Raspberry Swirl Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines buttery richness with the vibrant tartness of berries, you absolutely must try these Raspberry Swirl Cookies. These cookies boast a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture thanks to the cream cheese and butter, while the ribbon of raspberry jam adds a cheerful pop of flavor and a gorgeous swirl throughout each bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or an everyday indulgence, Raspberry Swirl Cookies bring warmth and joy straight from your oven to your heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret behind the charm of Raspberry Swirl Cookies. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: from the creamy smoothness of cream cheese to the delicate tartness of raspberry jam, everything comes together for a truly irresistible cookie experience.

• Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Adds a luscious creaminess that keeps the cookies tender and moist.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Provides a rich, buttery flavor and delicate crumb.
• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups, sifted): Forms the sturdy but tender base of your cookie dough.
• Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Seedless raspberry jam (1/3 cup): Delivers that signature fruity swirl and vibrant color.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting): Adds a delicate, sweet finish and makes every cookie picture-perfect.

How to Make Raspberry Swirl Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Base Ingredients

Start by combining the softened butter and cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Beat them together until they become silky smooth — this step is key for getting that tender, melt-away texture in your cookies.

Step 2: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Next, gradually fold in your sifted all-purpose flour and kosher salt. Mixing gently but thoroughly will help the dough come together without overworking it, which keeps your cookies beautifully soft and delicate.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This resting period firms up the dough, making it easier to roll while keeping the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Step 4: Add the Raspberry Jam Swirl

Roll out your chilled dough into a long rectangle roughly 10 by 30 inches. Spread the seedless raspberry jam evenly, but leave a small border uncovered on one side for rolling. The jam’s natural sweetness and slight tartness will shine beautifully here.

Step 5: Roll and Chill Again

Carefully roll the dough starting from the jam-covered edge into a tight log, then refrigerate it for another 15 minutes. This second chill ensures neat slices and maintains those signature swirls in the cookies.

Step 6: Slice and Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Slice the chilled log into delicate 1/4-inch thick cookies and arrange them on a parchment-lined sheet. Bake for 17 to 20 minutes, until they’re just lightly golden and the aroma fills your kitchen with pure happiness.

Step 7: Cool and Add the Final Touch

Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Just before serving, dust them lightly with powdered sugar to add an elegant, snowy finish that complements the raspberry swirls beautifully.

How to Serve Raspberry Swirl Cookies

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, consider garnishing your Raspberry Swirl Cookies with a few fresh raspberries or a sprig of mint. This not only adds a burst of color but also an inviting freshness that pairs wonderfully with the cookies’ rich flavor.

Side Dishes

These cookies are lovely alongside a cup of hot tea, rich coffee, or even a glass of cold milk for dipping. They also make a delightful companion to a bowl of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if you want to elevate your dessert game.

Creative Ways to Present

Present these Raspberry Swirl Cookies stacked on a beautiful plate or arranged in a clear jar for a rustic, homey feel. Wrapping a few in parchment with a bright ribbon also makes for a charming homemade gift that friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Raspberry Swirl Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh and delicious for up to four days, making them perfect for enjoying throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to keep your Raspberry Swirl Cookies longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months and thaw beautifully whenever you’re ready for a tasty treat.

Reheating

For that freshly-baked warmth, reheat cookies in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back their soft, tender texture and makes that lovely raspberry aroma fill your kitchen all over again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of jam?

While fresh or frozen raspberries can add a lovely flavor, raspberry jam provides the right consistency and sweetness to create the signature swirl without making the dough too wet or difficult to roll.

Is cream cheese necessary in the dough?

Cream cheese is key to achieving the tender, moist crumb that sets Raspberry Swirl Cookies apart. Skipping it would change the texture and flavor significantly.

Can I substitute another jam flavor?

Absolutely! You can experiment with strawberry, blueberry, or apricot jam, but keep in mind that the classic raspberry swirl offers a nice balance of tart and sweet that’s hard to beat.

How thick should I roll the dough before baking?

Slice the rolled dough into about 1/4-inch thick cookies. This thickness ensures even baking and that perfect balance between crisp edges and soft centers.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Definitely! The dough can be made and rolled out, then refrigerated or even frozen before baking, making this recipe very convenient for planning ahead.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something truly magical about Raspberry Swirl Cookies that makes every bite feel like a special moment. With their tender texture and playful berry ribbons, they’re sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to enjoy these delightful cookies as much as I do — so grab your ingredients, turn on your oven, and get ready for some joyful baking!

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