Biting into a Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookie is like a mini celebration in your mouth. The tender, buttery almond cookie cradles a sweet-tart raspberry jam center, all dusted in a snowy blanket of powdered sugar. These little delights aren’t just cookies—they’re tiny pockets of joy that make holiday mornings, family gatherings, or even an ordinary afternoon feel special. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make at home using simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your mixing bowls, and let’s bake some cookies that will vanish faster than you can say “more powdered sugar, please!”
Why Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies Are a Must-Try
The Charm of Almond Cookies
Almond cookies have a soft, buttery texture that melts in your mouth, making them a perfect canvas for a sweet filling. The delicate nutty flavor complements the tartness of raspberry jam, creating a balance that feels indulgent but never overwhelming.
Raspberry Jam: The Sweet-Tart Star
Raspberry jam isn’t just a filler—it’s the heartbeat of these snowball cookies. Its bright flavor cuts through the richness of the almond cookie dough, leaving a refreshing zing in every bite.
Powdered Sugar: The Final Touch
No almond snowball cookie is complete without a dusting of powdered sugar. It not only adds sweetness but also gives these cookies a snow-kissed, elegant look. Kids and adults alike can’t resist the visual charm of these snowy little treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a beginner-friendly, easy-to-follow ingredients table using standard US measurements:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Provides structure for the cookies |
| Almond flour | 1/2 cup | Adds nutty flavor and soft texture |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks), softened | Use high-quality butter for the best flavor |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup, plus extra for dusting | For sweetness and coating |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Enhances flavor |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Balances sweetness |
| Raspberry jam | 1/2 cup | Choose seedless for smoother filling |
| Egg | 1 large | Helps bind the dough |
How to Make Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies
Baking these cookies is easier than you think. With a few simple steps, you’ll end up with buttery, almond-scented cookies hugging a sweet raspberry center. Follow along and feel free to hum your favorite tune while rolling the dough—it makes the process more fun!
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and egg until fully combined. Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt until the dough forms a soft, slightly sticky ball. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—this keeps the cookies tender and prevents spreading.
Step 2: Shape and Fill the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a small dollop (about 1 teaspoon) of raspberry jam in the center and fold the dough around it, rolling into a smooth ball. Place the cookies 2 inches apart on the baking sheet—they expand just a little while baking.
Step 3: Bake and Dust
Bake for 12–15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes, then roll each cookie in powdered sugar while still warm. Once completely cooled, dust again for that snowy effect.
These cookies store beautifully in an airtight container, keeping their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture for several days.
Tips, Variations, and Serving Ideas for Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies
Tips for Perfect Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies
Use Softened Butter
Softened butter is key to achieving tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies. Avoid melted butter, as it can make the dough spread too much. Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly to incorporate air, giving the cookies a light, fluffy texture.
Chill the Dough
Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes is essential. Chilled dough holds its shape better, so your cookies stay round and don’t flatten while baking.
Handle Jam Carefully
When filling the cookies, gently fold the dough around the raspberry jam to prevent it from leaking out.
Powdered Sugar Finish
Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while still warm, and again after they cool completely. This double dusting creates the classic “snowball” look and adds extra sweetness.
Use Parchment or Silicone Mats
Lining baking sheets ensures even baking and prevents sticking, which makes cleanup much easier.
Variations to Try :
Fruit Filling Options
Swap raspberry jam with strawberry, apricot, or cherry preserves for a new flavor twist.
Flavor Enhancements
Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or almond extract to the dough for a cozy, aromatic touch.
Nutty Crunch
Fold in finely chopped toasted almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios for added texture.
Chocolate Drizzle
Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over cooled cookies to elevate presentation and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option
Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make these cookies gluten-free while keeping them soft and tender.
Serving Ideas :
Festive Platter
Arrange cookies on a decorative platter for holidays or special occasions to impress guests.
Gift-Giving
Place cookies in a tin or jar for homemade gifts—they’re sure to delight family and friends.
Beverage Pairings
Serve with hot cocoa, coffee, or herbal tea for a cozy treat anytime.
Party Presentation
Stack the cookies in a tiered arrangement to create a visually appealing dessert centerpiece.
Extra Snowy Effect
Dusting cookies with powdered sugar just before serving makes them look freshly baked and adds that irresistible snowy charm.
Print
Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Soft, buttery almond cookies with a sweet-tart raspberry jam center, coated in powdered sugar for a melt-in-your-mouth, snowy finish. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or cozy afternoons.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar, add vanilla and egg.
- Fold in flours and salt, chill dough 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven 350°F. Scoop dough, fill with jam, roll into balls.
- Bake 12–15 minutes. Cool slightly, roll in powdered sugar, then again after cooling.
Tips: Use softened butter, chill dough, double-dust powdered sugar.
Variations: Try different jams, add nuts, or drizzle chocolate.
Serving Ideas: Perfect with hot cocoa, as gifts, or on dessert platters.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Overmixing the Dough
One of the most common mistakes when making Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies is overmixing the dough. Overworking the flour can make cookies dense and dry. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and the dough comes together.
Using Cold or Melted Butter
Using butter that is too cold can make it hard to cream properly, while melted butter can make the dough too loose, causing cookies to spread too much. Softened butter is ideal for achieving a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Jam Leakage
Another common issue is raspberry jam oozing out during baking. To prevent this, make a small well in the dough, use just a teaspoon of jam, and gently seal the cookie around it. Chilling the filled dough before baking can also help maintain its shape.
Skipping the Double Powdered Sugar Dusting
Not dusting the cookies twice—once warm, once cooled—can result in cookies that lack the classic snowball look and may feel less sweet. A double coating adds that perfect “snowy” charm and extra flavor.
Overbaking
These cookies bake quickly, usually in 12–15 minutes. Overbaking can make them hard rather than soft and tender. Watch the edges—they should be lightly golden while the center remains soft.
By avoiding these mistakes, your Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies will come out perfect every time, soft, buttery, and deliciously filled with raspberry goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies different from regular cookies?
These cookies have a soft, buttery almond base with a sweet-tart raspberry jam center. The double powdered sugar coating gives them a signature “snowball” look and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, making them more festive and flavorful than standard cookies.
Can I use store-bought jam?
Yes! Store-bought raspberry jam works perfectly. For a smoother filling, choose seedless jam, which prevents chunks from breaking the dough or leaking during baking.
How should I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw before serving.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. The cookies will remain tender and soft while keeping the delicious almond flavor.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Overly soft or melted butter, overmixing, or not chilling the dough can cause cookies to spread. Use softened butter, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes, and handle gently to maintain the round snowball shape.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients?
Yes! Try adding a pinch of cinnamon, almond extract, or finely chopped nuts for extra flavor. You can also swap raspberry jam with strawberry, cherry, or apricot preserves for a fruity twist.
Conclusion
Baking Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies is a rewarding experience that combines simple ingredients, cozy techniques, and a touch of elegance. These soft, buttery cookies with a sweet-tart raspberry center are perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just a comforting afternoon treat. With a few careful steps—chilling the dough, gently shaping the cookies, and double-dusting with powdered sugar—you can create a batch that looks as beautiful as it tastes. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore variations with different jams, nuts, or spices, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. With proper storage, they remain soft and flavorful for days, making them ideal for gifting or enjoying with a warm beverage. Take your time, enjoy the process, and watch as these little snowball cookies bring big smiles to anyone who tastes them.