Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies are an irresistible combination of a buttery almond cookie and a sweet, tart raspberry center, dusted with powdered sugar that looks like freshly fallen snow. These delicate cookies are perfect for winter celebrations, holiday gatherings, or even as a gift to share with loved ones. The subtle nuttiness from the almond flour combined with the vibrant pop of raspberry jam makes every bite of these cookies melt in your mouth. They’re festive, easy to make, and add a touch of elegance to any cookie platter. The raspberry filling provides a burst of fruity flavor that perfectly complements the rich almond base. Whether you’re enjoying these with a hot cup of tea by the fire or sharing them with friends and family, these Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies are sure to be a hit. Let’s get baking!
2. Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling and Topping:
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam
- 1 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
3. Directions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and almond extract and mix until combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix—the dough should be soft but manageable.
- Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This will make the dough easier to handle and enhance the flavors.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Shape the Cookies: Once the dough is chilled, take about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. Using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon, make a small indentation in the center of each ball to form a well for the raspberry filling.
- Fill with Raspberry Jam: Fill each indentation with a small amount of raspberry jam, being careful not to overfill (about 1/2 teaspoon is enough).
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once the cookies are completely cooled, generously dust them with powdered sugar to give them that beautiful “snowy” appearance.
4. How to Prepare
To prepare these delicious Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies, start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy, then add the vanilla and almond extracts for that rich flavor. After mixing in the dry ingredients, chill the dough to make it easier to handle. Once chilled, shape the dough into balls, make a small indentation, and fill with raspberry jam. After baking, the cookies are dusted with powdered sugar to create the classic “snowy” look that makes these cookies so festive. The result is a beautiful, nutty cookie with a vibrant raspberry center, perfect for any holiday celebration.
5. Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1 hour
- Baking Time: 12-15 minutes per batch
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe makes 24-28 cookies, depending on the size of your dough balls.
7. FAQs
Q1: Can I use a different type of jam?
A: Yes! You can substitute raspberry jam with other types, like strawberry, apricot, or even blackberry. Choose your favorite or experiment with different flavors.
Q2: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make the dough up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just let it soften slightly at room temperature before rolling it into balls.
Q3: How do I store these cookies?
A: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also refrigerate them to extend their shelf life.
Q4: Can I freeze these cookies?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies without the powdered sugar dusting. Once ready to serve, thaw them and dust with powdered sugar to finish.
Q5: Why do my cookies spread too much?
A: Make sure the dough is properly chilled before baking. If the butter is too soft, the cookies may spread more than desired. Also, measure your flour correctly to prevent spreading.
8. Conclusion
Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies are the perfect blend of delicate flavors, buttery texture, and festive presentation. These cookies are an excellent choice for the holidays, combining the warmth of almond with the vibrant tang of raspberry. The powdered sugar dusting adds not only sweetness but also a beautiful, snowy touch that makes these cookies look elegant and inviting. They’re great to share at holiday parties, as part of a cookie exchange, or simply to enjoy with a hot drink on a chilly evening. The simple steps make them accessible for bakers of all levels, while the finished product is as beautiful as it is delicious. So, gather your ingredients, get cozy, and bake up a batch of these delightful Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies. Enjoy the magic of these festive little treats!