Name: Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies for Festive Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups almond flour (certified gluten-free if needed); 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dough); 1/2 cup raspberry jam (can substitute with other jams); 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

As I rolled the dough into tiny balls, a delightful dusting of powdered sugar created a snowy landscape right on my kitchen counter. These Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are the kind of festive treats that make any gathering feel special, with the surprise of sweet raspberry jam tucked inside each buttery bite. Not only are these cookies a hit at holiday parties, but they also offer a gluten-free option for those looking to indulge without the guilt. With quick prep and minimal ingredients, you’ll have a delicious batch ready to impress in no time. Are you ready to bring a touch of joy and sweetness to your kitchen?

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Melting Goodness: Each bite delivers a delicious surprise, with a soft almond base that melts in your mouth, perfectly complemented by the burst of fruity raspberry jam.
Festive Appeal: Their snowy exterior makes these cookies visually stunning, perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy tea party.
Gluten-Free Option: Easily swap in certified gluten-free almond flour to cater to your gluten-sensitive friends without sacrificing taste.
Quick Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have these delightful cookies ready in no time, like when you whip up my Chewy Brown Cookies.
Versatile Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different fillings like chocolate ganache or Cinnamon Roll Cookies for endless delicious variations!

Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Almond Flour – Provides a nutty flavor and tender texture; substitute with certified gluten-free almond flour for a gluten-free version.
Butter – Adds richness and helps create a melt-in-your-mouth texture; use unsalted butter for better control of salt levels.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and coats the cookies, giving them a snowy appearance; can substitute with a sugar-free powdered alternative.

For the Filling

Raspberry Jam – Acts as the fruity filling, delivering sweetness and tartness; consider using different jams like strawberry or apricot for a fun twist.

For the Coating

Powdered Sugar – Dust over cookies for that lovely snowy finish, enhancing both appearance and sweetness.

Enjoy crafting these delightful Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies that are sure to light up your celebrations!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This will create a perfect base for your Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies, ensuring easy removal once they are baked.

Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine almond flour, softened unsalted butter, and powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer or a wooden spoon to blend the ingredients until creamy and well incorporated. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, reflecting the rich texture expected from these delightful cookies.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
If your recipe calls for any additional dry ingredients, such as vanilla extract or salt, incorporate them into the dough at this stage. Mix thoroughly until everything is combined, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Your dough for the Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies should be well-blended and ready for shaping.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Using your hands, scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Once shaped, create a small well in the center of each dough ball with your finger or the back of a spoon. This well will hold the luscious raspberry jam filling later, giving your cookies that delightful surprise.

Step 5: Fill
Spoon a small amount of raspberry jam into the well of each cookie dough ball. Be generous but make sure not to overfill, as the jam might spill out while baking. This sweet filling is what will elevate your Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies into an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Step 6: Bake
Place the filled cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10-15 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. The cookies are ready when the bottoms are lightly golden while still pale on top, indicating they are perfectly baked.

Step 7: Sugar Coating
After removing the cookies from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once they are cool to the touch, roll each cookie generously in powdered sugar. This final touch makes your Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies look festive and enhances their sweet flavor, creating a snow-dusted finish.

Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies Variations

Customize your Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free almond flour to make these cookies accessible for everyone at your gathering. They’ll still be just as delightful without any compromise.
Jam Alternatives: Swap raspberry jam for strawberry, apricot, or even mixed berry jam for different fruity surprises. Each choice offers a unique flavor that transforms the cookies beautifully.
Chocolate Lovers: Replace the jam with chocolate ganache or Nutella for a rich, decadent twist that will satisfy chocolate cravings. Imagine the oozing goodness with every bite!
Nut Butter Centers: Use creamy almond butter or peanut butter in the center for a nutty flavor explosion that pairs wonderfully with the almond cookie. This variation adds a delightful richness.
Add Spices: Stir in a dash of cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for an aromatic kick that complements the sweet filling. Spices can elevate the festive feel of these cookies!
Coconut Pleasure: Incorporate shredded coconut into the dough or sprinkle on top after rolling in powdered sugar for extra texture and flavor. It adds a tropical flair, making every bite a joyful experience.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine to cater to those who are avoiding dairy products while still enjoying a delicious treat.
Mini Cookie Sandwiches: Scale down the dough balls for bite-sized cookies, sandwiching raspberry jam and rolling the edges in crushed nuts for a delightful crunchy contrast. These can become your new favorite finger food!

