Buttery shortbread cookies rolled with sweet raspberry jam and finished with a delicate white chocolate drizzle—perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant Presentation: The swirl of raspberry jam makes these cookies visually stunning.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible to all skill levels.
- Delicious Flavor Combo: The buttery shortbread pairs perfectly with tart raspberry jam and sweet white chocolate.
- Versatile Treat: Great for holidays, tea parties, or as a delightful homemade gift.
- Customizable: Easily swap the jam or drizzle to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup raspberry jam
¼ cup white chocolate, melted
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness.
- Evenly spread the raspberry jam over the rolled-out dough.
- Carefully roll the dough into a log, ensuring the jam stays inside. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Once chilled, slice the dough log into ¼ inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, drizzle the cookies with the melted white chocolate for a decorative finish.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Jam Options: Substitute raspberry jam with strawberry, apricot, or blackberry jam for a different flavor.
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Replace white chocolate with melted dark or semi-sweet chocolate for a richer taste.
- Nutty Twist: Add finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the dough for added texture.
- Lemon Glaze: Skip the chocolate and drizzle a simple lemon glaze for a tangy twist.
- Festive Colors: Use tinted white chocolate to match holiday themes, such as red and green for Christmas.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: For extended freshness, refrigerate the cookies for up to 10 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the cookies in a single layer, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: These cookies don’t need reheating but can be warmed slightly if desired.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but omit the added salt in the recipe to balance flavors.
How do I keep the jam from oozing out while rolling?
Spread a thin layer of jam, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent spilling.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. The dough log can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
What’s the best way to melt white chocolate?
Melt white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 15-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
Can I use store-bought shortbread dough?
Yes, you can use pre-made shortbread dough to save time, though homemade offers the best flavor.
How do I ensure even slices?
Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts to maintain the swirl design.
Can I omit the chocolate drizzle?
Of course! The cookies are delicious even without the drizzle.
What if I don’t have parchment paper?
Grease the baking sheet lightly or use a silicone baking mat as an alternative.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough thoroughly before slicing and baking to retain their shape.
Can I add food coloring to the dough?
Yes, you can tint the dough with food coloring for a festive or themed look.
Conclusion
Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies are a delightful mix of flavor and elegance. The buttery shortbread, sweet raspberry jam, and delicate white chocolate drizzle come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or indulging in a simple homemade treat, these cookies are sure to impress. Enjoy baking and savor the compliments!