Raspberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies
Raspberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are an absolute delight that brings nostalgia and warmth to any gathering. This tender, sweet treat is not only a fantastic way to impress guests, but it also serves as a charming reminder of cozy holiday festivities or casual afternoons with friends. The bright burst of raspberry jam hidden inside a tender almond cookie, dusted with powdered sugar, makes for a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. I’m excited to share the details of this delightful recipe, which has become a staple in my home.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
These cookies are a true crowd-pleaser with their unique combination of flavors and textures. You’ll find that they’re quick to whip up, budget-friendly, and perfect for sharing, making them an ideal treat for both busy weeknights and festive occasions. Plus, kids can get involved in the fun of shaping the cookies, making for a memorable family activity.
"These Raspberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies were a hit at our family gathering! The raspberry jam adds a delightful surprise, and they look so pretty dusted with powdered sugar!"
How This Recipe Comes Together
Making Raspberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. You’ll start by preparing a sweet dough infused with almond extract, then create little pockets for the tangy raspberry jam. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a tray full of delicious cookies that will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
What You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to a perfect batch of cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup ground almonds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Feel free to substitute or customize—if you’re looking for a nut-free option, you can leave out the ground almonds, and if raspberry isn’t your jam, blueberry or strawberry could work beautifully as a substitute!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar. Mix until light and fluffy.
- Add the almond extract and mix again until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, ground almonds, and salt, then mix until a soft dough forms.
- Take a small amount of dough and flatten it in your hand. Place a small dollop of raspberry jam in the center, folding the dough over it and rolling it into a ball.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn lightly golden.
- Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool slightly, then roll them in powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy every bite!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These cookies shine on their own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing them with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them on a decorative platter alongside fresh berries or a light fruit salad. They’re also lovely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can typically last up to a week. If you’d like to extend their life a bit longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container for optimal freshness.
Pro Chef Tips
For an extra touch of almond flavor, lightly toast your ground almonds before incorporating them into the dough. This brings out their nuttiness and adds depth to the cookie. Also, check to ensure that your raspberry jam is of good quality—using a rich jam can elevate the flavor immensely!
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Try adding different flavors to the dough, like lemon zest or vanilla extract, to create variations. You could also switch out the raspberry jam for other fruity spreads, such as apricot or orange marmalade, to give the cookies a whole new personality.
Common Questions
-
How long does it take to prepare these cookies?
The overall prep and baking time is about 30-40 minutes, making these cookies a quick option for any event. -
Can I substitute the unsalted butter?
Yes, if you’re looking to cut back on dairy, coconut oil can be a great alternative. -
How do I store any leftovers safely?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week, or freeze them if you want them to last longer.
These Raspberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are not just about taste; they’re about creating moments and memories. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a sweet holiday treat, this recipe is bound to find its way into your heart—and your recipe book!
Raspberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies
Ingredients
For the cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup ground almonds Can be omitted for a nut-free option.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam Can be substituted with blueberry or strawberry jam.
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the almond extract and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, ground almonds, and salt, then mix until a soft dough forms.
- Take a small amount of dough, flatten it in your hand, place a small dollop of raspberry jam in the center, fold the dough over it and roll it into a ball.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool slightly, then roll them in powdered sugar before serving.
