Raspberry Cookies

These Raspberry Cookies are the ultimate treat for any occasion! With their soft and chewy texture, these eggless sugar cookies made with frozen raspberries are an irresistible delight. They have a fluffy middle and crunchy edges, creating the perfect balance of flavors. The tartness from the raspberries pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookie base. Best of all, they are gluten-free, nut-free, and easily vegan! Unlike many eggless cookies that can go stale quickly, these stay soft for days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor – The combination of sweet sugar and tart raspberry creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Treat – Perfect for parties, school lunches, or just a cozy afternoon snack.
• Diet-Friendly – Gluten-free and nut-free options make this recipe suitable for more dietary preferences.
• Long-Lasting Freshness – These cookies remain soft and chewy longer than most eggless varieties.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl – A sturdy bowl is essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Baking sheet – A quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

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 Mixture

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or vegan baking stick, room temperature)
• 1 1/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 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)
• 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 ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

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. 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 together unsalted butter (or vegan stick) with granulated sugar until fluffy.
2. Slowly add in the cornstarch-water mixture while continuing to mix.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add milk and raspberry syrup to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until combined.

Step 6: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet ingredients:
1. Stir gently until just combined.
2. Fold in chopped frozen raspberries gently.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon:
1. Drop dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake for about 15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.

Step 8: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delightful Raspberry Cookies, perfect for any sweet craving!

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 offer versatility in serving options.

With Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy your Raspberry Cookies alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. The tartness of the raspberries pairs beautifully with both beverages.

As Dessert Sandwiches

• Create dessert sandwiches by spreading a layer of raspberry syrup between two cookies. This adds an extra burst of flavor and makes for a fun presentation.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve your cookies with a side of fresh berries. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a colorful touch to your plate.

At Parties

• Place Raspberry Cookies on a dessert platter at gatherings. They make for eye-catching treats that guests will love.

With Ice Cream

• Top each cookie with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent dessert. The cold ice cream complements the chewy texture of the cookies nicely.

How to Perfect Raspberry Cookies

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

• Use Frozen Raspberries: Frozen raspberries maintain their shape during baking, adding bursts of tartness without making the dough too wet.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right texture and flavor balance. Use a kitchen scale if possible.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the cookie dough for 30 minutes helps prevent spreading and results in thicker, chewier cookies.
• Rotate Baking Sheets: Halfway through baking, rotate your baking sheets to ensure even cooking. This helps achieve that perfect golden edge.
• Experiment with Sweetness: Adjust sugar levels according to taste preference; less sugar can enhance the tartness of the raspberries.

Best Side Dishes for Raspberry Cookies

Raspberry Cookies pair well with several side dishes that complement their sweet and tart flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and fluffy coconut cream adds a deliciously creamy texture that balances the cookies’ sweetness.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides brightness and freshness, enhancing your dessert experience.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over your cookies creates an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist.
4. Almond Milk: A glass of chilled almond milk complements the flavors while keeping it dairy-free and light.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer raspberry yogurt with granola for a crunchy contrast that pairs well with the soft cookies.
6. Nut Butter Dip: Serve with almond or cashew butter for added richness and protein, making it a more filling snack option.
7. Caramel Sauce: For those who enjoy sweet indulgence, caramel sauce offers a rich, buttery flavor that pairs nicely with raspberry’s tartness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Raspberry Cookies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Incorrect Measuring: Not measuring flour accurately can lead to dry or crumbly cookies. Use a kitchen scale or spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for best results.
• Overmixing Dough: Mixing the dough too long can make your cookies tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or milk can affect how well the cookies spread. Make sure to bring your butter and other ingredients to room temperature before mixing.
• Ignoring Baking Times: Every oven is different, and baking times may vary. Start checking your cookies a couple of minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.
• Not Cooling Properly: Skipping the cooling step can result in cookies that are too soft or fall apart. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Raspberry Cookies

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• To freeze, layer them with parchment paper between each cookie.

Reheating Raspberry Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individually on low power for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a warm skillet covered with a lid for about 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Raspberry Cookies that might help you in your baking journey.

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of frozen?

Fresh raspberries can be used, but they may contribute more moisture. If using fresh, consider reducing other liquids slightly.

How do I make these Raspberry Cookies vegan?

Simply substitute the unsalted butter with a vegan butter alternative and use plant-based milk instead of regular milk.

What if my dough is too sticky?

If you find the dough too sticky, add a bit more gluten-free flour until it reaches a manageable consistency.

How do I customize my Raspberry Cookies?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or different fruit purees into the batter for varied flavors!

Final Thoughts

These Raspberry Cookies offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Soft yet chewy, they’re perfect as an everyday treat or for special occasions. Customize them with your favorite mix-ins for even more delicious variations! Try making them today and enjoy their delightful taste!