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Himbeer-Wirbel Shortbread Kekse: Easy Raspberry Swirl Cookies

raspberry swirl cookies - featured image

These raspberry swirl shortbread cookies feature buttery, crumbly dough with playful ribbons of tangy raspberry preserves. Quick to make and eye-catching, they’re perfect for any occasion and easily customizable for dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar
  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup (110g) raspberry preserves or seedless raspberry jam
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Optional: Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Optional: Crushed freeze-dried raspberries, for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Mix in vanilla extract and salt, scraping down the sides to incorporate.
  4. Gradually add flour, mixing on low speed or by hand until the dough just comes together. If too dry, add 1 teaspoon milk or water at a time.
  5. Drop spoonfuls of raspberry preserves and optional lemon zest over the dough. Gently fold with a rubber spatula 2-3 times to create visible swirls.
  6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions (about 20g each), roll into balls, and place on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly if desired.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are just turning golden. Rotate the pan halfway through for even browning.
  8. Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool.
  9. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle with crushed freeze-dried raspberries. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

For gluten-free cookies, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, substitute plant-based butter. Do not overmix the dough after adding flour or preserves to maintain a tender texture and visible swirls. If dough feels greasy, chill for 10 minutes before baking. Cookies freeze well for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: shortbread, raspberry swirl, cookies, easy, holiday, buttery, jam, kid-friendly, gluten-free option, dairy-free option