Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies: A Delightful Holiday Treat

Imagine a platter of light, tender almond cookies with a hidden center of sweet raspberry jam, each one rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy, festive finish. Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are a special treat for the holiday season, perfect for cookie exchanges, family gatherings, or as an elegant gift. These cookies are not only delicious but also visually charming, with their snowy exterior hiding a surprise of almond and raspberry flavors inside.

This recipe combines the delicate nuttiness of almonds with the vibrant tartness of raspberry jam, creating a sophisticated yet comforting cookie. Inspired by classic snowball cookies, these raspberry-filled delights have a unique twist that makes them stand out, and they’re easy to make, which means they’re ideal for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike.

Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make these delectable cookies, along with some tips, variations, and serving suggestions.

The Story Behind Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies

The inspiration for Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies comes from traditional snowball cookies, which are popular in many cultures during the winter months. Known for their round shape and powdered sugar coating, these cookies are often made with a simple, buttery shortbread dough and sometimes feature chopped nuts for added texture.

In this recipe, we’ve enhanced the classic snowball with the addition of a sweet raspberry filling and a touch of almond. This combination brings a burst of flavor and adds a beautiful red center to each cookie, which makes them a lovely addition to holiday platters. The almond extract gives the dough a rich nuttiness, while the raspberry jam provides a hint of tartness that balances the sweetness of the cookie.

These cookies not only taste great but also have a charming, snow-dusted appearance that’s ideal for winter festivities. Their small, round shape makes them easy to pop in your mouth, and they’re especially delightful when served alongside warm drinks like hot cocoa or spiced tea. Whether you’re looking to impress at a holiday party or simply enjoy a cozy baking day, these cookies are sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients: A Perfect Balance of Almond and Raspberry

To make these cookies, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious treat with a beautiful balance of flavors.

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Butter gives the cookies a rich, smooth texture and a delicate crumb. Softened butter is easier to cream with sugar, making it the ideal choice for this dough.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Powdered sugar adds sweetness without the graininess of granulated sugar, which keeps the dough soft and tender.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the flavor of the butter and almond in the dough, adding depth to the cookie.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract: Almond extract adds a nutty richness that complements the raspberry filling. It’s a must-have ingredient for achieving that classic almond flavor in the cookie.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Flour provides the structure for the cookie dough, helping it hold its shape while staying light and soft.
• ½ teaspoon salt: A small amount of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• ½ cup finely ground almonds: Ground almonds add texture and a subtle almond flavor that works beautifully with the almond extract. They also give the cookie dough a slightly nutty texture.
• ¼ cup raspberry jam: Raspberry jam provides a sweet and slightly tart center, adding a burst of color and flavor to each cookie.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling): Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar gives them their signature snowball look and adds an extra touch of sweetness.

Optional Additions

• Chopped chocolate: Adding a few chocolate shavings to the dough can give the cookies a hint of chocolate flavor that pairs nicely with the raspberry and almond.
• Orange zest: Adding a small amount of orange zest to the dough brightens the flavors and adds a citrusy touch that complements the almond and raspberry.

Special Garnishes

• Extra powdered sugar for a snowy effect: A second coating of powdered sugar after baking gives the cookies a snowy, festive appearance, perfect for winter holidays.
• Edible glitter or gold dust: If you’re making these for a party or gift, adding a little edible glitter or gold dust on top can make them look extra festive and magical.

Instructions: How to Make Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies

Making Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies is a straightforward process, with just a few steps from start to finish. Here’s how to make them.

Step 1: Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper helps prevent the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Beat until light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a light, tender cookie texture.
3. Add the extracts: Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts, blending well. These flavors will infuse the dough, creating a fragrant and flavorful base for the cookies.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and ground almonds. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Shaping and Filling

1. Form the cookies: Scoop a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball, then flatten it slightly in your palm to create a small disc.
2. Add the raspberry jam: Place about ¼ teaspoon of raspberry jam in the center of each disc. Be careful not to overfill, as too much jam can cause the cookie to leak while baking.
3. Enclose the filling: Gently fold the dough around the jam, rolling it back into a ball to fully enclose the filling. Make sure there are no cracks or gaps to prevent the jam from leaking out during baking.

