Raspberry Cookies

These Raspberry Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion! Soft and chewy, these eggless sugar cookies use frozen raspberries to create a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness. With their fluffy centers and crunchy edges, they’re not only delicious but also gluten-free, nut-free, and easily vegan! Enjoy them at parties, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet snack at home. Plus, unlike many eggless cookies, these remain soft for days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tart raspberries and sweet cookie dough makes for an irresistible treat.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions mean anyone can whip these up!
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a party or a cozy night in.
• Diet-Friendly: These cookies are gluten-free, nut-free, and can easily be made vegan.
• Long-Lasting Freshness: Unlike other eggless cookies, these stay soft for days.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Raspberry Cookies, gather your essential tools. Having everything you need on hand will streamline the process and make baking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for cookies to bake evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Whisk: Helps blend dry ingredients smoothly for uniform texture.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Raspberry Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup frozen raspberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups multipurpose gluten free flour (I use a gluten free multipurpose flour with xanthan gum already in it)
• 1.5 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or vegan baking stick, room temperature)
• 1 1/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Raspberry Mixture

• 2 rounded 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)
• 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) to ensure even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. The multipurpose gluten-free flour.
2. Cornstarch.
3. Baking powder.
4. Kosher salt.
Whisk together until well mixed.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl:
1. Beat the unsalted butter (or vegan stick) with granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the dry mixture while mixing continuously.

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients

Incorporate:
1. The cornstarch-water mixture.
2. Milk.
3. Raspberry syrup.
4. Red food coloring.
Mix until fully combined.

Step 6: Fold in Raspberries

Gently fold in both whole frozen raspberries and chopped ones into the dough until evenly distributed.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop large amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.

Step 9: Cool

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

Enjoy your freshly baked Raspberry Cookies! They are sure to be a hit!

How to Serve Raspberry Cookies

Raspberry Cookies are delightful on their own, but they can be even more enjoyable when paired with the right accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic treat. The creaminess complements the tartness of the raspberries perfectly.

As an Ice Cream Sandwich

• Use two Raspberry Cookies to sandwich your favorite dairy-free ice cream. This creates a deliciously refreshing dessert that’s great for warm days.

Warmed Up

• Heat the cookies slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This brings out their flavors and gives them a soft texture that feels freshly baked.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside fresh raspberries or mixed berries for added flavor and texture. This enhances the fruity notes in the cookies.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dust your Raspberry Cookies with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. It adds sweetness and visual appeal.

How to Perfect Raspberry Cookies

Creating perfect Raspberry Cookies requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use Frozen Raspberries: Frozen raspberries maintain their shape better during baking, adding bursts of flavor without becoming mushy.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and results in thicker cookies.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use a spoon to scoop flour into your measuring cup, then level it off for precise measurement. This prevents overly dry cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when done.

Best Side Dishes for Raspberry Cookies

Raspberry Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their fruity flavor. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits can add freshness and brightness to your dessert table, complementing the raspberry flavor beautifully.

2. Coconut Whipped Cream
   This dairy-free alternative provides a creamy texture that balances the tartness of the cookies, making every bite indulgent.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a nutritious side that offers contrasting textures alongside your cookies.

4. Chocolate Drizzle
   A drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate over each cookie can create a rich contrast to the tart raspberries, enhancing their appeal.

5. Herbal Tea
   Serve with a warm cup of herbal tea like chamomile or mint. The soothing flavors provide a relaxing experience that pairs well with sweets.

6. Nut-Free Granola Bars
   These offer a crunchy, sweet contrast to the soft texture of Raspberry Cookies while remaining nut-free, making them suitable for various dietary needs.

7. Cheese Alternatives
   Dairy-free cheese spreads or slices can provide savory notes that counterbalance the sweetness of the cookies nicely, creating an exciting flavor combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Raspberry Cookies can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Incorrect flour measurement: Using too much or too little flour can change the cookie’s texture. Always use a kitchen scale or spoon the flour into your measuring cup before leveling off.
• Not softening the butter: If your butter isn’t at room temperature, the cookies may not spread properly. Make sure to let it sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for soft and chewy Raspberry Cookies.
• Ignoring the chill time: Skipping or shortening the chilling time can affect how your cookies spread and their final texture. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Using frozen raspberries directly: Adding frozen raspberries without chopping them may create large pockets of moisture in your cookies. Chop them into tiny pieces for even distribution.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Freezing Raspberry Cookies

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Raspberry Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Raspberry Cookies:

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh raspberries, but they may require adjustments in baking time as they release more moisture.

How do I make these Raspberry Cookies gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free multipurpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum, as indicated in the recipe.

Are these Raspberry Cookies vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! Substitute regular butter with a vegan baking stick and use plant-based milk.

Can I customize my Raspberry Cookies?

Yes! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or other berries for extra flavor and texture.

How do I ensure my Raspberry Cookies stay soft?

Properly store them in an airtight container and avoid overbaking them during cooking.

Final Thoughts

These Raspberry Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. With their soft centers and crunchy edges, they make a perfect treat any time of day. Don’t hesitate to try different flavors or add-ins to personalize your batch!