Christmas Raspberry Cream Cookies
Table of Contents
The gentle hum of holiday tunes fills the kitchen, their melodies weaving through the air like the warm scent of cookies baking in the oven. As I stand here, a swirl of flour dusting my apron, I’m transported back to the cozy Christmases of my childhood. Each year, my family would gather around the kitchen table, cheeks rosy from the chill outside, as we crafted cookies that embodied the spirit of the season. Today, I’m delighted to share a treasured recipe that has become a staple in our home: Christmas Raspberry Cream Cookies. These delightful bites capture the sweet-tart raspberry flavor and creamy texture, making them a festive treat that disappears faster than Santa’s sleigh!
These cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a heartwarming experience. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, luscious cookie that embodies the essence of holiday cheer. These cookies bring loved ones together, creating lasting memories with each bite. They’re as fun to make as they are to eat, perfect for little hands eager to help decorate. Plus, they’re a versatile addition to any holiday spread, satisfying both the young and young-at-heart. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned baker, these cookies are as easy to make as they are delightful to share.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
Christmas Raspberry Cream Cookies are a treat that brings warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. Here are a few heartfelt reasons why these cookies should grace your table this Christmas:
- Nostalgic Comfort: These cookies take you on a trip down memory lane, invoking the cozy, comforting feeling of family gatherings and childhood Christmases. Each bite is a reminder of those happy times, making them a nostalgic indulgence.
- Simple Joy: With just a few easy steps, you can create a batch of cookies that look and taste like they came from a bakery, all while enjoying the simple pleasure of baking. The satisfaction of seeing a golden tray emerge from the oven is unparalleled.
- Family Bonding: This recipe is perfect for involving your little helpers in the kitchen, turning baking into a cherished family activity. Kids love to help with making thumbprints in the dough and filling them with jam, making it a fun and interactive process.
- Festive Delight: The combination of creamy and tart flavors delivers a festive punch, making these cookies an instant hit at any holiday party. Their vibrant color and unique taste make them stand out on any dessert table.
- Versatile Treat: Serve them at your holiday gathering, gift them to friends, or enjoy them with a warm cup of cocoa by the fireplace. They are also a thoughtful homemade gift, perfect for cookie swaps or as a sweet surprise for neighbors.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Creating these delightful cookies is a breeze with the right tools by your side. Here’s a list of must-have kitchen companions to make your baking experience seamless and enjoyable:
- Mixing Bowls: A set of large and medium bowls will help you manage your wet and dry ingredients with ease. Stainless steel or glass bowls are ideal as they are durable and easy to clean.
- Electric Mixer: Whether handheld or stand, an electric mixer will make creaming the butter and sugar effortless. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture, as it ensures the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking, so ensure you have a reliable set for accuracy. Consider using digital scales for even more precise measurements, especially for flour.
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet lined with parchment paper will prevent sticking and ensure even baking. Silicone baking mats are a great alternative, providing a reusable non-stick surface.
- Cooling Rack: Allow your cookies to cool evenly and maintain their perfect texture by transferring them to a cooling rack once baked. This prevents them from becoming soggy by letting air circulate around them.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
INGREDIENTS
- ½ cup butter, softened
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup raspberry jam
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, giving your cookies a tender texture.
- Mix in the egg and vanilla until well combined. The vanilla adds a subtle depth of flavor while the egg acts as a binder.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually stir into the wet mixture until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop to portion the dough.
- Use your thumb to create a small well in the center of each cookie and fill with a dollop of raspberry jam. The jam should be thick to prevent it from spreading too much during baking.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t overbake.
- Transfer to a cooling rack and allow to cool completely before serving. This helps them firm up and develop their full flavor.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 15 minutes • Cooking Time: 12 minutes • Total Time: 27 minutes • Calories: 120 per cookie • Servings: 24
Note: For a different twist, try swapping raspberry jam with your favorite berry preserve! Strawberry or blackberry jams are excellent alternatives, each bringing their own unique flavor profile.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
Embracing the simplicity of fresh ingredients not only enhances flavor but also offers some health benefits. Here’s a peek into the goodness packed into each cookie:
- Butter and Cream Cheese: These ingredients add richness and a creamy texture, creating the perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience. They also provide essential fats that contribute to satiety.
- Raspberry Jam: Bursting with antioxidants, raspberries add a sweet-tart flavor that complements the creaminess of the cookies beautifully. They also provide vitamin C and fiber, making them a slightly healthier indulgence.
- Flour: Provides structure to the cookies, making them delightfully chewy and satisfying. For an added nutritional boost, consider using whole wheat pastry flour.
- Egg: A natural binder, eggs contribute to the moist and tender crumb. They also provide protein, adding to the nutritional content of the cookies.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
Pairing these cookies with the right accompaniments can elevate your holiday experience:
- Warm Beverages: Serve with hot cocoa or spiced cider to enhance the cookies’ festive flavors. The warmth and spices in these drinks complement the sweet-tart notes perfectly.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses will complement the cookies’ sweet-tart notes. Consider pairing them with Brie or Camembert for a sophisticated touch.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the cookies. Include citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruit for a zesty contrast.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
These cookies are as easy to store as they are to make, ensuring you can savor them long after your first batch:
- Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain their soft texture, consider adding a slice of bread to the container.
- Freezing: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. This is ideal for making them ahead of time for holiday events.
- Revive: To enjoy that freshly baked taste, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for a few minutes. This revives their aroma and gives them a just-baked feel.
There’s something magical about baking that brings us closer together, especially during the holidays. These Christmas Raspberry Cream Cookies are more than just a recipe; they’re an invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and create memories with those you love. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the sweet, comforting aroma of homemade cookies fill your home with joy.
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Christmas Raspberry Cream Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet.
- Cream butter, cream cheese, and sugar until fluffy.
- Mix in egg and vanilla.
- Whisk flour and baking powder, then stir into wet mix.
- Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are golden.
