Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies (Jam Stuffed Snowballs)

Melt-in-your-mouth Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies (Jam Stuffed Snowballs) are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of almonds with the sweetness of raspberry jam. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends. Their surprising jam center makes them a unique addition to cookie trays, bringing joy to gatherings and celebrations alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of almond and raspberry creates a lovely taste that will leave you craving more.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these cookies.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies make an enticing addition to potlucks, holiday parties, or just a cozy family gathering.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out the raspberry jam for your favorite fruit preserves or jellies!
• Fun Presentation: The powdered sugar coating adds a beautiful finishing touch that looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your baking adventure, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Food processor
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easier and ensures a smooth dough consistency.
• Food processor: Efficiently grinds almonds for the perfect texture in your cookies.
• Baking sheets: Provides even heat distribution for consistent baking results.

Ingredients

Melt-in-your-mouth snowball cookies with a sweet, surprising jam center! And everyone will love that raspberry almond flavor combo. These will be the star of the show on a cookie tray!

• 2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour (scoop and level to measure)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (76g) sliced almonds
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, (softened)
• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 6 Tbsp (115g) seedless raspberry jam
• 1 1/2 cups (170g) powdered sugar

How to Make Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies (Jam Stuffed Snowballs)

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt; set aside. Add sliced almonds to a food processor. Process until they are finely ground into tiny bits; set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until well combined and smooth. Mix in almond extract.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add in the flour mixture while mixing gently until just combined. Fold in ground almonds using a spatula as needed to incorporate everything well.

Step 4: Shape Dough Balls

Scoop out dough using half a tablespoon at a time. Shape each scoop into a ball, then create a deep indentation in the center using your finger or thumb. Fill this indentation with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of seedless raspberry jam.

Step 5: Seal Cookie Dough Balls

Take another half tablespoon of cookie dough, shape it into a ball, make an indentation, then place it over the jam-filled dough ball. Gently press down to seal the edges together.

Step 6: Chill Dough Balls

Transfer shaped dough balls onto a plate with enough space between them to chill evenly. Place them in the refrigerator for about one hour and thirty minutes. During the last fifteen minutes of chilling, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Once chilled, transfer cookies onto baking sheets spaced about two inches apart. Bake in preheated oven until set, about 11 – 13 minutes. Watch closely to avoid over-baking which can cause cracks or leaking jam.

Step 8: Coat with Powdered Sugar

After removing from oven, let cookies cool for several minutes. While still warm, roll them in remaining powdered sugar for a light coating.

Step 9: Cool Completely

Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra touch, roll them once more in powdered sugar for a thicker coating before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies filled with sweet raspberry jam!

How to Serve Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies (Jam Stuffed Snowballs)

These delightful Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their unique flavor profile and charming appearance make them a treat everyone will enjoy.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. The nutty almond flavor complements the drink perfectly.

At a Cookie Exchange

• Bring these cookies to a cookie exchange! Their beautiful presentation and delicious jam center will impress fellow bakers and cookie lovers alike.

As Party Favors

• Package these snowball cookies in decorative boxes or bags as party favors. Guests will appreciate the thoughtful gesture and delicious treat.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies on a dessert platter alongside other sweets. Their snowy white coating adds visual appeal and variety to the display.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside fresh raspberries or strawberries to enhance their fruity flavor. This pairing adds a refreshing touch to the dessert experience.

How to Perfect Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies (Jam Stuffed Snowballs)

Perfecting these snowball cookies is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results!

• Chill the Dough: Proper chilling helps prevent spreading during baking, ensuring your cookies maintain their shape.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the scoop-and-level method for accurate flour measurement, which prevents dense cookies.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake; removing them just before they are fully set yields softer results.
• Use Quality Jam: Opt for high-quality seedless raspberry jam for the best flavor. A good jam makes all the difference!
• Roll in Powdered Sugar Twice: Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while warm and again once cooled gives them that perfect coating.

Best Side Dishes for Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies (Jam Stuffed Snowballs)

These snowball cookies pair well with various side dishes, enhancing your dessert table. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balance to the rich flavors of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter
   Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which pair nicely with sweet desserts without overpowering them.

3. Chocolate Fondue
   Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip fruits or pieces of cookie for an extra indulgent treat.

4. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic accompaniment that complements the almond and raspberry flavors beautifully.

5. Nut Mix
   A selection of lightly salted nuts adds crunchiness, creating an enjoyable contrast to the soft texture of the cookies.

6. Herbal Tea Blend
   Offer a soothing herbal tea blend such as chamomile or mint, which pairs well with sweet treats for a calming finish to any meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies (Jam Stuffed Snowballs) can be a delightful experience, but here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Ignoring the chilling time: Chilling the dough is crucial for the right texture. Don’t skip this step; it helps prevent cookies from spreading too much while baking.
• Overloading on jam: Adding too much jam can cause it to ooze out during baking. Stick to the recommended 1/2 teaspoon for each cookie to maintain shape and integrity.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Measuring flour inaccurately can lead to dense cookies. Always scoop and level your flour for the best results.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated properly. Baking at a lower temperature may result in undercooked cookies, while too high can cause them to crack.
• Failing to roll in powdered sugar twice: Rolling in powdered sugar after baking gives a lovely finish. Don’t forget to do it again after they cool for an extra sweet touch!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies (Jam Stuffed Snowballs)

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will last up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies (Jam Stuffed Snowballs)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place cookie in a covered skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies (Jam Stuffed Snowballs)?

Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies (Jam Stuffed Snowballs) are soft, buttery cookies with a surprise jam center that combines sweet raspberry flavor with almond undertones.

Can I use other flavors of jam?

Yes! You can substitute raspberry jam with strawberry, apricot, or any of your favorite fruit jams for different flavor profiles.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies (Jam Stuffed Snowballs) gluten-free, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips or additional nuts into the dough for extra texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies (Jam Stuffed Snowballs) are not only delicious but also versatile. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and fruity surprise make them perfect for any occasion. Customize them with different jams or add-ins to make them your own!