Easy Raspberry Shortbread Swirl Cookies Recipe

If you love cookies that look as good as they taste, these Raspberry Shortbread Swirl Cookies are about to become your new favorite treat. They combine the rich, buttery flavor of classic shortbread with a sweet burst of raspberry jam and a beautiful pink swirl that makes them perfect for holidays, tea parties, or everyday indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Buttery, soft, and slightly crisp around the edges
• Gorgeous pink swirls that make every cookie unique
• Perfect balance of sweetness and fruity flavor
• Easy to make ahead, freeze and bake later
• Ideal for gifting or holiday cookie trays

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• ¼ cup raspberry jam (seedless preferred)
• Red or pink food coloring (optional, for swirl effect)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Add Flavoring: Mix in vanilla extract and almond extract (if using).
4. Form the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.
5. Divide the Dough: Split the dough into two equal portions.
6. Add Jam to Half: In one portion, mix in raspberry jam and a drop of food coloring until evenly tinted.
7. Roll Each Dough: Roll both doughs separately between two pieces of parchment paper into rectangles of equal size.
8. Create the Swirl: Stack the raspberry dough on top of the plain dough. Gently press together and roll into a log to create the swirl pattern.
9. Chill: Wrap the dough log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
10. Slice and Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Slice the chilled dough into ¼-inch thick rounds and arrange on the baking sheets about 1 inch apart.
11. Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are just lightly golden.
12. Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• Flavor Options: Try using strawberry, apricot, or blackberry jam for different fruity flavors.
• Add Texture: Sprinkle with coarse sugar before baking for a sparkly finish.
• Extra Sweet Touch: Drizzle cooled cookies with melted white or dark chocolate.
• Color Play: Experiment with natural food dyes or beet powder for a pink hue without artificial coloring.
• Holiday Idea: Add festive sprinkles to the edges before baking for a cheerful touch.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 10 days when stored in a sealed container.
• Freezer: To freeze, place baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Make Ahead: You can freeze the unbaked dough log for up to 2 months. Slice and bake straight from the freezer with 1–2 extra minutes of baking time.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with hot tea, cocoa, or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist.
• Add to a holiday cookie tray alongside Snowball Cookies and Chocolate Chip Cookies.
• Wrap in cellophane bags with ribbons for gifts or party favors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use jam with seeds?

Yes, but seedless jam gives a smoother texture and a more polished look. If using jam with seeds, you can warm and strain it first.

Why did my swirl pattern disappear when baking?

If the dough becomes too soft before baking, the swirl can blur. Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly before slicing and baking.

Can I make this dough in advance?

Absolutely! This dough freezes beautifully. Prepare it ahead of time, wrap tightly, and freeze until you’re ready to bake.

How can I make them gluten-free?

Use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Check your jam to ensure it’s gluten-free as well.

Ready to Make It?

There’s something special about homemade cookies that combine beauty and flavor, and these Raspberry Shortbread Swirl Cookies deliver both. Each bite offers buttery sweetness and a burst of raspberry that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special event, or just because, this recipe adds a touch of elegance and charm to any table. Save it now and make your next cookie batch unforgettable.

You Might Also Like

• Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies – Soft, chewy, and perfect for festive occasions.
• Snowball Cookies – Buttery and coated in powdered sugar for a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
• Chocolate Chip Cookies – Golden, chewy, and a timeless classic.
• Cranberry Orange Scones – Bright, citrusy, and perfect for breakfast or tea.

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