Introduction
Delight your taste buds with these charming Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies! These little treats are the perfect combination of buttery, nutty goodness and a luscious raspberry surprise. With a delicate dusting of powdered sugar on top, they’re not just delicious but also beautifully festive, making them an ideal addition to any dessert table or holiday gathering. Imagine biting into a soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookie only to discover a sweet burst of raspberry jam in the center—pure bliss!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar for dusting
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, ready for those adorable little cookies.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a warm buttery aroma.
- Add in the almond extract, mixing until fully incorporated, allowing that delightful almond scent to shine through.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, finely chopped almonds, and salt, ensuring all the dry ingredients mingle nicely.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. You should have a rich, creamy dough that’s just begging to be shaped.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and gently flatten it in your palm. Don’t worry about perfection; these cookies are all about charm!
- Place a small dollop of raspberry jam in the center of the dough, then lovingly wrap it around the jam and roll it into a ball.
- Arrange the cookie balls on your prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow for some delightful spread.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden, filling your home with a heavenly aroma.
- Once they’re baked, let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Finally, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving, giving them that lovely snow-kissed appearance.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nuttier taste. If raspberry isn’t your jam (pun intended!), feel free to experiment with other flavors like apricot or strawberry. Just remember to adjust the sweetness according to the jam you choose!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases the technique of creaming butter and sugar, which is essential for creating light and airy cookies. It’s important to make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best results. Also, when forming the cookies, don’t worry if they are not perfectly round; the homemade charm is part of their appeal.
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookies? Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just ensure they are well-wrapped or placed in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
How do I store the cookies? Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life.
Conclusion
These Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. With their delightful flavors and charming appearance, they are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying with a cup of tea. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and experience the joy of homemade cookies that not only taste amazing but also bring a touch of warmth to your home.