Description of this recipe Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic snowball cookie, also known as Mexican Wedding Cookies or Russian Tea Cakes. These melt-in-your-mouth treats combine the buttery, nutty flavor of almonds with a burst of sweet and tangy raspberry preserves hidden inside. The cookies are then generously coated in powdered sugar, giving them a snowy appearance and a delicate sweetness that perfectly complements the rich, fruity filling. Perfect for holiday baking, special occasions, or simply as an elegant afternoon treat, these cookies are sure to impress with their sophisticated flavor and beautiful presentation.
Why you will love this recipe
You will absolutely adore Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies for several reasons. First and foremost, their texture is divine. They are incredibly tender and crumbly, practically dissolving in your mouth with each bite. The combination of almond flour and all-purpose flour creates a delicate crumb that is both rich and satisfying. The subtle almond flavor is enhanced by a touch of almond extract, adding a layer of nutty complexity that pairs beautifully with the buttery base.
The surprise burst of raspberry preserves in the center is a game-changer. The sweet and slightly tart flavor of the raspberry cuts through the richness of the cookie, providing a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. And let’s not forget the snowy coating of powdered sugar, which adds a touch of sweetness and elegance, making these cookies as beautiful as they are delicious.
These cookies are also incredibly versatile. They can be made ahead of time and stored, making them perfect for holiday baking or when you need a sweet treat on hand. They are easy to customize, too. You can experiment with different types of preserves or jams to create your own unique flavor combinations. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will elevate any dessert table.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup almond flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup raspberry preserves or jam
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Parchment paper ensures that the bottoms of the cookies bake evenly without browning too quickly.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture. Using an electric mixer (either a stand mixer or a hand mixer) will make this process much easier. Creaming the butter and sugar incorporates air into the mixture, which helps to create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie. Make sure the butter is properly softened but not melted; it should be soft enough to easily blend with the sugar.
Step 3: Add Extracts Add the vanilla extract and almond extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix until well combined. These extracts add a wonderful depth of flavor to the cookies. The vanilla enhances the overall sweetness, while the almond extract provides a complementary nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the almond flour. Be sure to measure the extracts accurately to avoid overpowering the cookies.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt. Whisking ensures that the ingredients are evenly distributed. The almond flour not only adds flavor but also contributes to the cookies’ delicate texture. The salt balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in tough cookies. Mix until the dry ingredients are incorporated, but stop as soon as the dough comes together.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies Scoop a tablespoon of dough, roll it into a ball, and press your thumb to create a small indentation in the center. This indentation will hold the raspberry preserves. Make sure the balls are uniform in size so that they bake evenly.
Step 7: Fill with Raspberry Preserves Fill each indentation with a small dollop of raspberry preserves or jam. Use a small spoon or a piping bag to fill the indentations neatly. Avoid overfilling, as the preserves can bubble over during baking.
Step 8: Seal and Reshape Gently seal the filling inside by reshaping the dough into a smooth ball. Ensure that the preserves are completely enclosed to prevent them from leaking out during baking. Roll the filled cookies gently in your hands to smooth out any cracks or seams.
Step 9: Bake Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just golden. The cookies should be lightly browned but still soft to the touch.
Step 10: Roll in Powdered Sugar Let the cookies cool slightly for a few minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while they are still warm. The warmth helps the powdered sugar adhere to the cookies. Coat them generously for that signature snowy appearance.
Step 11: Cool Completely Transfer the powdered-sugar-coated cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely. As the cookies cool, the powdered sugar will set, creating a beautiful, even coating.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: Medium
- Flavor Complexity: High
- Visual Appeal: High
- Likelihood of Success: High
Serving Suggestions:
Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- Holiday Dessert Platter: Include these cookies on a holiday dessert platter alongside other festive treats like gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark, and fudge.
- Afternoon Tea: Serve them with a pot of your favorite tea for a sophisticated afternoon snack.
- Gift Giving: Package them in a decorative box or tin as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
- Coffee Pairing: Enjoy them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso for a delightful morning or afternoon treat.
- Dessert Bar: Add them to a dessert bar at parties or gatherings for a touch of elegance.
Tips:
- Use Softened Butter: Ensure the butter is properly softened before creaming it with the sugar. This is crucial for achieving the right texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough becomes too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before shaping the cookies.
- Even Baking: Make sure the cookies are uniform in size so that they bake evenly.
- Generous Coating: Don’t be shy with the powdered sugar. Roll the cookies generously while they are still warm to ensure a good coating.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try using different types of preserves or jams to create your own unique flavor combinations. Apricot, blueberry, or cherry preserves would all be delicious.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 12-15 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per cookie, approximate) Calories: 120 Protein: 2g Sodium: 20mg
Conclusion
Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies are a delightful and elegant treat that is perfect for any occasion. Their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, combined with the nutty almond flavor and the burst of sweet raspberry preserves, makes them irresistible. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special event, or simply want to enjoy a delicious homemade cookie, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions ensures that even novice bakers can achieve perfect results. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create these enchanting cookies that will bring joy to everyone who tastes them. Enjoy the process of baking and the pleasure of sharing these delectable Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies with your loved ones.
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of flour instead of almond flour?
A1: While almond flour contributes to the cookies’ unique texture and flavor, you can substitute it with an equal amount of all-purpose flour if needed. However, keep in mind that the cookies may be slightly denser and less flavorful. For a closer substitute, consider using finely ground oat flour or another nut flour like hazelnut or walnut flour.
Q2: Can I use a different type of jam or preserves?
A2: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of jams or preserves to create your own unique flavor combinations. Apricot, blueberry, cherry, or even fig preserves would all be delicious alternatives to raspberry. Just make sure the preserves are relatively thick and not too runny, to prevent them from leaking out during baking.
Q3: How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?
A3: To prevent the cookies from spreading too much, make sure your butter is properly softened but not melted. Also, avoid overmixing the dough, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in flatter cookies. Chilling the dough in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before shaping the cookies can also help to firm up the butter and prevent excessive spreading.
Q4: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A4: Yes, you can definitely make these cookies ahead of time. The dough can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to two months. Just make sure to thaw them completely before serving.
Q5: Why are my cookies dry and crumbly?
A5: If your cookies are dry and crumbly, it could be due to a few reasons. First, make sure you are not overbaking them. The cookies should be lightly browned but still soft to the touch. Overbaking can dry them out. Second, avoid adding too much flour to the dough. Measure the flour accurately and mix until just combined. Finally, ensure that your oven temperature is accurate, as an oven that is too hot can cause the cookies to dry out quickly.
