If there’s a cookie that feels like a warm hug and brightens any coffee break, it’s these Almond Crescents with Raspberry Jam Recipe. Delicately buttery crescents studded with crunchy almonds come together in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the luscious raspberry jam in the center gives that perfect burst of sweet and tart flavor. Each bite is beautifully dusted with powdered sugar, making these treats irresistible in both taste and appearance. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because, this recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Almond Crescents with Raspberry Jam Recipe is wonderfully simple, relying on a handful of straightforward ingredients that come together to create unforgettable flavor and texture. Each component plays a special role, from the creamy softness of butter to the fruity brightness of raspberry jam, and the satisfying crunch of almonds.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This is the rich and creamy base that makes your cookies tender and buttery.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness and helps achieve that light, fluffy dough texture.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract: Elevates the nutty flavor, enhancing the almonds and bringing harmony to the cookie.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The essential structure builder for the dough, giving these crescents their delicate crumb.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds: Adds delightful crunch and authentic almond flavor right in the body of the cookie.
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam: The jewel of the recipe, adding a sweet and tangy center that makes each bite pop.
- Powdered sugar for dusting: Gives the final elegant touch—a snowy finish that makes these cookies look as good as they taste.
How to Make Almond Crescents with Raspberry Jam Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Start by beating the softened butter and powdered sugar together in a mixing bowl until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the dough, helping the cookies achieve that tender, melt-in-your-mouth bite you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Add the Almond Extract
Once your butter-sugar blend is perfectly creamy, stir in the almond extract. Almond extract is the secret ingredient that boosts the nutty flavor and blends beautifully with the chopped almonds, giving these crescents their signature taste.
Step 3: Mix in Flour and Chopped Almonds
Gradually add the all-purpose flour along with the finely chopped almonds to the wet mixture. Use a gentle folding or mixing technique until the dough just comes together — you want to avoid overworking it so the cookies stay tender and crumbly.
Step 4: Shape the Crescents
Take small portions of the dough and shape them into delicate crescents. The crescent shape gives these cookies their charming look and subtly increases their surface area, perfect for holding onto a little jam dollop later on.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Arrange the crescents on a baking sheet and pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. You’ll know they’re ready when their aroma fills your kitchen with that irresistible nutty, buttery smell.
Step 6: Add the Raspberry Jam
Once out of the oven and slightly cooled, make a small indentation in the center of each cookie. Fill that cozy little well with a spoonful of raspberry jam—this is where the sweet-and-tart magic happens.
Step 7: Dust with Powdered Sugar
The finishing touch is a generous dusting of powdered sugar. Not only does this create a beautiful presentation, but it also adds a subtle additional sweetness that perfectly balances the jam and almond flavors.
How to Serve Almond Crescents with Raspberry Jam Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive feel, you can add a few slivered almonds on top of the jam before dusting with powdered sugar. A fresh raspberry placed on top of each cookie makes for a lovely pop of color and freshness that guests will love.
Side Dishes
These almond crescents pair beautifully with a light cup of tea, a frothy cappuccino, or even a glass of chilled dessert wine. Consider serving with fresh berries or a simple fruit salad for a complete, charming tea-time spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange them on a tiered cake stand for an elegant display or package them in decorative tins with parchment paper to gift to friends and neighbors. These cookies also look delightful nestled among holiday greenery or wrapped individually with colorful ribbons for personal touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Almond Crescents with Raspberry Jam Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crisp and fresh for up to a week. Avoid refrigerating as this can dry them out.
Freezing
If you want to save these cookies for a special occasion, you can freeze them after baking but before adding jam and powdered sugar. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Add jam and powdered sugar after thawing.
Reheating
Warm the cookies briefly in a low oven (around 300°F for 5 minutes) to refresh their buttery aroma and soften the edges. Avoid microwaving to maintain their delicate texture and prevent the powdered sugar from melting away.
FAQs
Can I substitute almond extract with vanilla extract?
While vanilla extract will work in a pinch, almond extract is key to really capturing the nutty essence of these crescents. Using almond extract gives the cookies their character and pairs best with the chopped almonds and raspberry jam.
Is it possible to use other types of jam?
Absolutely! While raspberry jam is classic and gives a lovely tart contrast, you can experiment with apricot, strawberry, or even cherry jam to customize the flavor to your liking.
Can I use roasted almonds instead of raw?
Yes, roasted almonds will add an extra depth of flavor, enhancing the nutty notes of the cookies. Just be sure they’re finely chopped so they blend well in the dough and provide the right crunch without overwhelming.
How can I make the cookies less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet treat, reduce the powdered sugar slightly or use a tart, less sugary raspberry jam. Be mindful that the powdered sugar dusting contributes to the overall flavor and visual appeal.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This particular Almond Crescents with Raspberry Jam Recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, try substituting with a gluten-free baking flour blend, but note the texture may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Almond Crescents with Raspberry Jam Recipe that makes it a timeless treat to bake and share. The combination of buttery dough, crunchy almonds, and bright jam creates a harmony of flavor and texture that delights every time. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe—it’s one of those simple pleasures that brings warmth and joy with every bite.
Print
Almond Crescents with Raspberry Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Almond Crescents with Raspberry Jam are delicate, buttery cookies flavored with almond extract and topped with a sweet raspberry jam center. Soft yet crisp, they are perfect for holiday treats or anytime you want a charming, nutty bite with a burst of fruity sweetness.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds
Filling and Topping
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth base for your dough.
- Add Almond Extract: Mix in the almond extract thoroughly to infuse a subtle, aromatic almond flavor throughout the dough.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and the finely chopped almonds to the mixture, blending just until the dough forms a cohesive ball, careful not to overmix.
- Shape Crescents: Take portions of the dough and gently shape them into crescent forms, then place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for even baking.
- Bake Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the shaped cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn a delicate golden color, indicating they are perfectly baked.
- Add Raspberry Jam: Once baked, let the cookies cool slightly. Using your finger or a small tool, press a shallow indentation into the center of each cookie, then fill each with a spoonful of raspberry jam for a sweet, fruity contrast.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Finally, dust the tops of the cookies generously with powdered sugar for an elegant finish and added sweetness before serving.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
- Be gentle when mixing the flour and almonds to avoid tough cookies.
- Use high-quality raspberry jam for the best flavor impact.
- Let the cookies cool enough so the jam doesn’t melt but is still soft to spread.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness up to 5 days.
