These soft and buttery sugar cookies get a fruity twist with swirls of real raspberry. Pretty in pink and bursting with flavor, they’re perfect for spring gatherings, picnics, or a sweet snack anytime.
For the Sugar Cookie Dough:
2½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
1¼ cups (250g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Raspberry Swirl:
½ cup fresh raspberries (or thawed frozen)
2 tablespoons sugar
Optional: ½ teaspoon lemon juice (to brighten flavor)
Make the Raspberry Swirl: In a small bowl, mash the raspberries with sugar (and lemon juice if using). Stir into a thick puree and set aside.
Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. In a separate mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla, mixing until well combined. Slowly add dry ingredients and beat just until the dough forms.
Add the Raspberry Swirl: Gently fold the raspberry puree into the dough using a spatula. Avoid overmixing to preserve a marbled, streaky appearance.
Scoop and Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and space them a few inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cool and Serve: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or fully cooled.
Fresh or Frozen: Frozen raspberries work well—just thaw and drain before mashing.
Flavor Twist: Add lemon zest or a drop of almond extract for extra dimension.
Texture Tip: Don’t overbake! The centers should stay soft for best texture.
Make-Ahead: Dough can be chilled for up to 2 days or frozen for later use.
Presentation: For a decorative touch, press a few extra raspberry bits on top of each cookie before baking.