Indulge in the delicate flavors of Raspberry Swirl Cookies, crafted with a buttery cream cheese dough, sweet raspberry jam, and a dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for holiday celebrations or as a luxurious treat any time of year, these cookies combine stunning presentation with unforgettable flavor.

Why You’ll Love Raspberry Swirl Cookies

These cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a little bit of edible magic. Here’s what makes them irresistible:

• Stunning Design: The swirls of vibrant raspberry jam create a visually delightful treat perfect for special occasions.
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: The cream cheese and butter combine to make a soft, tender dough that practically dissolves on your tongue.
• Customizable Flavors: Swap the jam or add creative twists to make these cookies uniquely yours.
• Easy Elegance: With just a few ingredients and simple techniques, you can create cookies that look like they came from a high-end bakery.

Ingredients for Raspberry Swirl Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful cookies:

Key Ingredients:

• Cream Cheese (8 ounces): Softened for easy mixing, this creates a rich and creamy base for the dough.
• Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup): Also softened, butter adds flavor and flakiness.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 1/2 cups): Sifted to ensure a smooth and pliable dough.
• Kosher Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the sweetness.
• Raspberry Jam (1/3 cup): Seedless jam works best for a smooth, clean swirl.
• Powdered Sugar: For dusting and a festive finishing touch.

How to Make Raspberry Swirl Cookies

1. Prepare the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and well-combined.
• Gradually add the sifted flour and kosher salt, mixing until the dough comes together into a cohesive ball.

2. Chill the Dough

• Shape the dough into a flat disc and wrap it in plastic wrap.
• Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to roll out.

3. Roll Out the Dough

• Generously flour a clean surface and place the chilled dough on top.
• Roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 10 inches by 12 inches, then continue to roll it out further into a larger rectangle about 10 inches by 30 inches.

4. Add the Raspberry Jam

• Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch margin along one of the shorter edges to seal the log.

5. Roll and Chill

• Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from the jam-covered end and finishing with the unjammed edge to seal.
• Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up before slicing.

6. Slice and Bake

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Remove the chilled log from the refrigerator and slice it into 1/4-inch thick cookies using a sharp knife or a piece of sewing thread for clean cuts.
• Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
• Bake for 17-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

7. Cool and Finish

• Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a festive and elegant finish.

Storage and Freezing Tips

• Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the unbaked dough log or fully baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before baking or serving.

Variations and Substitutions

Make It Your Own:

• Jam Flavors: Try apricot, strawberry, or blackberry jam for a new twist.
• Zest Additions: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the dough for a citrusy aroma.
• Nutty Touch: Sprinkle finely chopped nuts over the jam before rolling for added texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be made and refrigerated for up to 2 days before rolling and baking.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading?

Ensure the dough is chilled before slicing and baking, and avoid overloading with jam.

Can I use homemade jam?

Absolutely! Just ensure the jam is thick and seedless for the best results.

Conclusion

Raspberry Swirl Cookies are the perfect combination of beauty and flavor, making them an essential addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Whether you’re gifting these cookies to loved ones or serving them at a festive gathering, their stunning swirls and melt-in-your-mouth texture are guaranteed to impress. So grab your ingredients and get ready to create a batch of cookies that will have everyone asking for seconds!