Swedish Hallongrottor Cookies (Raspberry Caves)

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup raspberry preserves
• 1/4 cup sugar crystals

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter, sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flour and salt, then stir into the butter mixture until a dough forms.
4. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, and place 2 inches apart on a lightly greased baking sheet.
5. Using your thumb, make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
6. Fill each indentation with 1/2 teaspoon raspberry preserves.
7. Sprinkle with sugar crystals.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
9. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.

Interesting Facts

• The name "Hallongrottor" is Swedish for "Raspberry Caves"
• These cookies are a traditional Swedish recipe, often served during Christmas time
• The indentations in the center of the cookie help the raspberry preserves stay in place while baking