Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe

If you are searching for a delightful treat that brings together the nutty warmth of almonds and the sweet-tart burst of raspberry jam, the Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe has you covered! These delicate cookies are melt-in-your-mouth tender, with a dusty snowy finish of powdered sugar that makes them feel extra special. Perfect for gifting, tea-time, or just a cozy day at home, these little pillows of joy combine simple, wholesome ingredients in the most charming way. I can’t wait to share this recipe that’s become a beloved classic wherever I bring it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for these cookies is delightfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role. From the creamy butter that ensures a tender crumb, to the almond meal that infuses a toasty aroma and texture, every component builds towards that perfect balance of buttery richness and fruity sweetness.

• Unsalted butter, 1 cup (2 sticks), softened: Provides a rich, creamy base essential for tender cookies.
• Powdered sugar, 1/2 cup plus extra for dusting: Adds sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth fine texture, with extra perfect for the snowy finish.
• Pure almond extract, 1 teaspoon: Gives a fragrant almond flavor that elevates the cookie beautifully.
• All-purpose flour, 2 cups: The foundation that gives structure without toughness.
• Finely ground almonds (almond meal), 1/2 cup: Adds wonderful moistness and natural nutty flavor.
• Salt, 1/4 teaspoon: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavors.
• Raspberry jam, 1/2 cup (seedless preferred): The star filling that adds a burst of fruity brightness inside every bite.

How to Make Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your cookies will bake evenly and won’t stick, giving them that perfect texture and shape.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter together with 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and effortlessly creamy. This process is key to a tender texture in the final cookie.

Step 3: Add the Almond Extract

Next, stir in the pure almond extract. This little splash of flavor transforms the cookie, lending it a warm, nutty aroma that hints at what’s to come.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond meal, and salt. This dry mixture adds both structure and that irresistible almond flavor and texture that define these snowball cookies.

Step 5: Mix Dry into Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here, or the cookies might turn out tough instead of tender.

Step 6: Chill and Shape the Dough

Divide your dough in half and roll each portion into a log around 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap and chill them for 30 minutes so the dough firms up and is easier to slice cleanly.

Step 7: Slice and Fill with Raspberry Jam

Slice the chilled logs into 1/4 inch thick rounds. Place half of these rounds on your prepared baking sheet. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of seedless raspberry jam onto each cookie base, then gently top with the remaining dough rounds, pressing the edges lightly to seal the filling inside.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake your jam-filled snowball cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, watching closely for the bottoms to turn just a light golden. The tops should remain pale, preserving their delicate, buttery appearance.

Step 9: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar

Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet to set their shape. Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar to create that signature snowball look—and an irresistible sweetness.

How to Serve Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra touch of presentation and flavor, consider sprinkling a pinch of chopped toasted almonds on top of the powdered sugar. This adds crunch and emphasizes the almond theme beautifully. A few fresh raspberries on the side can brighten the plate as well.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea, a robust coffee, or even a chilled glass of milk. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for contrast between cold and tender warmth.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the cookies in pretty tiers for a festive gathering, or arrange them neatly in a decorative box lined with parchment and tie with a satin ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift. You can also sandwich two or three cookies on a dessert plate with softened cream cheese frosting for a holiday spin.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay delicious and tender for about 3 to 4 days—enough time to enjoy a cozy tea break or share with friends.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies either before baking (as dough logs wrapped tightly in plastic) or after baking (in an airtight container). Dough logs freeze well for up to 2 months; simply thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking. Baked cookies keep their lovely texture frozen for about 1 month.

Reheating

To gently warm your cookies, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back the fresh-baked softness without melting the jam filling or the powdered sugar topping.

FAQs

Can I substitute almond meal with another nut meal?

Absolutely! While almond meal gives these cookies their signature flavor, finely ground hazelnuts or pecans can be used for a different but equally delicious nutty note. Keep the same quantity to maintain the right texture.

What if I don’t have pure almond extract?

If almond extract is unavailable, vanilla extract can be used instead, though the flavor will be less distinctly almond. To compensate, consider adding a small amount of finely chopped almonds for extra texture and taste.

Is seedless raspberry jam necessary?

Seedless jam is recommended because it creates a smooth filling that seals easily between the cookie layers. If you use jam with seeds, be gentle when sealing to avoid jams squeezing out or seeds interfering with the cookie edges.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, you can adapt this recipe. Almond meal remains the same as it’s naturally gluten-free. Check that your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free if you take this route.

Why do the cookie tops stay pale while the bottoms turn golden?

The dough logs and the way the cookies are filled results in a delicate surface that shouldn’t brown too much. Baking at 350°F and watching carefully helps the bottoms develop a slight golden crust, which adds a subtle crunch, whereas the tops stay soft and snowy for that signature appearance.

Final Thoughts

If you want a cookie that feels like a warm hug from a good friend, the Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s simple to make, wonderfully flavorful, and perfect for sharing or savoring just for yourself. I hope you have as much fun baking and enjoying these sweet treasures as I always do!

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