Black Raspberry and Lemon Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Black Raspberry and Lemon Shortbread Cookies Recipe: A Juicy & Citrusy Delight 🍇🍋✨

1. Introduction

Welcome to our delightful raspberry shortbread recipe, where luscious black raspberries and zesty lemons combine to create the perfect fruit cookies experience. These shortbread cookies are known for their buttery, crumbly texture, enhanced by the vibrant flavors of fresh berries and citrus. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet, tangy treat, these lemon cookies with raspberry pieces are sure to impress. Prepare to indulge in a delectable journey with this fruit cookies recipe that balances sweetness and tartness beautifully.

2. Ingredients for Black Raspberry and Lemon Shortbread Cookies

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (60g) granulated sugar
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen black raspberries, chopped
• Zest of 1 large lemon
• Juice of half a lemon
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

3. Preparing the Perfect Raspberry Shortbread Based on Classic Lemon Cookies

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to combine flavors and textures to make the best raspberry shortbread. This recipe draws inspiration from classic lemon cookies, especially in the use of fresh citrus zest and juice. The secret to a fluffy yet crumbly fruit cookies is to handle the dough gently and to mix the berries carefully to prevent bleeding. Follow these easy steps to bring your raspberry shortbread to life.

4. Step-by-step Instructions for Making Black Raspberry and Lemon Shortbread Cookies

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This creates a tender base for your shortbread cookies.

2. Add Vanilla and Lemon Zest

Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest to infuse the cookies with bright, citrusy flavors that complement the rich butter.

3. Incorporate the Flour and Salt

Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. The dough should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.

4. Fold in the Black Raspberries and Lemon Juice

Gently fold the chopped black raspberries and lemon juice into the dough, taking care not to overmix to prevent the berries from bleeding excessively.

5. Shape and Chill the Dough

Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps to firm up the dough for clean, even slices.

6. Bake the Fruit Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough between parchment paper to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-18 minutes until edges are lightly golden.

7. Cool and Finish

Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

5. Storage Tips for Fresh and Flavorful Black Raspberry and Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Store these fruit cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To maintain crunchiness, you can also freeze the cookies for up to 3 months and re-crisp them in the oven before serving. For more tips on healthy meal planning and keeping treats fresh, visit our Meal Plan & Nutrition Guide.

6. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Lemon and Raspberry Cookies

These raspberry shortbread cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or a glass of sparkling wine. For an elegant presentation, serve with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey or lemon glaze. They make excellent additions to dessert platters, afternoon tea parties, or holiday celebrations where the combination of citrus and fruit cookies will surely impress your guests. To explore more delightful desserts, check out our Mini Vegan Lemon Tarts.

7. Frequently Asked Questions About Raspberry Shortbread

Q: Can I use frozen black raspberries for this recipe?

A: Yes, frozen black raspberries work well. Thaw and drain excess moisture before folding into the dough to prevent sogginess.

Q: How can I prevent the berries from bleeding into the dough?

A: Gently fold the berries into chilled dough and consider tossing them lightly in flour beforehand to reduce bleeding during baking.

Q: Can I substitute other berries for black raspberries?

A: Absolutely! Blueberries, strawberries, or red raspberries make excellent substitutions, each adding their unique flavor profile to your fruit cookies.

8. Final Tips to Perfect Your Black Raspberry and Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Remember to handle the dough delicately and chill it thoroughly for the best results. You can experiment with different citrus zests or add a touch of almond extract for personalized flavor variations. Enjoy baking and sharing these irresistible vegan berry cookies anytime you crave a sweet, fruity treat!

9. Conclusion

Incorporating fresh black raspberries and zesty lemon into your shortbread cookies creates an irresistible dessert that perfectly balances tartness and sweetness. With their buttery crumbly texture and vibrant fruit flavors, these fruit cookies are sure to become a favorite for any occasion. Try this raspberry shortbread recipe today and delight your palate with a homemade treat that celebrates the best of seasonal berries and citrus. Happy baking!

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