Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, especially when those cookies are Raspberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies! These delightful treats are a beautiful combination of rich almond flavor and a burst of tangy raspberry sweetness that will have everyone reaching for another. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and a fine dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are perfect for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to cozy afternoon snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely ground almonds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, invitingly airy.
- Add in the vanilla extract and almond extract, blending until evenly combined, filling the air with a beautiful aroma.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, finely ground almonds, and salt to ensure an even mixture of dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry mixture into the butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
- Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into smooth balls, celebrating the moment of creating cookie dough perfection.
- Flatten each ball slightly in your palm, then place about 1/2 teaspoon of raspberry jam right in the center—a little tropical surprise!
- Carefully fold the dough around the jam to seal it, gently reforming the ball shape, ensuring that the jam is tucked away for a lovely surprise when bitten into.
- Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each ball to allow for some spreading during baking.
- Bake them in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms take on a lightly golden hue, which creates a perfect textural contrast to the soft interior.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Finally, once the cookies have cooled, dust them generously with additional powdered sugar for that quintessential snow-capped effect!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize these cookies! You can substitute the raspberry jam with your favorite fruit preserves, such as apricot or strawberry, for a different flavor twist. Additionally, if you’re a nut lover, adding a few chopped nuts into the dough can enhance the texture even more. Just be sure not to overbake the cookies—they should remain soft and tender!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases the beauty of the creaming method, where butter and sugar are beaten together until fluffy.
This technique is key to achieving light, airy cookies that melt in your mouth. Additionally, don’t forget to fold the dough around the jam gently—this ensures that the sweet surprise remains intact and enhances the overall flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze wonderfully. Just place them in an airtight container, and they will keep in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before dusting with powdered sugar and serving.
How should I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They stay fresh and delicious, perfect for sneaking an afternoon treat!
Conclusion
These Raspberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a delightful experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. With their inviting flavors and charming presentation, they are sure to become a beloved recipe in your baking repertoire. Bake a batch today, and let their delightful aroma fill your home, enticing everyone to join in the deliciousness. Enjoy your baking adventures!