Name: Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies for Sweet Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 47 min
Ingredients: 1 cups unsalted butter (softened); 2 cups powdered sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cups blanched almonds (finely ground); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cups raspberry filling (seedless jam)

As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of butter and almonds wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to cherished holiday memories. That’s when I decided to bring joy to my family with Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies. Coated in a delicate layer of powdered sugar, these delightful treats capture the magic of the season with their rich, nutty flavor and tart raspberry filling. Not only are these cookies easy to whip up, but they also serve as a stunning centerpiece for any festive gathering. Whether you share them with loved ones or savor them with a cup of coffee, these cookies offer a comforting nod to tradition. Ready to make your own batch of scrumptious Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies? Let’s dive into this fun baking adventure together!

Why are Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies special?

Irresistible flavor: The rich almond cookies combined with tart raspberry filling create a delightful explosion of taste that’s hard to resist.

Perfect for sharing: These cookies make the ultimate gift for friends and family, showcasing your baking skills while spreading holiday cheer.

Easy to customize: Want to try something different? Switch out the raspberry filling for alternatives like Nutella or chocolate to cater to other taste preferences.

Crowd-pleaser: With their unique appearance and mouthwatering flavor, these cookies are sure to impress at any gathering, just like our popular Pumpkin Sugar Cookies or Apple Fritter Cookies.

Versatile baking: They can easily be made gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy these festive treats without compromise.

Bake a batch of Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies and watch them disappear in minutes!

Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Butter – Provides richness and moisture to the dough; use unsalted butter for better control of saltiness.
Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a crumbly texture; essential for that snowy coating.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cookie structure; be careful not to overmix to keep them tender.
Blanched Almonds – Ground almonds infuse a nutty flavor; freshly ground is best, or substitute with almond meal if needed.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; just a pinch (about 1/4 teaspoon) is enough!

For the Raspberry Filling

Raspberry Filling (Seedless Jam or Homemade) – Provides a sweet and tart center; seedless jam ensures a smooth filling, or make your own for a fresh twist.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to creating scrumptious Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies that will delight every palate!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Begin by placing the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing. This creamy base will provide a rich texture and sweetness for your Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, and salt until well blended. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, blending on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen the dough. The mixture should appear crumbly yet cohesive, ready to form delightful cookie shapes.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Using your hands, take small portions of the dough—about a tablespoon each. Roll them into balls before creating a small indentation in the center of each ball. Fill this cavity with a small dollop of tart raspberry filling. Gently fold the dough around the filling to seal it, ensuring no jam is exposed, and then re-roll the balls for a smooth surface.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the prepared cookie balls on the sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn a light golden color. Halfway through, rotate the baking sheet for even baking.

Step 5: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This will allow them to set. Carefully transfer the warm cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, roll each cookie in powdered sugar twice for a snowy finish, perfecting the festive appearance of your Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who love to meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the creamed butter and sugar with the dry ingredients, then refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container. The raspberry filling can also be made ahead and stored separately for up to 3 days in the fridge, maintaining its fresh taste. When ready to bake, shape the chilled dough into balls, fill with your raspberry jam, and bake as per the recipe instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, melt-in-your-mouth cookies with minimal effort, making holiday gatherings even sweeter and stress-free!

How to Store and Freeze Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and preserves their delightful crumbly texture.

Fridge: If you’re looking to extend their freshness, you can store the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure they are covered to prevent them from absorbing odors.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours. If you’d like to refresh the cookies, you can warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

What to Serve with Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies

These delightful treats bring warmth and joy, perfect for creating a cozy holiday atmosphere.

Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy sweetness of hot chocolate contrasts beautifully with the nutty cookies, enhancing their decadent taste.
Freshly Brewed Coffee: The bold flavors of coffee complement the raspberry filling, making each bite feel like a warm embrace.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the cookies’ crumbly texture and raspberry zing.
Fruit Platter: A medley of fresh fruit brightens the table and provides a refreshing balance to the cookies’ richness.
Spiced Tea: The warmth of spiced tea enhances the spirit of the season, making each cookie feel even more festive.
Cheese Board: Serve with a variety of cheeses for a sophisticated pairing; the creamy texture contrasts nicely with the crispy cookies.
Holiday Punch: A fruity punch adds a bubbly, celebratory touch that perfectly pairs with the sweet-tart flavors of the cookies.
Buttercream Frosted Cupcakes: Offer a selection of cupcakes for an extra treat; their sweet, fluffy frosting is a delightful match for the cookies.
Candied Nuts: Sweet, crunchy nuts provide a delightful texture contrast, making for a perfect munching accompaniment alongside the cookies.

Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore delicious twists on these classic cookies that will tickle your taste buds!

Nut Substitution: Swap blanched almonds for pecans or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor. Each nut adds a unique essence that can elevate the overall taste.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family. You won’t sacrifice flavor or texture!
Flavor Extracts: Introduce an extra layer of flavor by adding vanilla or almond extract to the dough. A splash of rum can transport these cookies to a festive paradise.
Alternative Fillings: Change up the raspberry delight with Nutella or chocolate ganache for a decadent chocolatey surprise. Chocolate lovers will be begging for more!
Cocoa Powder Addition: For a chocolatey spin, add a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dough. Imagine these cookies with a rich chocolate base and sweet raspberry filling.
Crispy Texture: Add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the dough for an even more crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Trust me, the difference is magical!
Festive Sprinkles: Before rolling the cookies in powdered sugar, sprinkle a few festive colored sugars on top for a fun holiday look. A little cheer can go a long way!
Spice it Up: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. These spices will warm your heart and create a cozy vibe for holiday gatherings.

With these variations, you can enjoy Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies like never before! For more delightful treats, don’t miss out on our Chocolate Brownie Cookies or delightful Pumpkin Sugar Cookies. Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies

• Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted; this is crucial for a creamy dough that holds its shape during baking.

• Gentle Mixing: Combine your dough gently—overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Aim for a crumbly texture that still holds together.

• Cool Filling: Make sure your raspberry filling is completely cool before adding it to the cookies; warm filling can compromise the dough’s integrity.

• Uniform Size: For even baking, use a cookie scoop for uniform dough portions, ensuring all cookies bake at the same rate and finish.

• Double Dusting: Roll your cooled cookies in powdered sugar twice for a gorgeous, snowy finish that adds an irresistible sweetness to your Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies.

Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best raspberries for the filling?
Absolutely! When selecting raspberries, look for plump berries with vibrant color; they should be fragrant and free from mold. If you’re using frozen raspberries, ensure they are bright and packed without freezer burn. For the best flavor, try to use fresh berries when in season!

How should I store the Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies?
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them fresh even longer, place the container in your fridge where they’ll last about a week. Just make sure they are properly covered to avoid absorbing odors from other foods.

Can I freeze Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies? If so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your cookies, first, let them cool completely. Then, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 2 hours until they are firm. After that, transfer the cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag and label with the date. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or gently warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

What should I do if the dough is too crumbly?
Very! If your dough is too crumbly and doesn’t hold together, you can try adding a teaspoon of softened butter or water, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Make sure you don’t overwork the dough, as this can make your cookies tough! Remember, a little crumbly consistency is normal, but you want it to form a ball effectively.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make gluten-free Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies! Simply substitute regular all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free flour blend. It’s a fantastic way to ensure everyone can enjoy these delightful treats, especially during the holiday season when sharing is key!

Can I use a different filling instead of raspberry?
Absolutely! The more the merrier! You can switch out the raspberry filling for other options such as Nutella, chocolate ganache, or even a classic lemon curd. Each variation brings its own unique flair to the cookies, making them versatile for any taste preference or occasion.