Name: Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies that Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened at room temperature); 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar; 1 cup Ground Almonds (fresh ground preferred); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free blend); 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 cup Raspberry Jam/Preserves (seedless preferred); 1 tablespoon Milk/Cream (if needed for dough)

The kitchen was filled with the magical aroma of the holidays as I gathered ingredients for my favorite seasonal treat: Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies. With their buttery texture and soft, chewy bite, these cookies offer a delightful twist on the traditional snowball. What truly sets them apart is the sparkling tang of raspberry filling, which brings everything to life and makes each bite an irresistible surprise. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or gifting to friends and family—especially when you want to showcase your love for homemade delights. Plus, they come together quickly, allowing you to whip up a batch without a fuss. Are you ready to bring a taste of the holidays into your kitchen? Let’s dive into these delectable cookies!

What Makes These Cookies Irresistible?

Sweet indulgence: Each bite offers a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth experience that perfectly balances soft and chewy.
Seasonal delight: With the festive raspberry filling, these cookies are the ultimate holiday treat that evoke warmth and cheer.
Quick preparation: Ready in just a few simple steps, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies in no time.
Versatile options: Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or try different fillings like chocolate ganache for a unique twist!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday party or cozy family gathering, these cookies are sure to impress everyone at the table.
For more delightful cookie ideas, check out my Healthy Carrot Cookies and Chocolate Oat Cookies that bring joy to any occasion!

Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies Ingredients

Dive into the delightful world of flavors with these essential ingredients!

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Ensure it’s softened at room temperature for easy mixing and a creamy texture.
Powdered Sugar – This sweetens the dough and contributes to that snowy coating.
Ground Almonds – Offers a beautiful nutty taste; fresh ground almonds are best for flavor.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the cookies; you can substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.
Salt – A pinch enhances all the delightful flavors.

For the Filling

Raspberry Jam/Preserves – Brings a burst of fruity tartness; using seedless jam ensures a smooth experience.

Optional Moisture Adjuster

Milk/Cream – Add a splash if your dough seems too dry for rolling.

These components are key to creating the perfect Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies that will surely win over every cookie lover!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup. This step will set the stage for perfectly baked Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies that are golden and fluffy.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated, which will help create a rich, buttery base for your cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, ground almonds, and salt until well blended. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, forming the perfect base for shaping your Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Take about 1 tablespoon of the dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Create a small indentation in the center of the dough and fill it with a dollop of raspberry jam or preserves. Carefully seal the edges of the dough around the filling, then re-roll it into a ball. This step ensures a delightful surprise of raspberry goodness in every cookie.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Place the transformed dough balls onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. For even baking, rotate the sheets halfway through the baking time, allowing your Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies to cook uniformly.

Step 6: Cool and Coat
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice for a thick, snowy coating that enhances their festive appearance and adds a sweet finish, making these Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies irresistible!

Expert Tips for Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies

Butter Temperature: Ensure butter is softened but not melted; melted butter can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined; overmixing can create tough cookies instead of the desired soft, chewy texture.
Chill if Necessary: If dough is too sticky to handle, refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to make shaping easier.
Filling Variations: Experiment with different fillings like chocolate or caramel; just be sure not to overfill to prevent bursting during baking.
Double Coating Trick: For an extra-soft texture, roll cookies in powdered sugar twice—once right after cooling and again just before serving.

With these expert tips, your Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies will shine on any baking tray during the holiday season!

What to Serve with Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies

Experience the joy of creating a delightful holiday spread when pairing these enchanting cookies with complementary flavors and textures.

Hot Cocoa: Rich and warm, a cup of hot cocoa pairs perfectly with the sweet, buttery cookies, enhancing their festive spirit.
Coffee: The boldness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies, making it a classic pairing for an afternoon treat.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cool contrast, bringing out the raspberry’s fruity notes in each bite.
Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad adds bright flavors that cut through the cookies’ sweetness, offering a refreshing balance.
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese adds a savory touch, creating a sophisticated contrast with the sweet cookies.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider boosts the holiday aroma and complements the cookies’ nutty flavors, evoking cozy feelings.
Chocolate Truffles: Decadent chocolate truffles can bring an indulgent twist alongside, especially those with a raspberry filling to echo the cookies.
Nut Medley: A mix of roasted nuts offers crunchy texture and complements the almond base, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Elevate your cookie experience with these pairings that harmonize beautifully with the delightful Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delightful homemade treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Simply roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. After chilling, you can bake them straight from the fridge; just add an extra minute or two to the baking time. Additionally, you can fill the cookies with raspberry jam and seal them before refrigerating. For optimal freshness, roll the cooled cookies in powdered sugar just before serving, so they remain perfectly snowy and delectable!

Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these enchanting cookies and customize them to suit your tastes!

Nut Swap: Use pecans or hazelnuts instead of almonds for a unique flavor twist and a different texture. Each nut brings its own personality, giving your cookies a delightful surprise!
Chocolate Filling: For a decadent treat, fill the cookies with chocolate ganache or Nutella instead of raspberry jam. The rich chocolate adds a comforting sweetness that is sure to become a new favorite.
Citrus Zing: Add orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus note. This brightens the flavors and creates a wonderful contrast with the sweet filling.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor profile perfect for the holidays. These spices add depth and make each bite feel extra special!
Cranberry Contrast: Substitute raspberry jam with cranberry sauce for a tart and festive alternative. The vibrant color will make your cookies stand out, and the flavors harmonize beautifully together.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities while keeping the texture delightful and soft. Everyone can enjoy your cookies!
Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use a plant-based milk for a vegan take. You’ll still capture that buttery flavor while catering to those with dietary preferences.

Explore these variations to make your Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies uniquely yours! And if you’re in the mood for more cookie inspiration, don’t forget to check out my Healthy Carrot Cookies and Chocolate Oat Cookies that’ll surely delight everyone!

How to Store and Freeze Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies

Room Temperature: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can store the cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week. Make sure they are well sealed to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen cookies in the fridge or at room temperature. For a warm treat, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of almonds are best for the dough?
I recommend using blanched almonds as they provide a smoother texture and flavor. You can also grind them yourself for extra freshness. If you’re looking for a shortcut, pre-ground almond flour is a fine alternative.

How should I store the Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you need them to last longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week or freezing for up to 2 months—their flavors only improve!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! To freeze your Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies dough, roll it into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. After about 1-2 hours, transfer the frozen dough balls to an airtight container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, don’t worry! Simply cover it and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to firm it up. This will make it much easier to shape the cookies without making a mess.

Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Yes, since this recipe includes ground almonds, be mindful of nut allergies. If you are cooking for someone with allergies, consider substituting the ground almonds with a seed-based alternative, such as sunflower seed flour. This will still give a delightful nutty flavor without the allergens.

How can I customize the filling for these cookies?
Get creative! You can easily switch out the raspberry jam for other fillings like homemade lemon curd, chocolate ganache, or even a dollop of hazelnut spread. Just make sure not to overfill to avoid spills during baking.