Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies (Printable)

Buttery shortbread with a vibrant raspberry jam swirl. Experience crisp edges and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center. Ideal treat or gift.

# Components:

→ Shortbread Dough

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
04 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
05 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Filling & Topping

06 - 1/3 cup raspberry jam or preserves
07 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, for dusting (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter with powdered sugar using electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
03 - Mix in vanilla extract until well combined.
04 - Whisk flour and salt in separate bowl. Gradually add to creamed mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overworking the dough.
05 - Turn dough onto lightly floured surface. Shape into 1.5-inch diameter log. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm.
06 - Slice chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place on prepared baking sheets, spacing 1 inch apart.
07 - Using back of teaspoon, make small indentation in center of each cookie.
08 - Spoon approximately 1/2 teaspoon raspberry jam into each indentation, taking care not to overfill.
09 - Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are light golden brown.
10 - Let cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely. Dust with granulated sugar if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The contrast between crisp edges and jammy centers is absolutely addictive
  • They look impressive but come together with minimal effort and no fancy techniques
02 -
  • Overworking the dough makes tough cookies, so stop mixing as soon as the flour disappears
  • Warm dough spreads too much, so the chilling step is absolutely non negotiable
03 -
  • Room temperature ingredients are non negotiable for proper texture
  • The dough log can be squared off for uniform rectangle cookies if you prefer tidy edges
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