If you are searching for a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat that beautifully balances nutty richness and fruity sweetness, look no further than this Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies Recipe. These delicate cookies are tender and buttery with a luscious raspberry surprise nestled right inside, dusted generously with powdered sugar to resemble a fresh snowfall. They are wonderfully elegant yet surprisingly simple to make, making them a perfect choice for holiday gatherings, tea parties, or just a special treat to brighten any day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients, each playing a key role in creating a perfectly textured and wonderfully flavored cookie. From the creamy softness of the butter to the natural crunch of almond flour and the vibrant burst of raspberry preserves, every element is essential.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a tender, rich base and keeps the cookie moist.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling): Adds sweetness and gives the cookies their signature snowy coating.
- 1 tsp almond extract: Infuses the dough with a fragrant, nutty aroma that complements the raspberry perfectly.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure to the cookies while keeping them tender.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors by balancing sweetness and elevating the almond notes.
- 1/2 cup almond flour (or finely ground almonds): Adds a subtle nuttiness and a soft texture that distinguishes these cookies.
- 1/3 cup raspberry preserves: The fruity heart of every cookie, giving a tangy and sweet surprise with each bite.
How to Make Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by creaming the softened butter together with 1/2 cup powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step is crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Then, stir in the almond extract, which will add a lovely fragrant hint throughout the batch. Next, gradually add the all-purpose flour, salt, and almond flour, mixing just until the dough comes together into a soft, slightly sticky ball.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and pop the dough into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick, allowing for an easy transfer to a cooling rack later.
Step 4: Shape and Fill the Cookies
Take about one tablespoon of dough and gently flatten it in the palm of your hand. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of raspberry preserves into the center. Fold the dough over the preserves and carefully roll it into a neat ball, making sure the filling is completely sealed inside. Place the cookie balls spaced at least one inch apart on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes until they are set but not browned. The goal is to achieve that delicate, tender crumb that almost dissolves on your tongue. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Coat with Powdered Sugar
Once the cookies have cooled, generously roll each one in powdered sugar, creating that iconic snowy outer layer that gives these treats their name and whimsical charm. The contrast between the white sugar and the rosy raspberry surprise inside is just magical.
How to Serve Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a little finely chopped toasted almonds over the powdered sugar-coated cookies just before serving. A small dusting of edible glitter or a tiny mint leaf on the side can elevate presentation for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of warm tea or coffee, making them an ideal companion for afternoon breaks. They also complement richer desserts like chocolate mousse beautifully by providing a delicate textural contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies on a pretty tiered dessert stand for celebrations or gift them in decorative tins layered with parchment paper for a heartfelt homemade gift. You can also serve them alongside small bowls of fresh raspberries and almonds to echo their flavors visually and deliciously.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature where they will stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days. The powdered sugar coating might soften slightly over time but the taste remains just as delightful.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies Recipe going longer, freeze them uncoated in a single layer using parchment paper between layers. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature and then roll in powdered sugar just before serving for that fresh snow effect.
Reheating
These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you prefer them warm, pop them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the texture gummy and the powdered sugar melt away.
FAQs
Can I substitute almond flour with another nut flour?
Absolutely! Walnut or hazelnut flours can add interesting flavor variations, but keep in mind they may alter the cookie’s texture slightly. Stick to finely ground nuts for the best results.
Is raspberry preserves the only filling option?
Not at all! You can experiment with other preserves like strawberry, apricot, or even lemon curd for unique tastes. Just be careful to use a filling that isn’t too runny.
Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free baking blend, you can easily make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets without sacrificing texture or flavor.
Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling helps firm up the fats so the cookies hold their shape while baking. It also allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful and tender cookie.
What if the filling leaks out during baking?
Ensure you seal the dough around the raspberry preserves tightly, pinching the edges well. If the dough feels too sticky, chilling it a bit longer can help with easier handling and better sealing.
Final Thoughts
This Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies Recipe is truly a gem among cookies—delightfully tender, lightly nutty, and bursting with refreshing raspberry sweetness in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies will surely bring smiles and warm compliments. Give this recipe a try and create a lovely tradition filled with sweet moments and snowy delights!
Print
Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies, a tender and buttery treat bursting with tart raspberry preserves and the rich flavor of almonds. Perfectly soft and dusted with powdered sugar, these cookies offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will impress at any dessert table.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup almond flour (or finely ground almonds)
Filling
- 1/3 cup raspberry preserves
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the almond extract. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, salt, and almond flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm it up, which makes shaping the cookies easier and helps maintain their shape during baking.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Shape and Fill the Cookies: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it in your hand. Place 1/2 teaspoon of raspberry preserves in the center, then carefully fold the dough around the filling and roll into a smooth ball. Place the filled cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are set but not browned, preserving their delicate texture. Allow them to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar: Once the cookies are fully cooled, roll each one generously in powdered sugar to create a classic snow cookie finish that adds sweetness and an elegant look.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading and to achieve the perfect texture.
- Use fresh raspberry preserves for a brighter fruit flavor.
- Be gentle when folding the dough over the filling to avoid the preserves leaking out during baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a nut-free version, substitute almond flour with additional all-purpose flour and omit almond extract, though the flavor will change.
