Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies

Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies

Elegant Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies combine buttery shortbread with a fruity swirl for the perfect holiday treat. Great for gifting, sharing, or indulging!"

Why These Cookies Are Irresistible

• Holiday Favorite: Vibrant raspberry swirls make these cookies festive and visually stunning for any holiday table.
• Buttery Perfection: The shortbread base melts in your mouth, pairing perfectly with the tangy-sweet raspberry filling.
• Easy to Customize: Swap the raspberry jam for your favorite fruit preserves to create unique flavors.
• Versatile Gift Idea: These cookies make thoughtful and delicious edible gifts.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Dough:

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

For the Raspberry Swirl:

• 1/3 cup raspberry jam (preferably seedless)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

How to Make Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Raspberry Swirl

1. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the raspberry jam, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
2. Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely before use.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Dough

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
4. Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a flat rectangle. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough

1. Roll out one portion of dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
2. Spread half of the cooled raspberry swirl evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Starting from the longer side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Repeat with the second portion of dough and the remaining swirl.
4. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Step 4: Slice and Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Slice the chilled logs into 1/4-inch-thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 1 inch apart.
3. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden.
4. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a festive touch, or serve as is.
2. Arrange on a platter or package in decorative tins for gifting.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies

• Chill for Precision: Chilling the dough logs ensures clean cuts and prevents spreading during baking.
• Use Quality Jam: High-quality, seedless raspberry jam enhances both the flavor and the visual appeal.
• Keep It Neat: To avoid messy swirls, let the raspberry mixture cool completely before spreading.
• Even Baking: Rotate the baking sheets halfway through for consistent browning.

Healthy Twists

• Whole-Wheat Flour: Replace 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour with whole-wheat flour for added fiber.
• Low-Sugar Option: Use a reduced-sugar raspberry jam or a sugar substitute to lower the calorie count.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute vegan butter for a plant-based alternative.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

• Calories: 120
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 6g

FAQs

1. Can I freeze the dough logs?
Yes, you can freeze the dough logs for up to 2 months. Thaw slightly in the fridge before slicing and baking.

2. How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for 10 days.

3. Can I use other jams?
Absolutely! Try strawberry, apricot, or blueberry jam for variety.

These Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies are the ultimate holiday indulgence, offering a buttery texture and a burst of fruity flavor. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether served at a festive gathering or given as a thoughtful homemade gift. Bake a batch today and elevate your dessert game with these elegant and delicious cookies! 🎄✨