If you’re searching for a delightful treat that feels like a warm hug in cookie form, then this Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These tender, buttery cookies are softly packed with finely ground almonds and surprise you with a burst of luscious raspberry jam at the center. Finished with a generous dusting of powdered sugar, they look like freshly fallen snow perfect for cozy afternoons or festive gatherings. Each bite offers a perfect balance of nutty flavor, sweet fruitiness, and that melt-in-your-mouth texture that will have you reaching for just one more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of classic ingredients makes this Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies Recipe both simple and rewarding. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the cookie’s delicate texture, subtle almond aroma, and visually appealing snow-dusted finish.
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened: Creates a rich, tender base that’s essential for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar plus 1 cup for rolling: Sweetens the dough and provides the signature snowy coat on the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract: Infuses the cookies with a fragrant nutty note that complements the almonds perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the dough while keeping it tender.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the taste of other ingredients.
- 3/4 cup finely ground almonds or almond flour: Provides a lovely nutty flavor and pleasant texture inside.
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam: The sweet, slightly tart filling that brings these cookies to life.
How to Make Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Mixing Bowls
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless. Having everything prepped sets the stage for smooth baking and ensures the cookies come out just right.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter together with 1/2 cup powdered sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. This step is the secret to achieving that wonderfully tender texture—take your time and don’t rush the creaming process.
Step 3: Add Extracts for Flavor
Mix in the almond extract and vanilla extract. These two extracts meld beautifully, delivering nuanced layers of flavor that make the cookies irresistibly fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground almonds. This ensures the even distribution of the almonds and seasoning, giving consistency to every bite.
Step 5: Form the Dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. If you find the dough becoming too soft to handle, chilling it in the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes will help firm it up without compromising texture.
Step 6: Shape and Fill the Cookies
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Spoon around 1/2 teaspoon of thick raspberry jam into the center. Carefully bring the edges together around the jam, sealing it completely, then gently roll into a smooth ball. This step is where the magic happens—ensuring that beautiful jam surprise stays put during baking.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the cookies about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Bake them for 12 to 15 minutes, watching for the bottoms to turn a light golden while keeping the tops pale. This subtle color distinction means the cookies are perfectly tender and not overbaked.
Step 8: Achieve the Snowy Finish
Let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes after baking. While still slightly warm, gently roll them in powdered sugar, then once fully cooled, roll them again to create that authentic snowball appearance. These two coats of sugar add a delightful sweetness and charming look.
How to Serve Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive touch, consider adding a light dusting of edible glitter or a tiny fresh raspberry on top before serving. A sprig of mint on the side also adds a pop of fresh green that contrasts beautifully with the snowy white sugar.
Side Dishes
These almond snow cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of herbal tea, robust coffee, or a glass of cold milk. Their sweetness and softness complement warm drinks, making them an ideal pairing for a cozy afternoon break or a holiday treat plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Present the cookies stacked in a rustic wooden box lined with parchment for a charming gift idea. You can also arrange them in a decorative tin with layers of wax paper, perfect for sharing with family and friends during celebrations or as thoughtful homemade gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once fully cooled, store your Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies gently in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days, making them perfect for preparing ahead of events or enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to preserve them longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When properly stored, they freeze well for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy the cookies after freezing, simply let them thaw at room temperature. For a freshly baked feel, warm them in a low oven (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 5 minutes. This revives their softness and enhances the almond aroma beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use a different jam filling instead of raspberry?
Absolutely! While raspberry adds a lovely tartness, you can experiment with strawberry, apricot, or even blueberry jam. Just make sure the jam is thick enough to avoid leaking during baking.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky to handle?
Chilling the dough in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes usually firms it up nicely, making it easier to shape and fill without sticking to your hands.
Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Since ground almonds or almond flour are a central ingredient, this recipe is not safe for those with nut allergies. However, you might experiment with substituting finely ground oat flour in place of almonds, but expect a change in flavor and texture.
Do I need to use both almond and vanilla extracts?
Using both extracts really enhances the cookie’s flavor complexity. If you only have one, vanilla is a safe bet, but adding almond extract gives that signature nutty aroma that defines this recipe.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, try substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that can be used cup for cup. Just be mindful some blends may affect the texture slightly, so watch the dough consistency closely.
Final Thoughts
This Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies Recipe is a delightful way to bring warmth and sweetness into any kitchen. Whether you’re baking for a holiday celebration, gifting to friends, or simply satisfying a cozy craving, these cookies promise cheerful moments with every bite. I encourage you to give them a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to treat!
Print
Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies are delicate, buttery treats with a luscious raspberry jam center. Rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy finish, they are perfect for holiday celebrations or anytime you crave a sweet, nutty dessert.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup finely ground almonds or almond flour
Filling and Coating
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and easy cleanup.
- Make the Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with 1/2 cup powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, ensuring a creamy texture for the cookies.
- Add Flavors: Mix in the almond extract and vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the dough with rich, aromatic flavors.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and finely ground almonds to evenly distribute the dry components.
- Create the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms, careful not to overmix.
- Fill the Cookies: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and gently flatten it in your palm. Place about 1/2 teaspoon of raspberry jam in the center. Carefully fold the dough around the jam, rolling it into a smooth ball while sealing the edges completely to prevent jam leakage.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the filled dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow space for spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, checking that the bottoms turn lightly golden while the tops remain pale, indicating they are baked through but tender.
- Cool and Coat: Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes. While still slightly warm, gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat them.
- Final Sugar Coating: Once the cookies are fully cooled, roll them again in powdered sugar to achieve the signature snowy, delicate finish.
Notes
- If the dough becomes too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes before shaping to maintain consistency.
- Use thick raspberry jam to prevent leaking during baking and ensure a perfect filling.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to preserve freshness and flavor.
