If you’re looking for a treat that perfectly balances melt-in-your-mouth richness with a burst of fruity sweetness, the Luscious Buttery Shortbread Cookies with Raspberry Recipe is exactly what you need. These delightful cookies boast a tender, buttery crumb that crumbles just right, paired with vibrant raspberry jam nestled in the center. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting homemade dessert, these shortbread cookies offer a charming blend of classic and fresh flavors that never fail to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, you’ll rely on a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture and flavor. From the rich butter that forms the base to the raspberry jam adding a pop of natural sweetness, every component is indispensable in crafting these irresistible cookies.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup or 2 sticks): Softened for easy creaming, this is the base that makes the cookies melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Balances the butter’s richness with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Pure vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle aromatic depth to the dough.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides the structure and a delicate crumb texture.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Seedless raspberry jam (1/3 cup): The star of the show, offering a fresh, fruity surprise in every bite.
- Powdered sugar (optional): For a light, elegant dusting that adds a touch of sparkle and extra sweetness.
How to Make Luscious Buttery Shortbread Cookies with Raspberry Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and release easily. Getting your prep done early makes the rest of the process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This creaming process is key to a tender cookie, as it traps air and ensures a delicate crumb. A hand mixer or stand mixer makes this step super easy.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Mix in the pure vanilla extract until it’s evenly incorporated. This small addition punches up the flavor and gives your cookies a warm vanilla undertone that pairs perfectly with raspberry jam.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Form Dough
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, stirring just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing here; you want a tender dough without developing too much gluten, which can make cookies tough.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into smooth balls. Space them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to give them room to bake evenly. Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, gently press into the center of each ball, creating a small well for the jam filling.
Step 6: Add Raspberry Jam and Bake
Fill each indentation with about half a teaspoon of seedless raspberry jam. Bake in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn a light golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, which can dry out these tender cookies.
Step 7: Cool and Optional Finishing Touch
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, you can dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar to add a charming, delicate sweetness and a festive look.
How to Serve Luscious Buttery Shortbread Cookies with Raspberry Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple yet lovely presentation, dust your luscious buttery shortbread cookies with powdered sugar just before serving. If you want to get fancy, try adding a few fresh raspberries or a sprig of mint for a bright, fresh contrast. A drizzle of melted white chocolate over the tops is another beautiful option to make these cookies feel extra special.
Side Dishes
These cookies are perfect alongside a hot cup of tea, a rich cup of coffee, or even a glass of chilled milk. For gatherings, consider pairing them with a cheese plate featuring mild cheeses and fresh fruit to balance the sweetness. They also make a wonderful dessert when served alongside vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking of gifting these beauties? Arrange them in a pretty box lined with parchment, tied with a ribbon, and maybe tuck in a small jar of raspberry jam. For a party, stack them on a tiered serving tray alongside other small treats to create a tempting dessert table. Get creative by sandwiching two cookies together with more raspberry jam for an adorable shortbread sandwich variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, place your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to five days. Keeping them sealed prevents them from drying out, so they maintain that lovely buttery texture each time you reach for one.
Freezing
If you want to bake ahead or save extras, these cookies freeze beautifully. Store them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They keep well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating
To revive the freshly baked feel, warm your cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This gentle warmth brings out the buttery aroma and softens the raspberry jam just enough without melting it away.
FAQs
Can I use other types of jam instead of raspberry?
Absolutely! While raspberry jam adds a wonderful tart sweetness, strawberry, apricot, or blackberry jams are fantastic alternatives that work just as well in this recipe.
Is it possible to add almond extract to the dough?
Yes, for an extra layer of flavor, try adding half a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. It complements the buttery base and raspberry jam beautifully without overpowering the cookies.
How should I ensure the cookie dough does not spread too much during baking?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and avoid overmixing the dough. Chilling the dough briefly before baking can also help maintain the shape of the cookies.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly, but they should still turn out delicious and buttery.
Are these cookies suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This recipe uses no animal-derived ingredients beyond butter, so it fits perfectly into a vegetarian diet. Just be sure your jam ingredients align with your preferences.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about homemade treats like these Luscious Buttery Shortbread Cookies with Raspberry Recipe. They’re simple to make, lovely to share, and undeniably delicious. Whether you’re baking up a batch for yourself or as gifts for loved ones, these cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles and sweet moments. I can’t wait for you to try them and make them a favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Luscious Buttery Shortbread Cookies with Raspberry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These luscious buttery shortbread cookies with raspberry jam combine the rich, tender crumb of classic shortbread with a sweet and tangy raspberry center. Perfect for holiday celebrations or everyday indulgence, these cookies are easy to make, baked to golden perfection, and can be customized with your favorite fruit preserves.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1/3 cup seedless raspberry jam
Optional
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is important for the texture of the cookies.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in the pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated, adding flavor depth to the dough.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture. Stir gently and mix just until a soft dough forms; avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Form Dough Balls: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each into a smooth ball. Place them spaced about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow for spreading.
- Create Indentations: Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to make an indentation in the center of each dough ball to hold the raspberry jam.
- Fill with Jam: Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of seedless raspberry jam into each indentation, filling gently without overfilling.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden, indicating the cookies are done.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they firm up nicely.
- Optional Dusting: Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar if desired for added sweetness and decoration before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute raspberry jam with other fruit preserves such as strawberry, apricot, or blackberry for a different flavor.
- For extra flavor, try adding 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the dough.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
