Ingredients
For the Shortbread Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Raspberry Swirl:
- 1/3 cup raspberry jam (seedless preferred)
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
1. Prepare the Raspberry Swirl
- In a small bowl, mix raspberry jam, cornstarch, and lemon juice until smooth. Set aside.
2. Make the Shortbread Dough
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gradually incorporate the flour and salt, stirring just until the dough forms.
3. Layer the Dough
- Divide the dough into two portions. Roll each into a 1/4-inch-thick rectangle between parchment paper.
- Spread a thin layer of the raspberry mixture evenly over one rectangle, leaving a 1/4-inch border.
- Place the second rectangle on top of the raspberry-coated dough.
4. Roll and Chill
- Starting at one short end, roll the dough into a tight log.
- Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours until firm.
5. Slice and Bake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice the chilled log into 1/4-inch rounds. Arrange them 2 inches apart on the baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Ensure the raspberry mixture is smooth and well combined with the cornstarch to prevent any lumps that might affect the swirl in your cookies.
Serving Suggestions:
These Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies are perfect as a gift, packaged in a pretty tin or box. They also make an elegant addition to any holiday cookie platter.
Tips:
- Chill Thoroughly: Ensure the cookie dough is sufficiently chilled to make slicing easier and to keep the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- Uniform Thickness: When rolling out the dough, aim for uniform thickness to ensure even baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1-2 hours
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 24 cookies
- Calories: Approx. 120 per cookie
- Sodium: 25 mg
- Protein: 1 g