticking.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

• 1 cup frozen raspberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups gluten free flour (I use a 1:1 gluten free multipurpose flour with xanthan gum already in it)
• 1.5 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Dough

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or vegan baking stick, room temperature)
• 1 1/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Mixture

• 2 heaping tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 3 tablespoons raspberry syrup
• 3 drops red food coloring (I use McCormick. You may need less if you’re using a gel or paste)

For Garnish

• 1/2 cup frozen raspberries (chopped into tiny pieces)

How to Make Raspberry Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Gluten free flour
2. Cornstarch
3. Baking powder
4. Kosher salt

Whisk together until well blended.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the milk, raspberry syrup, food coloring, and cornstarch mixture to the butter-sugar blend. Mix until smooth.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined. Fold in frozen raspberries gently.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Scoop out large spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 9: Cool Down

Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Enjoy your delicious Raspberry Cookies!

How to Serve Raspberry Cookies

Raspberry Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon snack, these cookies pair beautifully with different accompaniments.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that enhances the sweetness and tartness of the cookies. Choose your favorite milk—dairy, almond, or oat!

As an Ice Cream Sandwich

• Place a scoop of vanilla or raspberry ice cream between two cookies for a refreshing dessert. This combo is perfect for hot summer days.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream adds an extra layer of sweetness. You can also sprinkle some fresh raspberries on top for added flavor.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of melted chocolate over the cookies creates a rich contrast to the tart raspberries. This indulgence elevates any snack time.

Served at Tea Time

• Enjoy these cookies with a cup of tea or coffee. The flavors complement each other well, creating a cozy afternoon experience.

How to Perfect Raspberry Cookies

To make sure your Raspberry Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Frozen Raspberries: They maintain their shape better during baking and offer a burst of flavor without making the dough too wet.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your gluten-free flour for accurate measurements. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
• Chill the Dough: Letting the cookie dough chill for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading and leads to thicker cookies.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. Remove them from the oven when they are just set but still soft in the center.
• Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding vanilla extract or lemon zest to enhance the overall taste of your Raspberry Cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Raspberry Cookies

When serving Raspberry Cookies, consider pairing them with these delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded treat experience.

1. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad brings brightness and compliments the tartness of the raspberries in the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, particularly creamy brie or tangy goat cheese, balances sweetness and savory flavors beautifully.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for a fun treat that kids and adults alike will love!
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a delightful breakfast option alongside your cookies.
5. Nutty Granola Bars: These bars add crunch and nutty flavors that contrast nicely with the soft texture of Raspberry Cookies.
6. Mini Muffins: Serve assorted mini muffins (like blueberry or banana) as bite-sized treats that pair well with your cookies’ sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Raspberry Cookies, it’s easy to make small errors that can affect the final outcome. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape. Don’t skip this step!
• Using fresh raspberries: Fresh raspberries can make the dough too wet. Always use frozen raspberries for the best texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale or fluff up the flour before scooping it.
• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like butter should be at room temperature for even mixing. Plan ahead to avoid cold lumps in your dough.
• Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be soft in the center and slightly golden on the edges.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Raspberry Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will remain fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Raspberry Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Raspberry Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, warming each cookie for about 30 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Raspberry Cookies?

Raspberry Cookies are soft and chewy sugar cookies made with frozen raspberries. They combine sweet and tart flavors for a delicious treat.

Can I make these Raspberry Cookies vegan?

Yes! You can easily make these Raspberry Cookies vegan by using a vegan butter substitute and plant-based milk.

How do I know when my Raspberry Cookies are done baking?

Your Raspberry Cookies are done when they are slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the middle. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I use other fruits instead of raspberries?

Absolutely! You can substitute other berries or fruits, but keep in mind that moisture levels may change, affecting texture.

Final Thoughts

These delectable Raspberry Cookies offer a wonderful balance of sweetness and tartness, making them perfect for any occasion. They are also versatile; feel free to customize by adding nuts or different flavors. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!