Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies

Rich, buttery shortbread meets tart raspberry swirls in these melt-in-your-mouth cookies. They’re elegant enough for gifting but simple enough for everyday treats.

Pure Comfort

These cookies combine classic Scottish shortbread with a vibrant raspberry ribbon, creating the perfect balance of traditional comfort and modern flair.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 cup cold butter, cubed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup raspberry preserves
Additional powdered sugar for dusting

What You Need

Stand mixer or hand mixer
Rolling pin
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Cookie cutter (2-inch round)
Cooling rack

Time to Cook

Prep: 30 minutes
Chill: 1 hour
Bake: 12-15 minutes
Total: 1 hour 45 minutes

Steps to Make It

Combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a bowl
Beat in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs
Add vanilla extract, mix until dough forms
Roll dough between parchment paper to 1/4-inch thickness
Spread raspberry preserves in a thin layer
Roll dough into a log, wrap in plastic
Chill for 1 hour
Cut into 1/4-inch slices
Bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes
Cool and dust with powdered sugar

Make It Perfect

Keep butter cold until mixing
Don’t overwork the dough
Spread preserves thinly to prevent leaking
Chill dough thoroughly before slicing

Mix It Up

Try different preserves: strawberry, blackberry, or apricot
Add lemon zest to the dough
Dip half in dark chocolate after baking
Roll edges in crushed nuts

Perfect Partners

Afternoon tea
Coffee or hot chocolate
Vanilla ice cream
Fresh berries

Busy Day Hero

Make dough ahead and freeze for up to 3 months. Slice and bake as needed.

Work Ahead

Prepare dough logs up to 3 days before baking, stored in refrigerator.

Save Some For Later

Store in airtight container at room temperature for 1 week, or freeze baked cookies for 3 months.

Everyone’s Happy

Easily adaptable for different dietary needs:

Gluten-free flour blend works well
Use plant-based butter for dairy-free version
Reduce sugar for less sweet option

Good For You Too

Made with real butter and natural ingredients
No artificial preservatives
Reasonable portion size
Can use reduced-sugar preserves

Easy Clean Up

Use parchment paper for easy release
One-bowl mixing method
Minimal equipment needed

Switch It Up

Make sandwich cookies with buttercream
Cut into different shapes
Add almond extract instead of vanilla
Create marble effect with two preserves

Simply Perfect

These cookies strike the perfect balance between elegant and approachable, making them ideal for both special occasions and everyday treats.

FAQs

Can I use fresh raspberries?
No, preserves work best for consistency.
Why did my swirls break?
Dough may have been too warm. Chill thoroughly.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, ingredients scale well.
Why are my cookies spreading?
Butter might be too warm. Chill longer.
Can I make them ahead?
Yes, dough freezes well.
How do I get even slices?
Use dental floss or sharp knife.
Are they too sweet?
Reduce sugar or use tart preserves.

Conclusion

These Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies combine buttery richness with fruity brightness, creating an irresistible treat that’s both classic and creative. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or enjoying with your afternoon tea.

More Sweet Inspirations for Your Baking Adventures

If you loved making Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies, you might enjoy trying other delicious treats! For another fruity delight, check out these White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Balls, combining the perfect blend of creamy and tart flavors. If you’re a fan of nutty and spiced treats, these Italian Nut Roll Cookies will surely impress. For a fluffy and dreamy dessert, indulge in the Cloud Fluffy Brioche, a light and airy bread that pairs wonderfully with tea. If you enjoy vibrant and festive flavors, don’t miss out on this Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake, a holiday classic with a tangy twist. And for those who appreciate classic combinations, these Midnight Kiss Cookies bring together chocolatey richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Happy baking! 🍪✨