Step 3: Baking and Finishing

1. Place on the baking sheet: Arrange the filled cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 1 inch apart.
2. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are just starting to turn golden. The tops should remain light in color, which keeps the cookies tender.
3. Cool and roll in powdered sugar: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, roll each cookie in powdered sugar until fully coated. For an extra snowy effect, roll them a second time!

Customizing Your Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies

Flavor Variations

These cookies are easy to customize with different flavors. Here are a few ideas:

• Try a different filling: Use other jams like apricot, strawberry, or blackberry for a unique flavor. Each jam brings a different fruitiness to the cookies.
• Add a touch of spice: A pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg in the dough can add warmth and complexity, complementing the almond flavor.
• Swap out the almond extract: If almond isn’t your favorite flavor, try using a little extra vanilla extract or even a hint of coconut extract for a tropical twist.

Dietary Adaptations

• Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
• Dairy-free option: Use a plant-based butter substitute to keep these cookies dairy-free while still achieving a rich, buttery flavor.

Making It a Gift

These cookies make beautiful and thoughtful gifts. Arrange them in a holiday tin lined with parchment or tissue paper, and add a sprig of holly or a festive ribbon. Their snowy look and surprise filling make them a delightful treat that’s sure to impress.

Serving Tips for Festive Gatherings

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter and add a final dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. For an extra festive touch, consider placing them on a red or green plate or serving tray, adding a few sprigs of rosemary or holly for decoration.

Thematic Décor

To create a winter wonderland theme, serve these cookies alongside other snowy or white-themed treats. Decorate the table with pine branches, candles, and silver accents to complement the snowy look of the cookies.

Complementary Pairings

These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of cocoa, spiced tea, or mulled wine. Their rich, buttery texture and sweet, fruity center complement warm, aromatic beverages that are perfect for holiday gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are a delightful twist on classic holiday cookies. The almond and raspberry flavors combine beautifully, and the powdered sugar coating gives them a charming, snow-kissed look. They’re an ideal choice for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

With their unique flavor and beautiful presentation, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Try them this season, experiment with your favorite flavors, and make them a festive tradition in your holiday baking.

Tips for Making Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh butter, a good almond extract, and a high-quality raspberry jam, will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your cookies. Fresh ingredients will help bring out the almond flavor and make the raspberry filling taste more vibrant.

Adjusting Sweetness

If you prefer a slightly less sweet cookie, you can reduce the powdered sugar in the dough or limit the final powdered sugar coating. This can help balance the flavors, especially if using a particularly sweet jam.

Storage Tips

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you plan to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to a month. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving and re-roll them in powdered sugar if needed.

Make It Ahead

To save time, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to soften slightly at room temperature before shaping and filling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies as part of a holiday cookie platter or gift box. They’re best enjoyed with a fresh dusting of powdered sugar and a warm beverage, making them a perfect treat for winter festivities.

FAQ

Can I use a different jam?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other jams like apricot, blackberry, or strawberry for a unique twist.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Definitely! Prepare the dough up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Let it soften slightly before rolling and filling.

Can I skip the almonds?
Yes, you can replace the ground almonds with extra flour if you prefer a nut-free cookie.

How can I prevent the jam from leaking out?
Ensure the dough fully encloses the jam by pressing the edges tightly together and rolling gently into a ball. Chilling the dough can also help keep the cookies intact during baking.

Can these cookies be made vegan?
Yes, simply replace the butter with a vegan alternative and use a plant-based powdered sugar.

Conclusion

These Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies combine classic flavors with a delightful holiday twist. Their nutty, buttery dough and sweet, vibrant raspberry filling make them a treat that’s as enjoyable to eat as it is to look at. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a gift, these cookies are bound to be a hit with friends and family alike. Enjoy baking and sharing this festive recipe, and bring a bit of holiday magic to every bite!

Print