Shortbread Cookies with Raspberry Preserves

Looking for a simple yet delicious cookie recipe? These shortbread cookies with raspberry preserves are a perfect choice for any occasion. Made with basic ingredients like butter, sugar, and flour, these cookies are buttery and melt in your mouth. The addition of raspberry preserves adds a fruity touch, making them an ideal treat for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or as a gift. Easy to make, customizable with different jams, and great for freezing, this shortbread cookie recipe is a must-try for baking enthusiasts.

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¾ pound unsalted butter (3 sticks), at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup raspberry preserves
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of an electric mixer with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter and sugar on medium speed until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix to combine.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough begins to come together. The sides of the bowl should be clean when done.
3. Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F.
5. Roll and Cut the Dough: Remove the dough from the fridge and roll out one-quarter of it at a time on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to stamp out shapes, and a straw to make a hole in the center of half of the cookies. Use a spatula or food scraper to transfer them to a baking sheet.
6. Bake: Place the cookies on an ungreased baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
7. Assemble the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled to room temperature, spread a thin layer of raspberry preserves on the flat side of half the cookies. Top with the remaining cookies and dust with powdered sugar. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic and Simple: These buttery shortbread cookies with raspberry preserves are a timeless treat.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal steps, these cookies come together quickly.
• Perfect for Gifting: They make a lovely homemade gift, especially when dusted with powdered sugar.
• Customizable: The raspberry preserves can be swapped for any other fruit preserves or jam you prefer.

Tips

• Butter Consistency: Ensure the butter is at room temperature before mixing for a smoother dough.
• Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll and cut.
• Flour Surface: Lightly flour your rolling surface to prevent the dough from sticking, but don’t overdo it.
• Use a Sharp Cookie Cutter: A sharp cutter ensures clean edges and better-shaped cookies.

Variations and Substitutions

• Different Preserves: Feel free to substitute the raspberry preserves with strawberry, apricot, or any other fruit preserves.
• Add Zest: For a citrus twist, add lemon or orange zest to the dough.
• Make It Vegan: Swap the butter for a dairy-free version like coconut oil or vegan butter.
• Glaze Instead of Powdered Sugar: For a shiny finish, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cookies instead of dusting with powdered sugar.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze these cookies?
A: Yes! You can freeze the dough before baking or freeze the finished cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.

Q: Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?
A: Yes, a hand mixer works fine for this recipe. You’ll need to mix the dough by hand or with a spoon once the flour is added.

Q: What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
A: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour to make it easier to handle.

Serving

Serve these shortbread cookies with a hot cup of tea or coffee. They’re a perfect treat for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet snack anytime.

Suggestions

• Pair these cookies with a fresh fruit salad or whipped cream for a light dessert.
• Add them to a cookie platter for special occasions or holiday parties.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!