Description

Imagine a delicate and buttery cookie that melts in your mouth, with a burst of tart raspberry filling that dances on your palate. Welcome to the world of Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies, a delightful treat that combines the nuttiness of almonds with the vibrant flavor of raspberries. Originating from traditional European baking, these cookies are often associated with festive occasions and cozy gatherings. What makes them truly special is their snowy appearance, dusted with powdered sugar, reminiscent of freshly fallen snow. The contrasting textures of the soft cookie and the sweet, slightly tangy filling create a symphony of flavors that is simply irresistible. Whether you're preparing them for a holiday celebration, a family gathering, or simply to indulge your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe repertoire. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make, allowing you to experience the joy of baking without the stress.

Ingredients

• For the dough:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• For the filling:
• 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• For topping:
• 1 cup powdered sugar, for dusting

Preparation Method

Begin by preparing the raspberry filling. If you're using fresh raspberries, rinse them gently under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. For frozen raspberries, simply let them thaw for a few minutes. In a medium saucepan, combine the raspberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine, breaking up the raspberries slightly as you go. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it begins to thicken and bubble. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once thickened, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool completely. This filling can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Next, let’s move on to the cookie dough. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is essential, as it creates the airy texture that makes these cookies so delightful. You can use a handheld electric mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment for this task. Once your butter and sugar are well combined, add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should come together and be soft yet manageable. If you find it too crumbly, a teaspoon of milk can be added to help it bind.

Once your dough is ready, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough not only helps it firm up, making it easier to handle, but it also enhances the flavors, allowing the almond notes to develop beautifully. While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

After the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit for a few minutes to soften slightly. This will make it easier to scoop. Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, take small portions of dough and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each ball, as they will spread a little during baking.

Now comes the fun part – filling the cookies! Using your thumb or the back of a small measuring spoon, create a small indentation in the center of each dough ball. Be careful not to go all the way through; you want to create a well for the raspberry filling. Spoon a small amount of the cooled raspberry filling into each indentation. Don’t overfill, as the filling may spill out during baking. Just a teaspoon should suffice.

Once all the cookies are filled, bake them in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. The cookies should remain pale in color; you want to avoid browning the tops too much. As they bake, your kitchen will fill with a heavenly aroma that will make your mouth water in anticipation.

When the cookies are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the cookies to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the cookies generously with powdered sugar, giving them that classic snowball appearance. The powdered sugar adds a delightful sweetness that balances the tartness of the filling.

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. When you're ready to enjoy them, just thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.

Tips and Conclusion

For an exciting twist, consider experimenting with different fruit fillings. Blueberries, strawberries, or even a combination of mixed berries can add a unique flavor profile to your cookies. If you want to make them a bit more indulgent, try adding a touch of almond extract to the dough for an extra almond punch. These cookies also pair beautifully with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elevated dessert experience.



Making Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies is not just about creating a delicious treat; it’s about the joy of baking and sharing something special with loved ones. The process is simple, yet the results are impressive, making them perfect for any occasion. As you savor each bite, you’ll appreciate the harmonious blend of flavors and textures that make these cookies truly delightful. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out our other sweet treats like Lemon Bars or Chocolate Chip Cookies. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family and invite them to explore the delightful world of baking with you! Happy baking!