Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies Recipe – Buttery Cookies with a Fruity Twist

 

Introduction

If you love classic shortbread cookies and enjoy fruity flavors, this Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies Recipe is perfect for you. These cookies are soft, buttery, and lightly sweet, with beautiful swirls of raspberry that add both color and flavor.

Shortbread cookies are very popular in the US, UK, and Canada because they are simple, comforting, and not overly sweet. Adding raspberry swirl gives this traditional cookie a fresh and modern touch. These cookies are great for holidays, tea time, gifting, or just enjoying with a cup of coffee.

The best thing about this recipe is that it uses simple ingredients and easy steps, making it suitable for beginners as well as experienced home bakers.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

These cookies melt in your mouth and have a perfect balance of buttery richness and fruity sweetness. The raspberry swirl not only tastes amazing but also makes the cookies look beautiful without any extra effort. They are perfect for special occasions and everyday treats.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Shortbread Dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• A pinch of salt

For the Raspberry Swirl

• ¼ cup raspberry jam or preserves

Optional

• Extra powdered sugar for dusting

How to Make Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well. Slowly add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.

Step 2: Add the Raspberry Swirl

Divide the dough into two parts. Gently mix raspberry jam into one portion, swirling lightly so the color stays marbled and not fully mixed.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Combine small pieces of plain dough and raspberry dough together. Roll into a log shape using parchment paper. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 30–40 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape.

Step 4: Slice and Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Slice the chilled dough into even rounds and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 5: Cool Completely

Let the cookies cool on the tray for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. The cookies will firm up as they cool.

Recipe Benefits

One of the biggest benefits of this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need special tools or complicated techniques. The dough comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy days.

Raspberry adds a natural fruity flavor that balances the buttery shortbread. This makes the cookies feel lighter compared to traditional shortbread.

These cookies are also great for portion control. They are small, satisfying, and perfect for enjoying one or two at a time.

Another benefit is versatility. You can easily replace raspberry jam with strawberry, blueberry, or apricot jam to create different flavors using the same recipe.

Because they store well, these cookies are perfect for meal prep, festive gifting, or keeping a sweet treat ready at home.

Serving Ideas

Serve Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. They are perfect for afternoon snacks, holiday dessert tables, or cookie boxes.

You can also dust them lightly with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant look.

Storage Tips

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator or freeze them for up to one month.

Tips for Best Results

• Use room-temperature butter

• Don’t overmix the dough

• Chill the dough before slicing

• Use good-quality raspberry jam

• Let cookies cool fully before storing

Final Thoughts

Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies are a beautiful and delicious twist on a classic recipe. They are buttery, lightly sweet, and full of fruity flavor. Whether you’re baking for guests or treating yourself, these cookies are simple to make and always impressive.

Once you try them, they will quickly become a favorite in your cookie collection.