Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Delicate, buttery shortbread cookies get a beautiful and flavorful twist with a swirl of fresh raspberry jam. These raspberry swirl shortbread cookies combine the rich, crumbly texture of classic shortbread with the bright, tangy sweetness of raspberries. They are perfect for gifting during the holidays, serving at tea time, or simply enjoying as a treat any time of year.
What makes these cookies special is how effortlessly the raspberry jam blends into the dough, creating a stunning marbled effect and adding a burst of fruity flavor with every bite. The recipe is simple, requiring just a few basic ingredients, yet the results are elegant and delicious. Whether you are an experienced baker or just starting out, these cookies will impress your friends and family with their taste and beauty.
Why You Need This Recipe
This raspberry swirl shortbread cookies recipe offers a perfect balance of buttery richness and fruity brightness, making it a standout addition to any cookie collection. The combination of classic shortbread texture with the natural sweetness of raspberry jam creates a flavor that is both comforting and refreshing.
In addition, the recipe is simple and uses common ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. These cookies also keep well, making them great for preparing ahead of time or gifting during special occasions. If you want a treat that looks impressive but is easy to make, this recipe is a must try.
Ingredients
This raspberry swirl shortbread cookies recipe uses simple ingredients to create a delicious and elegant treat. Here is a clear list of what you will need, along with calorie counts:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups (240g) | 910 |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (227g) | 1620 |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup (150g) | 600 |
| Raspberry jam | ½ cup (160g) | 250 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | 12 |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | 0 |
Total calories (approximate for whole batch): 3392
How to Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, stirring gently until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep the shortbread tender. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle about half an inch thick.
Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the dough. Using a knife or a skewer, gently swirl the jam into the dough to create a marbled effect. Cut the dough into squares or rectangles and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the cookies for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips
Use room temperature butter to make creaming easier and ensure a smooth dough. When swirling the raspberry jam, be gentle to create beautiful patterns without mixing the jam completely into the dough.
For the best texture, avoid overbaking shortbread should be lightly golden but still tender. If your jam is very thick, warm it slightly to make spreading and swirling easier. You can also chill the dough for 15 minutes before rolling to prevent it from becoming too soft and sticky.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Raspberry swirl shortbread cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them ideal for afternoon treats or gatherings. They also complement fresh fruit or a light dessert wine for a more elegant touch.
For toppings, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a festive finish. You can also drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the cookies for extra sweetness and visual appeal. Adding a few toasted almond slices or fresh raspberries on top before baking gives a delightful crunch and enhances the fruity flavor.
Conclusion
Raspberry swirl shortbread cookies offer a perfect blend of buttery richness and fruity sweetness that is sure to delight any palate. Their beautiful marbled design and tender texture make them as pleasing to the eye as they are to the taste buds.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is a great choice for both beginner and experienced bakers. Add these cookies to your baking repertoire to enjoy a classic treat with a refreshing twist any time of year.
