Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Irresistibly Buttery Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Delicate raspberry swirl shortbread cookies dance between buttery richness and fruity elegance.

Soft crumbles melt across your palate with unexpected grace.

Sweet raspberry ribbons weave through tender dough, creating delightful visual and taste surprises.

Crisp edges complement silky center textures that whisper pure comfort.

Baking these delicate treats feels like crafting edible art with minimal effort.

Each bite promises a miniature celebration of simplicity and flavor.

You’ll want to savor every crumbly, jam-kissed moment of these irresistible cookies.

What Goes In Raspberry Swirl Shortbread

Shortbread Base:
  • All-Purpose Flour: The essential foundation that provides structure and delicate texture to the cookies.
  • Unsalted Butter: Softened butter creates a rich, smooth base and adds luxurious flavor to the shortbread.
  • Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps achieve a delicate, crumbly cookie texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, classic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the shortbread.
Raspberry Filling:
  • Raspberry Jam: Brings a vibrant fruity swirl and sweet-tart flavor to the shortbread cookies.
Finishing Touch:
  • White Chocolate: Creates an elegant drizzle that adds a creamy, decorative element to the completed cookies.

Raspberry Shortbread Baking Guide

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Grab your baking sheet and line it with parchment paper.

Fire up the oven to a cozy 350F (175C) so it’s ready for cookie magic.

Step 2: Create Buttery Base

In a mixing bowl, whip together:
  • Softened butter
  • Sugar

Beat until the mixture becomes cloud-like and fluffy.

Splash in vanilla extract and gently fold in flour until a soft dough emerges.

Step 3: Roll Out Delicate Dough

Dust your countertop with a light flour sprinkle.

Carefully roll the dough into a beautiful thin sheet, about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 4: Spread Luscious Raspberry Goodness

Generously coat the dough surface with vibrant raspberry jam, creating a delightful ruby-red layer.

Step 5: Transform Into Elegant Roll

Carefully and slowly roll the dough into a smooth, tight log.

Tuck it into the refrigerator for a cool 30-minute rest to help it firm up perfectly.

Step 6: Slice Cookie Rounds

Remove the chilled log and slice into delicate 1/4 inch rounds.

Gently transfer each cookie onto the prepared baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the oven.

Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges turn a beautiful golden brown.

Step 8: Final Flourish

Once completely cooled, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cookies for an elegant, restaurant-worthy finish.

Tips For Buttery Shortbread Success

  • Refrigerate the log for at least 30 minutes to help cookies maintain shape and prevent spreading during baking.
  • Use seedless raspberry jam for a smoother swirl and cleaner cookie appearance.
  • Use a sharp knife and gentle sawing motion to create uniform cookie rounds without crushing the delicate dough.
  • Leave a small border around the edges when spreading jam to minimize potential spillage during rolling.
  • Drizzle white chocolate diagonally across cookies for a professional bakery-style finish that adds visual appeal and subtle sweetness.

Flavor Twists For Swirl Cookies

  • Gluten-Free Raspberry Shortbread: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the same delicate texture and sweet raspberry flavor.
  • Vegan Berry Swirl Cookies: Swap butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine, use plant-based white chocolate for drizzling, and select a vegan-friendly raspberry jam to create a completely dairy-free treat.
  • Lemon-Raspberry Variation: Incorporate lemon zest into the dough and use a mix of raspberry and lemon curd for a tangy, bright flavor profile that adds complexity to the classic shortbread.

How To Present Raspberry Shortbread

  • Sweet Afternoon Tea Companion: Pair these delicate raspberry shortbread cookies with a light Earl Grey tea for a sophisticated flavor combination.
  • Elegant Dessert Presentation: Arrange cookies on a vintage porcelain plate with fresh raspberries and a light dusting of powdered sugar for a stunning visual display.
  • Gifting Delight: Package these cookies in a clear cellophane bag tied with a silk ribbon as a charming homemade gift for friends or special occasions.
  • Holiday Entertaining: Serve these cookies as part of a festive dessert platter during Christmas or Valentine's Day celebrations, adding a touch of romantic raspberry sweetness.

Storage Tips For Swirl Shortbread Cookies

  • Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap cookies tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
  • Warm individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds. Check to avoid overheating, which can make them tough.
  • Revive cookies' crisp texture by placing them on a baking sheet and warming at 275F for 3-5 minutes. Let cool completely before enjoying.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of jam?

Yes, you can substitute raspberry jam with strawberry, apricot, or any other fruit jam you prefer. Just ensure it’s a smooth, seedless jam for the best swirl effect.

  • Do I need any special tools to make these cookies?

No special tools are required. A basic rolling pin, baking sheet, and parchment paper are all you’ll need to create these delightful shortbread cookies.

  • How do I prevent the jam from leaking while rolling?

Chill the dough before rolling and spread the jam thinly and evenly. Also, make sure the dough is cold when you roll it to help maintain the swirl structure.

Why You’ll Adore Raspberry Swirl Shortbread

  • Swirl and Savor: These cookies deliver a delightful raspberry jam twist that makes every bite burst with fruity sweetness.
  • Quick Kitchen Magic: Minimal ingredients and simple steps transform basic pantry items into elegant, professional-looking treats perfect for any skill level.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Versatile cookies work beautifully for casual gatherings, afternoon tea, potlucks, or sophisticated dessert tables with their eye-catching white chocolate drizzle.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Dough can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, allowing for stress-free baking and convenient preparation for unexpected guests or last-minute cravings.
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Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies Recipe


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4.7 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Raspberry swirl shortbread cookies dance with delicate layers of buttery sweetness and tangy fruit. Delicate Scottish-inspired pastry meets bold berry passion, creating a perfect balance of crumbly texture and fruity zest that will enchant dessert enthusiasts.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Fruity Component:

  • 1/2 cup raspberry jam

Finishing Touches:

  • 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup white chocolate (melted)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the workspace by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for smooth cookie removal.
  2. Create a luxurious base by whipping softened butter and sugar until they transform into a creamy, airy mixture. Incorporate vanilla extract for depth of flavor.
  3. Gradually fold flour into the butter mixture, gently blending until a cohesive dough emerges that holds together without crumbling.
  4. Dust a clean surface with a light flour coating and carefully roll the dough into a thin, uniform sheet approximately 1/4 inch thick.
  5. Artfully spread raspberry jam across the rolled dough, ensuring an even distribution that promises a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.
  6. Delicately roll the jam-covered dough into a compact log, sealing the raspberry swirl within the buttery exterior.
  7. Chill the dough log in the refrigerator for 30 minutes, allowing it to firm up and make slicing more precise.
  8. Using a sharp knife, slice the chilled log into neat rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick, arranging them carefully on the prepared baking sheet.
  9. Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, watching for subtle golden edges that indicate perfect doneness.
  10. Transfer cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely, preserving their delicate texture.
  11. Elevate the presentation by drizzling melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies, creating an elegant and indulgent finishing touch.

Notes

  • Refrigerate dough thoroughly to prevent spreading and maintain the swirl pattern during baking.
  • Use high-quality raspberry jam with intense fruit flavor for a more pronounced fruity taste.
  • Try different jam varieties like strawberry or apricot for unique flavor variations.
  • Swap white flour with gluten-free alternatives for celiac-friendly version without compromising texture.
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 134
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 22 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 0.2 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 18 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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