Raspberry and Almond Shortbread Thumbprints

Ingredients and Weight:

• 150 grams (5 oz) unsalted butter, softened
• 85 grams (3 oz) icing sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 225 grams (8 oz) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 50 grams (1.7 oz) raspberry preserves or jam
• 30 grams (1 oz) chopped almonds

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and icing sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg yolk and almond extract and mix well.
3. Sift in the flour and salt, and mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in the chopped almonds.
5. Take small portions of the dough and roll into balls, then flatten slightly to form thumbprint shapes.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with baking paper.
7. Use a fork to make a pattern on top of each shortbread.
8. Spread a small amount of raspberry preserves or jam onto each shortbread.
9. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until lightly golden.
10. Allow to cool before serving.

Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 shortbread thumbprints)

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 4g

Dish Characteristics:

• The combination of raspberry and almond gives this shortbread a unique and delightful flavor.
• The thumbprint shape and fork-marked pattern add visual interest and a homey feel.
• The shortbread is crispy and has a slightly sweet and salty balance.

User Comments:

1. "The combination of flavors was amazing! The raspberry and almond were so well-matched."
2. "The shortbread was crispy and not too sweet, perfect for an afternoon tea."
3. "The thumbprint shape was unique and added a personal touch."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to use softened butter for best results. If the butter is too hard, it will affect the texture of the shortbread.
• When using raspberry preserves or jam, make sure it is not too runny or it will spread beyond the shortbread during baking.
• For best results, use fresh ingredients from the supermarket.