Chocolate and raspberry is one of those flavor pairings that feels both luxurious and nostalgic at the same time. Rich, deep chocolate balanced by bright, slightly tart raspberry has been a classic combination in European pastries, American bakeries, and home kitchens for generations. These Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting bring that timeless pairing into a soft, bakery-style cookie that feels elegant enough for holidays yet cozy enough for everyday baking.

Unlike crisp sandwich cookies, these cookies are tender and cake-like, creating the perfect contrast to the smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting. The raspberry element adds natural sweetness and color without overpowering the chocolate, making each bite balanced, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying.

This recipe was designed for bakers who want something visually stunning, deeply flavorful, and reliably delicious. Whether you are baking for Valentine’s Day, a cookie exchange, a baby shower, or simply to treat yourself, these cookies deliver both beauty and flavor in every bite.

Why Chocolate and Raspberry Work So Well Together

Chocolate has a naturally bitter depth, especially when cocoa powder is used generously. Raspberry, on the other hand, offers acidity and brightness. When paired together, raspberry cuts through the richness of chocolate, preventing it from feeling heavy while enhancing its flavor.

Cream cheese frosting acts as the bridge between the two. Its mild tang complements both the chocolate cookies and the raspberry flavor, creating a smooth, balanced filling that ties everything together beautifully.

Ingredients

Chocolate Cookies:

2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk

Raspberry Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1½ cups powdered sugar
¼ cup raspberry jam or preserves
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix just until a soft, smooth dough forms.
Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten the tops slightly.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cookies are set but still soft in the center.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by raspberry jam and vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy and evenly colored.
Spread or pipe frosting onto the flat side of half the cookies.
Top with remaining cookies to form sandwiches. Press gently to secure.

Tips for Perfect Sandwich Cookies

Do not overbake: These cookies should remain soft. Overbaking will make them dry.
Use room-temperature ingredients: This ensures a smooth batter and creamy frosting.
Chill if needed: If your dough feels too soft, refrigerate for 20 minutes before baking.
Pipe for a bakery look: Use a piping bag for neat, professional-looking filling.

Flavor Variations

Dark Chocolate Raspberry: Use dark cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.
White Chocolate Raspberry: Add white chocolate chips to the cookie dough.
Fresh Raspberry Frosting: Replace jam with reduced fresh raspberries for a natural filling.
Chocolate Ganache Filling: Swap frosting for a raspberry-infused chocolate ganache.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies with coffee, espresso, or hot chocolate. They also pair beautifully with sparkling wine, making them perfect for celebrations and romantic occasions. Arrange them on dessert platters, gift boxes, or holiday cookie trays for a stunning presentation.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Store assembled cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture. Unfilled cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Fun Baking Fact

Raspberry has been paired with chocolate since the early 1900s, when fruit-filled chocolates became popular in European confectionery shops. This pairing remains one of the most beloved dessert combinations worldwide.