Luscious Buttery Shortbread Cookies with Raspberry

These Luscious Buttery Shortbread Cookies with Raspberry are a melt-in-your-mouth treat that combines the rich, buttery flavor of classic shortbread with the sweet and tangy taste of raspberry. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea, sharing them at a party, or gifting them to loved ones, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Their tender texture and perfect balance of flavors make them the ideal treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.

The addition of raspberry jam in the center adds a lovely fruity note, enhancing the shortbread’s natural richness. This simple yet elegant cookie recipe can be made in no time, and the results are perfect for those looking for a homemade treat that is both delightful and impressive. They’re not only a treat for the taste buds but also a treat for the eyes, with their beautiful jam-filled center that gives them a charming, artisanal feel.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple to Make

This recipe is easy to follow and uses just a few simple ingredients. Even beginners can make these cookies with success!

2. Buttery and Melt-in-Your-Mouth

The shortbread base has a perfectly buttery texture that melts in your mouth with every bite, creating an indulgent experience.

3. Tangy Raspberry Center

The raspberry jam adds the perfect touch of sweetness and tang, balancing the richness of the shortbread cookies.

4. Versatile

You can switch out the raspberry jam for any other fruit jam you prefer, like strawberry, blueberry, or apricot, making this recipe versatile.

5. Beautifully Presented

These cookies look stunning with their jewel-toned raspberry filling, making them ideal for gifting or serving at special occasions.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Cornstarch
• Vanilla extract
• Salt
• Raspberry jam (or your favorite jam)

Variations

• Fruit Jam Substitutes: You can use any fruit jam you like, such as strawberry, blueberry, or apricot. Try experimenting with different flavors to find your favorite.
• Chocolate Dip: Dip the finished cookies in melted chocolate for an added layer of flavor and elegance.
• Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Nutty Variation: Add chopped toasted nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios to the dough for a crunchy texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Add the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until combined, and the dough begins to form. Stir in the vanilla extract until the dough is smooth and well-blended.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a small indentation in the center of each cookie, leaving enough space around the edges for spreading.

Step 5: Add the Raspberry Jam

Spoon a small amount of raspberry jam into the center of each cookie indentation. Be careful not to overfill, as the jam can bubble over while baking.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them toward the end to prevent overbaking.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature for the best texture when creaming with the sugar.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: When mixing the dough, avoid overworking it to maintain a light, tender texture.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to handle, you can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to make it easier to shape.
• Jam Selection: Use high-quality raspberry jam for the best flavor. You can also use homemade jam if you have it on hand.
• Watch the Oven: These cookies can go from perfect to overbaked quickly. Keep an eye on them during the final few minutes to ensure they stay soft and buttery.

How to Serve

Serve these Luscious Buttery Shortbread Cookies with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or even a glass of milk. They are perfect for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet snack any time of the day. They also make a lovely gift when packaged in a decorative tin or box.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They will stay fresh and buttery for several days, so you can enjoy them for a longer period.

Freezing

These shortbread cookies freeze wonderfully. To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

If you’d like to enjoy these cookies warm, simply place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes to gently warm them without losing their texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter?

It’s best to use unsalted butter in this recipe so that you can control the amount of salt added. If you use salted butter, reduce or omit the salt in the dough.

2. Can I use a different type of jam?

Yes, you can use any fruit jam you prefer. Strawberry, apricot, or even blueberry jam will work wonderfully in this recipe.

3. Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

4. Can I make these cookies without cornstarch?

Yes, you can omit the cornstarch if needed. The cornstarch helps to create a tender texture, but the cookies will still turn out delicious without it.

5. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies are done when the edges turn a light golden brown. The centers should still look soft but firm up as they cool.

6. Can I use a cookie press to shape these cookies?

Yes, you can use a cookie press for a different look. Just ensure you create an indentation for the jam in the center.

7. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. However, the texture may be slightly different.

8. Can I add nuts to the dough?

Yes, chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts can be added to the dough for a bit of crunch and extra flavor.

9. Can I use homemade raspberry jam?

Yes, homemade raspberry jam works beautifully in these cookies. Just make sure the jam is thick enough so it doesn’t run out of the indentation.

10. Can I frost these cookies?

While these cookies are delicious on their own with the jam filling, you can drizzle them with a simple glaze or melted chocolate if you prefer a sweeter finish.

Conclusion

Luscious Buttery Shortbread Cookies with Raspberry are the perfect balance of rich, buttery texture and sweet, fruity jam. With their melt-in-your-mouth goodness and elegant look, they are a delightful treat for any occasion. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re serving them for a special event or simply enjoying them with your loved ones, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy.

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