There are endless possibilities, so don’t hesitate to explore your kitchen and make these cookies truly your own—after all, it’s about celebrating and sharing joy, just like with my tasty Cinnamon Roll Cookies or delightful Pebble Sugar Cookies! Enjoy every scrumptious variation!

Expert Tips for Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for ingredients, especially almond flour, to avoid any discrepancies that can affect the cookie’s texture.

• Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to shape the cookies without sticking.

• Don’t Overfill: When adding the raspberry jam, use just enough to fill the well without overflowing. Overfilling can cause the jam to leak out while baking, making a mess.

• Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies. They should be lightly golden on the bottom and soft on top; overbaking can lead to dry cookies.

• Perfect Coating: Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm for the best snowball effect; this will ensure the sugar adheres beautifully.

• Gluten-Free Tip: For a gluten-free version of these delightful raspberry filled almond snowball cookies, ensure that your almond flour is certified gluten-free.

How to Store and Freeze Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Fridge: If you’d like to extend their freshness, store in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before enjoying!

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be kept for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them at room temperature for the best experience. Your Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies will stay delightful!

What to Serve with Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies

Create a delightful holiday spread that complements the sweetness of these irresistible cookies!

Festive Tea Blend: A warm cup of spiced tea enhances the rich flavors of the cookies and adds a cozy touch.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream feels luxurious against the crumbly cookies, creating a delightful contrast.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip the cookies in warm chocolate for an indulgent treat that adds a rich depth to the fruity raspberry center.
Fruit Platter: Fresh berries or citrus add a refreshing bite, brightening up the dessert table while echoing the vibrant raspberry flavor.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream offers a cloud-like finish that pairs beautifully with these melt-in-your-mouth cookies.
Red Wine: A glass of fruity red wine provides a sophisticated pairing, enhancing the sweetness of the raspberry filling while offering a warm glow.
Coffee or Espresso: The rich bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a perfect afternoon delight.
Chocolate Ganache Dip: Provide a rich ganache on the side for a lavish dip, taking your cookies to the next level of indulgence.
Gingerbread Cookies: These provide a delightful contrast in flavors while keeping the festive spirit alive at your gathering.
Coconut Macaroons: Their chewy texture and subtle sweetness can harmonize with the snowball cookies, creating a match made in dessert heaven!

Make Ahead Options

These Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making your holiday baking a breeze! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by shaping the balls and creating the wells for the jam, then refrigerate them. Once you’re ready to bake, simply fill each well with raspberry jam and continue with the baking instructions. For even more flexibility, you can freeze the unbaked cookies for up to 3 months. Just be sure to place parchment paper between layers to maintain quality. When you’re ready to enjoy these treats, bake them from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll always have a delicious batch on hand, ready to impress at a moment’s notice!

Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my almond flour is fresh?
Absolutely! Check for a sweet, nutty aroma. If it smells off or has dark spots, it’s best to discard it. Always store it in a cool, dry place for optimal freshness.

How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep your Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies soft, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, store them in the fridge where they’ll stay good for about a week.

Can I freeze the cookies?
Very! To freeze, first let your cookies cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. After that, transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies spread excessively, it could be due to your dough being too warm or insufficiently chilled. Make sure to chill the dough for about 15-20 minutes before shaping the cookies. Also, be sure not to skip the drying agent if added!

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, these cookies may not be suitable for individuals with nut allergies since they contain almond flour. However, you can explore gluten-free baking flour options for a nut-free twist, but the flavor and texture will differ.

Can I substitute the raspberry jam with other fillings?
Absolutely! Feel free to switch out raspberry jam for strawberry, apricot JAM, or even chocolate ganache. Each filling creates a new flavor experience, keeping your Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies exciting and delightful!