Valentines Treats Raspberry Almond Cookies

Name: Valentines Treats Raspberry Almond Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh raspberries, lightly mashed; 3/4 cup sliced almonds

Highlighted under: Baked Collection

I love making these Raspberry Almond Cookies for Valentine's Day; the combination of tart raspberries and nutty almond flavor is simply irresistible. The process is enjoyable, as I get to bake these cookies with my loved ones, creating lasting memories in the kitchen. Plus, they make fantastic gifts! With an easy-to-follow recipe, even novice bakers can delight in this treat that offers both a satisfying crunch and a chewy center. I guarantee these will become your go-to Valentine’s treat!

Created by

Hester Lockwood

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:25:34.814Z

When I first made these Raspberry Almond Cookies, I was amazed at how perfectly the flavors complemented each other. The almonds provide a richness that balances the bright, tart raspberries, making each bite memorable. I also discovered that adding a little almond extract enhances that nutty flavor, bringing everything together!

While experimenting with different baking times, I found that a shorter bake yields cookies that are chewy on the inside and golden on the outside. This is the perfect texture that my family loves, and I can't wait to share them with friends this Valentine's Day!

Why You'll Love These Cookies
Delicious tartness from fresh raspberries
Nutty almond flavor that enhances every bite
Perfectly chewy texture with a delicate crunch

The Role of Raspberries and Almonds

In this recipe, fresh raspberries play a critical role by infusing each cookie with their vibrant tartness. The key is to use ripe, fresh raspberries for the best flavor. During the mixing process, you'll want to lightly mash them. This helps to release their juices, creating a delightful burst of flavor in each cookie. If fresh raspberries are unavailable, you can substitute with frozen raspberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them beforehand to minimize excess moisture in your dough.

Sliced almonds add a unique nutty flavor that complements the tartness of the raspberries beautifully. Their texture contributes to both the crunch and chewiness of the cookie. For a deeper almond flavor, consider toasting the sliced almonds lightly in a dry skillet until golden before adding them to the dough. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as it only takes a few minutes.

Perfecting Chewy Texture

Achieving the ideal texture in these cookies comes down to the creaming process and the balance of ingredients. When creaming the butter and sugars, beat them until fluffy, which incorporates air into the dough. This step is crucial for creating that light, chewy texture. If you overmix the flour into the wet ingredients, the cookies can turn out dense and tough, so it's best to mix until just combined.

The choice of flour also affects the final product. Using all-purpose flour here provides the right amount of structure and chew without making the cookies too dense. If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but be sure it contains xanthan gum to help mimic the texture of traditional flour.

Storage and Enjoying Later

These Raspberry Almond Cookies store very well, making them perfect for baking in advance. To keep them fresh, place cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to extend their shelf life, cookies can also be refrigerated for about a week. Just be aware that refrigeration may alter their texture slightly, making them a bit firmer.

If you have extra cookies or want to prepare a batch for later, consider freezing them. To freeze, lay cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven for a few minutes to restore their chewy center.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh raspberries, lightly mashed
3/4 cup sliced almonds

Instructions

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Extracts

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla and almond extracts until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the mashed raspberries and sliced almonds.

Shape and Bake

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them a few inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Serve

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

Pro Tips

For a sweeter treat, consider drizzling melted chocolate on top of the cooled cookies for an extra special touch.

Tips for Success

Make sure the butter is adequately softened to room temperature before starting. This ensures a smooth and effective creaming process. If you're short on time, you can cut the butter into smaller pieces and microwave it in short bursts of 10 seconds to soften without melting it. You want it soft enough to make an imprint with your finger but not melted, which could ruin the texture of the cookies.

Be vigilant when baking the cookies; ovens can vary. Start checking for doneness around the 10-minute mark. The cookies should have lightly golden edges but should look slightly soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool, creating that perfect chewy yet crunchy texture.

Variations to Try

To give these cookies an extra twist, try mixing in white chocolate chips or drizzling melted chocolate on top for added richness. The sweetness of white chocolate contrasts nicely with the tartness of raspberries, elevating the overall flavor profile. You could also experiment by adding a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon to the dough for a subtle spiced flavor.

If you'd like a nut-free version, simply replace the sliced almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. This substitution maintains a crunchy element without compromising the integrity of the treat, allowing even those with nut allergies to enjoy a delicious Valentine’s cookie.

Sharing and Gifting

These Raspberry Almond Cookies not only make a delightful snack for yourself but are also perfect for sharing. Consider packaging them in decorative tins or boxes to create a beautiful gift for friends or family. Tying them up with a lovely ribbon adds a personal touch that enhances the gifting experience, especially for Valentine’s Day.

For a fun presentation, you could assemble a cookie platter with these and other favorite treats. Pairing them with shortbread or chocolate-dipped fruits can create a festive atmosphere for gatherings or celebrations, making everyone feel loved and cherished during the holiday.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries; just ensure they're thawed and drained of excess moisture before adding to the dough.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

→ Can I substitute other nuts for almonds?

Absolutely! You can replace almonds with pecans or walnuts for a different flavor profile.

→ Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and the cookies will still turn out delicious.