Raspberry Almond Snowballs

Tender and delightful, Raspberry Almond Snowballs are a perfect treat for any occasion. These almond cookies, featuring sweet raspberry jam centers rolled in powdered sugar, offer a burst of flavor that makes them irresistible. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy evening at home, these cookies are sure to impress with their unique combination of textures and tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of almond and raspberry creates a sweet and nutty taste that’s simply unforgettable.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these snowballs without any fuss, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for holiday parties or casual get-togethers, these cookies can fit into any occasion seamlessly.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved! Shaping and filling the cookie dough is a fun activity for little hands.
• Impressive Presentation: The snowy appearance from powdered sugar makes these cookies look as good as they taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Raspberry Almond Snowballs, ensure you have the right tools handy. Having everything prepared will streamline the baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Small saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your cookies evenly without mess.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for heating the raspberry jam mixture to achieve the right consistency.

Ingredients

Tender almond cookies with sweet raspberry jam centers, rolled in powdered sugar. These snowballs hide a fruity surprise inside.

For the Cookies

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

For the Filling

• 3/4 cup raspberry jam (seedless preferred)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Rolling

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

How to Make Raspberry Almond Snowballs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine:
* All-purpose flour
* Almond flour
* Baking powder
* Salt

Whisk together until blended.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat together:
* Softened unsalted butter
* Granulated sugar

Continue until fluffy. This step adds air to the mixture for lighter cookies.

Step 5: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Add:
* Large egg
* Vanilla extract
* Almond extract

Mix until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 7: Prepare Raspberry Filling

In a small saucepan, combine:
* Raspberry jam
* Cornstarch
* Lemon juice

Heat over medium heat until thickened, then cool completely.

Step 8: Shape Dough Balls

Shape the dough into balls about one inch in diameter. Make an indent in each ball with your finger or thumb.

Step 9: Fill with Jam

Fill each indent with cooled raspberry filling. Carefully close the dough around it to seal.

Step 10: Roll in Powdered Sugar

Roll each filled ball in powdered sugar until coated evenly.

Step 11: Bake Cookies

Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12–14 minutes. They should be lightly golden but still soft.

Step 12: Cool Cookies

Allow baked cookies to cool on the sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Raspberry Almond Snowballs!

How to Serve Raspberry Almond Snowballs

Raspberry Almond Snowballs are delightful treats that can be served in various ways to enhance your dessert experience. Here are some serving suggestions that will complement the flavors of these almond cookies.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Including fresh berries, such as strawberries or blueberries, adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the snowballs.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on the side can elevate the presentation and provide a creamy texture that balances the cookie’s crumbly nature.

Enjoy with a Hot Beverage

• These cookies pair wonderfully with hot drinks like coffee or tea, providing a cozy feel perfect for any gathering.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Arrange Raspberry Almond Snowballs alongside other desserts for an impressive display at parties or family gatherings.

How to Perfect Raspberry Almond Snowballs

To ensure your Raspberry Almond Snowballs are perfectly tender and flavorful, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature butter: Softened butter helps achieve a fluffy consistency when mixed with sugar, leading to lighter cookies.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes prevents spreading during baking and allows for easier shaping.
• Measure ingredients accurately: Proper measurements are key to achieving the right texture; consider using a kitchen scale for precision.
• Experiment with jam flavors: While raspberry is delicious, try other jams like apricot or strawberry for a unique twist on these snowballs.
• Don’t overbake: Watch closely as they bake; they should be lightly golden on the bottom but soft in the center for the best texture.
• Roll in powdered sugar twice: For an extra sweet layer, roll your cookies in powdered sugar once after baking and again once cooled.

Best Side Dishes for Raspberry Almond Snowballs

Serving side dishes alongside your Raspberry Almond Snowballs can create a delightful spread. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a fresh contrast that complements the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter
   Include varieties like brie or goat cheese for a savory balance against the sweet treats.

3. Chocolate Fondue
   Melted chocolate invites guests to dip their snowballs, adding richness and fun to your dessert experience.

4. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn these cookies into an indulgent dessert that everyone will love.

5. Coffee Gelato
   The coffee flavor pairs beautifully with almond and raspberry, creating a sophisticated dessert option.

6. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats echo the almond flavor while adding another layer of texture to your dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Raspberry Almond Snowballs can be delightful, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them tender.
• Using cold butter: Cold butter won’t cream well with sugar. Always use softened butter for a fluffy texture.
• Skipping the cooling step for jam: If the raspberry filling is too hot, it can melt the cookie dough. Allow it to cool completely before filling.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little flour can affect the cookie’s texture. Always use measuring cups for precision.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can result in undercooked or burnt cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Raspberry Almond Snowballs in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Raspberry Almond Snowballs

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers.
• These snowballs can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Raspberry Almond Snowballs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time in 10-15 second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a covered pan on low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different jams for the filling?

Yes! While raspberry jam is delicious, you can experiment with other flavors like strawberry or blueberry.

How do I make my Raspberry Almond Snowballs gluten-free?

To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

You can replace almond extract with additional vanilla extract if necessary, but this will alter the flavor slightly.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that you may need to bake them in batches if your oven can’t accommodate all of them at once.

How should I serve Raspberry Almond Snowballs?

These cookies are perfect as a sweet treat during holidays or special occasions and pair wonderfully with tea or coffee.

Final Thoughts

Raspberry Almond Snowballs are not only visually appealing but also offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Their versatility makes them suitable for various occasions, from holiday gatherings to casual desserts. Feel free to customize by trying different jam fillings or adding nuts for extra crunch. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Raspberry Almond Snowballs

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Raspberry Almond Snowballs are a delightful treat that combines the nutty flavor of almonds with the tart sweetness of raspberry jam, all wrapped in a snowy coat of powdered sugar. These tender cookies feature a hidden fruity center that adds a burst of flavor to every bite. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a cozy evening at home, these cookies are sure to impress. Simple enough for novice bakers yet impressive enough for special occasions, Raspberry Almond Snowballs make for an irresistible addition to any dessert table.

• Total Time: 34 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 3/4 cup raspberry jam (seedless preferred)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In one bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.
4. Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture; stir until just combined.
6. For the filling, heat raspberry jam with cornstarch and lemon juice in a saucepan until thickened; cool completely.
7. Shape dough into balls; create an indent in each and fill with cooled jam before sealing.
8. Roll filled balls in powdered sugar and place on the baking sheet.
9. Bake for 12–14 minutes until lightly golden; cool before serving.

• Author: Stephanie
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Use room temperature butter for optimal mixing. Chill the dough for easier handling and to prevent spread during baking. Experiment with different jams like strawberry or apricot for unique flavors.