Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe

Buttery, nutty, and filled with a sweet-tart surprise, Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are a festive treat destined to steal the show at your next gathering. Each delicate bite delivers the tender crunch of almonds and a burst of raspberry jam, all wrapped in a snowy blanket of powdered sugar. These cookies not only look beautiful on a platter, but they also bring a magical combination of flavors and textures that instantly transport you to cozy holiday afternoons or special teatime moments. If you’ve never made these before, get ready to fall in love with a cookie that truly feels like a gift!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies is how a handful of simple ingredients come together to create such a dreamy treat. Each component is chosen to complement the others, from the rich buttery base to the bright raspberry filling and nutty undertones. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides that melt-in-your-mouth richness and keeps the dough delightfully tender.
• Powdered sugar (1/2 cup, plus 1/2 cup for coating): Adds sweetness while ensuring a soft crumb and snowy finish.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Deepens flavor, giving the cookies a warm, inviting aroma.
• Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): Brings out the star nutty note and elevates the cookie into something extra special.
• All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): Creates just the right structure—be sure to measure carefully for perfect texture.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and makes all the other flavors shine.
• Finely ground almonds or almond flour (3/4 cup): Adds irresistibly soft crunch and a dose of nutty flavor.
• Raspberry jam, seedless preferred (1/2 cup): Nestled inside each cookie, it offers a lovely pop of tangy fruit flavor.

How to Make Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies slide off easily with minimal cleanup. Gather all your ingredients and allow the butter to soften—it’ll make a world of difference when you start creaming!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for achieving the signature tender crumb of Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies, so take your time and enjoy the transformation as the mixture turns pale and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Flavorings

Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract, making sure both are well incorporated. The combination of these extracts will give your cookies a lovely depth and that special bakery-style fragrance.

Step 4: Blend in the Dry Ingredients

Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground almonds (or almond flour) right into the butter mixture. Gently stir it all together until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix—stop once the dough looks cohesive, as this keeps the cookies tender and light.

Step 5: Shape and Fill the Cookies

Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough for each cookie. Flatten it slightly in your palm to create a small disc, then place roughly 1/2 teaspoon of raspberry jam in the center. Carefully fold the edges up around the jam and seal well, then roll into a smooth ball. This is when Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies get their hidden surprise! Place each ball on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space in between.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide your tray into the oven and bake for 14 to 16 minutes, just until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should stay pale—this keeps them nice and soft. Let them cool on the tray for around 5 minutes, which helps them set before handling.

Step 7: Coat in Powdered Sugar

While still warm, gently roll each cookie in your reserved 1/2 cup powdered sugar so it sticks for that classic snowball look. Once the cookies are completely cool, give them a second roll in sugar so they look bakery-worthy and extra festive.

How to Serve Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies

Garnishes

For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle a little additional powdered sugar on top just before serving. You can even add a small sprinkle of finely chopped almonds for a subtle crunch and hint at the nutty inside.

Side Dishes

The bright, fruity flavor pairs beautifully with hot tea or coffee. For a festive dessert spread, try serving your Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies alongside fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a few squares of dark chocolate. If you’re hosting a holiday party, these cookies make a perfect addition to a cookie tray with shortbread, biscotti, or spiced ginger snaps.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your cookies in little paper cups on a pretty platter, or stack them in a glass jar tied with a ribbon for a memorable homemade gift. For special occasions, layer them on a tiered cake stand with sprigs of fresh mint or edible flowers—they’ll look just as good as they taste!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any extra Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct heat or sunlight. They’ll stay deliciously soft for up to 5 days while maintaining their signature crumb and flavor.

Freezing

If you plan to make them ahead, Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies freeze beautifully. After cooling completely, layer them in an airtight container with parchment paper between the layers. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to two months—just thaw at room temperature whenever you need a quick, special treat.

Reheating

While these cookies are wonderful at room temperature, if you’d like to freshen them up, you can warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for just 3 to 5 minutes. This revives their gentle texture and lets the almond aroma bloom again. Dust with a little extra powdered sugar afterward for a flawless look.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Dessert

Absolutely! While raspberry jam gives a lovely tart punch and contrasts beautifully with the almond, feel free to experiment with strawberry, apricot, or blackcurrant if you want to try something new.

Do I need to use seedless jam?

Seedless raspberry jam creates the smoothest filling, but if you don’t mind a bit of texture, a standard raspberry preserve will work just fine. Just make sure it isn’t too runny, or it may escape the cookie during baking.

How do I keep the jam from leaking out while baking?

Take care to fully seal the dough around the jam; gently pinch any seams shut and roll the ball smooth before baking. Chilling the filled cookie balls for about 15 minutes before baking can also help prevent leaks.

Can I make Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies gluten free?

Yes! Try swapping the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten free flour blend. The almond flour already in the recipe helps with structure and flavor, so you’ll still get that classic texture.

Are these cookies good for gifting?

They make wonderful gifts! Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies hold their shape and flavor well, so they’re perfect for packing in festive tins or bags to share with friends and family.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cookie that’s truly magical, treat yourself and your loved ones to Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies. They’re as fun to make as they are to eat, and once you try that jammy center paired with almond and buttery richness, you’ll want to bake them for every celebration. Happy baking!

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