Save to Pinterest A festive cookie platter shaped like a wreath, featuring tender butter cookies filled with vibrant raspberry jam and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar—perfect for holidays or special occasions.
This recipe has become a holiday favorite in my family, loved for its festive look and delightful taste.
Ingredients
- Cookie Dough: 225 g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened, 150 g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional), 320 g (2 2/3 cups) all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt
- Filling & Decoration: 150 g (1/2 cup) raspberry jam (seedless preferred), 30 g (1/4 cup) powdered sugar, for dusting, 2 tbsp freeze dried raspberries, crushed (optional, for garnish), Fresh mint leaves or edible flowers (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).
- Step 3:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
- Step 4:
- Divide the dough in half. Roll each half between two sheets of parchment to about 5 mm (1/4 inch) thickness. Chill for 15 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Using a round or fluted 6–8 cm (2.5–3 inch) cookie cutter, cut out cookies. Use a smaller cutter (2–3 cm/1 inch) to cut out centers from half of the rounds to create rings.
- Step 6:
- Arrange cookies on prepared baking sheets, keeping rings and solid rounds separate. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Step 7:
- Spread about 1 tsp raspberry jam on each solid cookie base. Top with a ring shaped cookie. Gently press together.
- Step 8:
- Dust assembled cookies with powdered sugar. Garnish with crushed freeze dried raspberries and decorate the platter with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers to form a wreath shape.
Save to Pinterest This cookie wreath brings our family together every holiday season, creating joyful memories as we share baking and tasting.
Notes
The cookies can be made ahead and filled just before serving to keep them crisp. Pair with sparkling wine or a fruity tea.
Required Tools
Electric mixer or stand mixer, mixing bowls, rolling pin, parchment paper, cookie cutters (large and small rounds), baking sheets, wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), egg, and dairy (butter). Almond extract may trigger nut allergies omit if necessary. Always check jam and other packaged ingredient labels for allergen warnings.
Save to Pinterest This wreath cookie platter is a festive and delicious addition to any celebration.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What makes the cookie dough tender?
The cookie dough incorporates softened unsalted butter and sugar creamed together, creating a light, fluffy base that yields tender cookies.
- → Can I substitute the raspberry jam?
Yes, strawberry or apricot preserves work well as alternatives, providing a different but equally delightful flavor profile.
- → How do I achieve the wreath shape with the cookies?
Cookies are cut into rounds and rings then arranged closely on a platter to form a wreath, offering an elegant presentation.
- → Is there an option to add extra flavor to the dough?
Adding lemon zest to the dough enhances brightness and complements the sweetness of the jam.
- → What garnishes can enhance the platter?
Crushed freeze-dried raspberries, fresh mint leaves, or edible flowers add color and freshness, elevating the visual appeal.
- → How should the cookies be stored to maintain texture?
Cookies can be baked in advance and filled just before serving to keep their crisp texture intact.