Raspberry Almond Vegan Thumbprint Cookies

These little cookies are the most delicious holiday treat, and they must be made at least once every year! They are so vibrant, thanks to the raspberry center, and have that perfect shortbread cookie crunch in every bite. Made with very few ingredients, this is about as simple as a cookie recipe gets. I adapted these raspberry almond thumbprints from my vegan shortbread cookies, by adding a little almond extract, making an indentation and filling with raspberry jam. The icing drizzle is completely optional, but it makes them fancy without much effort. Everyone will adore them! I have a similar recipe for lemon shortbread cookies made with lemon curd that are perfect in the spring or summer. If you love raspberry flavored desserts, you should check out this simple recipe for Vegan Raspberry Bars, one of my personal all time favorites.

How to make vegan thumbprint cookies

(This is simply an overview with photos, scroll down to find the complete, printable recipe.)

Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 10 minutes, then bake in the oven for 15-16 minutes. Freezing first helps the cookies not spread while baking, so i don’t recommend skipping it. The cookies won’t look done and they will be very light in color still, not brown at all. They firm up a ton as they cool, so don’t over bake and burn them. Let them cool on the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Once cool, drizzle with easy icing.

Tips for success

Use vegan butter that is softened, but not at all melted. If it’s too cold, the dough will have a hard time coming together, but if it’s melted, your cookies will spread in the oven. Just softened is what you want. Measure your flour correctly, by using the spoon and level method. Spoon flour into a measuring cup, don’t shake it down or pat it, then level off the top with a knife. Use seedless jam – Unless you don’t mind seeds. You can also use a variety of jams or fillings, such as apricot, strawberry, blueberry or even vegan caramel or ganache.

How to store

Store leftover cookies in a covered container at room temperature for 5-6 days. Or freeze them for longer, they are wonderful straight out of the freezer.