These Raspberry Cheesecake Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful combination of buttery shortbread cookies, creamy cheesecake filling, and a luscious raspberry center. They’re perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something sweet and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Decadent flavors: A rich blend of buttery cookies, tangy cheesecake, and fruity raspberry.
Festive appearance: Perfect for parties and gift-giving.
Easy to make: Simple steps with impressive results.
Customizable: Swap out raspberry for other fruit preserves or jams.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

Unsalted butter: Softened, for a rich and buttery base.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.
Egg yolks: For richness and structure.
Vanilla extract: Enhances flavor.
All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cookies.
Salt: Balances the sweetness.

For the Cheesecake Filling:

Cream cheese: Softened, for the smooth, tangy filling.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling without grittiness.
Vanilla extract: Complements the tang of the cream cheese.

For the Raspberry Center:

Raspberry preserves or jam: The fruity touch for the center of the cookies.
Optional: Fresh raspberries: For garnish or extra flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Gradually stir in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each, and place them on the baking sheet.
Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to create an indent in the center of each cookie.

Step 5: Assemble the Cookies

Spoon a small amount of the cheesecake filling into the indent of each cookie.
Top the cheesecake filling with a dollop of raspberry preserves.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Tips for Success

Room temperature ingredients: Ensure the butter and cream cheese are softened for a smooth dough and filling.
Chill the dough: This prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Use a piping bag: For a neat and precise cheesecake filling.
Experiment with flavors: Swap raspberry preserves for strawberry, apricot, or even chocolate spread.

Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze unassembled cookies and fill them after thawing to maintain the best texture.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A1: Regular cream cheese is recommended for a richer and creamier filling, but low-fat can be used if needed.

Q2: Can I substitute the raspberry preserves?
A2: Yes, you can use any jam or preserve you like, such as strawberry, blueberry, or apricot.

Q3: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! The dough can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 1 month.

Q4: How can I prevent the cookies from spreading?
A4: Ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking and avoid over-creaming the butter and sugar.

Q5: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A5: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for best results.

Q6: Can I add fresh raspberries to the cookies?
A6: Yes! Place a small piece of fresh raspberry on top of the jam for extra flavor and decoration.

Q7: Can I freeze the baked cookies?
A7: You can freeze baked cookies without the cheesecake filling and jam for up to 1 month. Add the filling and preserves after thawing.

Q8: What’s the best way to create the thumbprint indent?
A8: Use your thumb, a small spoon, or the rounded end of a kitchen tool for even indentations.

Q9: How can I make the cookies more festive?
A9: Sprinkle them with powdered sugar or edible glitter for a holiday touch.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes, this recipe doubles well. Just make sure to chill the dough in batches if your fridge space is limited.

Enjoy these elegant and flavorful cookies at your next gathering or as a sweet treat any day!