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Inspired by the nostalgic trio of Neapolitan ice cream flavors, these Raspberry Neapolitan Cookies are a colorful and fruity twist on a classic. Created by Britney Brown-Chamberlain, these marbled cookies feature the vibrant combination of vanilla, raspberry, and chocolate doughs swirled into a delightful treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Raspberry Dough:

¾ cup (170 grams) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
1 large egg (50 grams)
1¼ teaspoons (5 grams) vanilla extract
2 cups (250 grams) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon (1.5 grams) baking powder
¼ teaspoon (0.75 gram) kosher salt
2 tablespoons (12 grams) freeze-dried raspberry powder

Chocolate Dough:

¾ cup (170 grams) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
1 large egg (50 grams)
1 teaspoon (4 grams) vanilla extract
2 cups (250 grams) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon (1.5 grams) baking powder
¼ teaspoon (0.75 gram) kosher salt
¼ cup (21 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder

Vanilla Dough:

¾ cup (170 grams) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
1 large egg (50 grams)
1 tablespoon (13 grams) vanilla bean paste
2 cups (250 grams) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon (1.5 grams) baking powder
¼ teaspoon (0.75 gram) kosher salt

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Prepare each dough separately: For each flavor, cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy, add the egg and vanilla (or flavoring), and mix until combined. Whisk the dry ingredients separately, then mix into the butter mixture until just combined.
Chill each dough for 30 minutes to 1 hour until slightly firm.
To form the cookies, take about 1 teaspoon of each dough (raspberry, chocolate, and vanilla) and press together, then roll gently into a ball without fully blending the colors.
Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft.
Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrients

Nutritional details were not provided in the source. However, based on standard cookie recipes of similar size and ingredients, each cookie is approximately:

Calories: ~160–190 kcal
Fat: ~9–11g
Carbohydrates: ~22–25g
Sugar: ~12–15g
Protein: ~2g

The Charm of Neapolitan-Inspired Desserts

Neapolitan desserts have long charmed dessert lovers with their trio of pink, white, and brown hues. Originating from Neapolitan ice cream, this trifecta typically features strawberry (or raspberry), vanilla, and chocolate, arranged side-by-side. These cookies pay tribute to that color and flavor concept but with a fresh perspective. Rather than being served in layers, the three doughs are gently swirled together in each cookie, resulting in a marbled effect that is both stunning and enticing. Each bite is a blend of fruity tang, buttery sweetness, and rich cocoa, delivering a taste that evolves as you chew.

A Cookie for Every Occasion

Raspberry Neapolitan Cookies are versatile enough for any celebration. Their striking appearance makes them perfect for birthdays, baby showers, tea parties, Valentine’s Day, or even holiday cookie exchanges. The visual appeal alone draws people in, making these cookies a centerpiece treat that sparks conversation and admiration. Beyond their appearance, they offer a delightful balance of flavors, which appeals to both kids and adults alike.

For those who enjoy gifting homemade treats, these cookies also package beautifully. Their sturdy structure and eye-catching swirls make them ideal for cookie boxes or gift tins during festive seasons or special occasions.

Why Raspberry Instead of Strawberry?

While strawberry is the traditional flavor in Neapolitan desserts, this cookie recipe takes a creative turn by incorporating raspberry. Freeze-dried raspberry powder brings a tart, concentrated berry flavor that blends beautifully with the sweetness of the dough. Raspberry also lends a vibrant pink hue without the need for artificial coloring, making the cookies not only flavorful but also visually natural. The slight tartness adds depth and a sophisticated twist that balances the richer flavors of vanilla and chocolate.

Baking with Visual Flair

What truly sets these cookies apart is the marbled effect. Each cookie is formed by rolling together a small portion of raspberry, chocolate, and vanilla doughs. The trick is to press the portions gently without overmixing, so the colors remain distinct but still meld in a swirled, painterly pattern. The result is a cookie that looks like edible art—no two are exactly alike, giving each one a unique charm.

This visual aspect turns the baking process into a creative activity. It’s especially enjoyable for families and kids who want to get hands-on in the kitchen. The doughs are easy to work with once chilled, and forming the cookies is fun and forgiving.

Texture and Flavor Profile

Each cookie delivers a soft, chewy texture with slightly crisp edges. The flavor profile is dynamic yet balanced: the chocolate dough offers a mellow bitterness from the cocoa, the vanilla dough brings warm, buttery sweetness, and the raspberry dough provides a bright, fruity lift. Together, they create a cookie that’s multi-dimensional without being overly sweet or rich.

The use of real butter in all three doughs ensures a melt-in-your-mouth quality, while vanilla bean paste in the vanilla dough elevates the aromatic sweetness to a more refined level. The freeze-dried raspberry powder doesn’t just flavor the dough—it adds color and texture that intensifies as the cookie bakes.

A Treat for All Ages

These cookies cater to all age groups. Kids are naturally drawn to their colorful appearance and sweet taste, while adults appreciate the nostalgic yet elevated flavor profile. Whether paired with a glass of milk, a hot latte, or an herbal tea, they make a satisfying snack or dessert.

They’re also allergy-conscious to an extent—no nuts are included in the recipe, making them suitable for nut-free households. For those looking to further adapt the recipe, it’s possible to make them gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, or to make them dairy-free using plant-based butter alternatives.

Great for Seasonal Baking and Themed Events

Because of their pink, brown, and cream colors, Raspberry Neapolitan Cookies fit seamlessly into seasonal and themed events. Use them for Valentine’s Day treats, spring brunches, or even romantic dessert tables. For birthday parties, their playful colors and sweet flavor are always a hit. They also make a wonderful addition to Easter baskets or Mother’s Day cookie boxes, bringing a homemade touch that shows care and thoughtfulness.

The cookies also photograph beautifully, which is an added bonus for food bloggers, bakers, or anyone building a visually appealing dessert spread.

Creative Variations to Try

While the original recipe is delightful as-is, adventurous bakers can explore a few twists. One idea is to add a drop of peppermint extract to the chocolate dough for a seasonal twist. Or you can swap the raspberry powder for freeze-dried strawberries if you want to return to a more traditional Neapolitan flavor. A fun variation for adults is to add a splash of espresso to the chocolate dough for a mocha layer.

You can also drizzle the finished cookies with white chocolate or dust them with powdered sugar for an extra festive finish. Some bakers even like to sandwich two cookies with raspberry jam or chocolate ganache in between for a more decadent treat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Raspberry Neapolitan Cookies store well and maintain their flavor and texture for several days. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, or freeze them for longer storage. You can also freeze the dough before baking—just portion the dough balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag or container. Bake from frozen with an added minute or two.

This make-ahead option is perfect for busy home bakers or for preparing treats ahead of the holiday rush.

Conclusion

Raspberry Neapolitan Cookies bring together nostalgia, flavor, and artistry in a single, delightful treat. Their playful colors and layered tastes offer a multi-sensory dessert experience that is as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, gifting a homemade treat, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cookies strike the perfect balance of beauty and taste. With their creative use of raspberry, vanilla, and chocolate, they elevate the everyday cookie into something truly special. Perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners, this recipe invites you to enjoy the magic of baking with a colorful twist.

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