Irresistible Raspberry Shortbread Cookie Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Baking the Perfect Treat

#### Raspberry Shortbread Cookie RecipeIf you're looking for a delightful dessert that combines the buttery richness of shortbread with the tart sweetness o……

#### Raspberry Shortbread Cookie Recipe

If you're looking for a delightful dessert that combines the buttery richness of shortbread with the tart sweetness of raspberries, then this **raspberry shortbread cookie recipe** is just what you need. These cookies are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat, this recipe will guide you through every step of the baking process.

#### Ingredients

To create these delectable raspberry shortbread cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

- ½ cup powdered sugar

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- ¼ teaspoon salt

- ½ cup raspberry jam (homemade or store-bought)

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- Fresh raspberries for garnish (optional)

#### Instructions

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. **Cream the Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps to incorporate air into the dough, resulting in a tender cookie.

3. **Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients**: Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and salt to the mixture, blending until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

4. **Chill the Dough**: Once your dough is mixed, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to handle.

5. **Roll and Cut the Cookies**: After chilling, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out your desired shapes. If you want to create a filled cookie, cut out half of your cookies with a hole in the center to allow the raspberry jam to peek through.

6. **Add the Raspberry Jam**: Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheet. For those without holes, add a small dollop of raspberry jam in the center of each cookie. If using the cookies with holes, place a jam-filled cookie on top of each base cookie.

7. **Bake**: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

8. **Cool and Garnish**: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. If desired, garnish with fresh raspberries for an extra touch of elegance.

#### Enjoying Your Cookies

These raspberry shortbread cookies are perfect for any occasion. They make a great addition to tea parties, holiday gatherings, or simply as a sweet snack to enjoy with your afternoon coffee. The combination of buttery shortbread and tangy raspberry jam creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and refreshing.

#### Storage Tips

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but we doubt they’ll last that long once you taste them! You can also freeze the cookies for longer storage. Just ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container.

In conclusion, this **raspberry shortbread cookie recipe** is a must-try for anyone who loves baking. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be able to whip up a batch of these delicious cookies in no time. Happy baking!