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How To Make Perfect Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies

Close-up of three stacked slices of perfect raspberry swirl shortbread cookies showing the buttery base and bright red jam filling.

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Follow this guide to create buttery shortbread cookies with a distinct, beautiful raspberry swirl.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup thick raspberry jam

Instructions

  1. Beat the softened butter and sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  2. Mix in the vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined into a crumbly dough. Do not overmix.
  4. Divide the dough in half. Flatten one half into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the surface of this dough half.
  5. Take the second half of the dough and crumble it evenly over the jam layer, or roll it out and place it on top of the jam layer.
  6. Gently press the layers together. Roll the dough into a log about 1.5 inches in diameter.
  7. Wrap the dough log tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
  8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  9. Remove the chilled dough and slice it into rounds about 1/4 inch thick.
  10. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheets, leaving 1 inch between them.
  11. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are just set and very lightly golden. The center should remain pale.
  12. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Use a very thick raspberry jam; thin jam will soak into the dough.
  • For a clearer swirl, you can roll the dough into a log, flatten it slightly, spread the jam down the center, and then roll it up like a jelly roll before chilling.
  • Chilling the dough sufficiently prevents spreading during baking, which keeps your swirl shape defined.

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