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Raspberry Swirl Shortbread

Raspberry Swirl Shortbread

Emily Parker
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 54 minutes
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 160 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • Pinch of salt
  • cup seedless raspberry jam
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • Tip: Use a high-quality jam for the best flavor and smooth swirl.

Instructions
 

Make the Raspberry Swirl

  • In a small saucepan over low heat, combine raspberry jam, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened. Let cool completely.

Cream Butter and Sugar

  • In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.

Mix the Dough

  • Gradually add flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. The dough will be soft but should hold together.

Shape the Cookies

  • Divide dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each). Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten slightly and use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indent in the center.

Fill and Swirl

  • Spoon a small amount of the cooled raspberry mixture into each indent. Use a toothpick to gently swirl the jam into the dough.

Chill

  • Chill the tray of cookies for 15–20 minutes in the fridge while you preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake

  • Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack

Notes

  • Don’t Skip Chilling: This helps cookies keep their shape.
  • Jam Alternatives: Try apricot, strawberry, or blueberry jam.
  • Even Swirls: Use a skewer or toothpick to gently marble the jam into the dough.
  • Double the Batch: These cookies disappear fast—make extra!