These Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are buttery shortbread-style cookies with a surprise raspberry jam center and a snowy dusting of powdered sugar. The almond flavor adds a delicate nuttiness that perfectly balances the tart-sweet jam inside. These festive treats are perfect for Christmas cookie trays, tea parties, or gifting during the holidays.
🧾 Ingredients (Makes about 24 cookies)
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (75 g) finely ground almonds or almond flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup raspberry jam (preferably seedless)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and sugar:
In a large bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and almond extract. - Mix the dry ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, almond flour, and salt. Gradually mix into the butter mixture until a soft dough forms. - Shape and fill the cookies:
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it into a disc. Place ½ teaspoon of jam in the center, then wrap the dough around the jam and roll into a ball, sealing the jam inside. - Bake:
Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Cool for 10 minutes. - Dust with sugar:
Once cooled slightly, roll or dust cookies with powdered sugar for that classic “snowball” finish.
💡 Tips
- Use cold jam so it’s easier to enclose inside the dough.
- Make sure to seal the dough completely around the jam to avoid leaks during baking.
- Let cookies cool before dusting to avoid the sugar melting.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.
🔁 Variations & Substitutions
- Swap raspberry jam for apricot, strawberry, or cherry preserves.
- Use hazelnut or pecan flour in place of almond flour for a different nutty twist.
- Add orange zest to the dough for a citrusy boost.
- Dip the bottoms in melted white chocolate for an extra festive touch.
❓ FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These cookies stay fresh for up to 1 week in an airtight container and freeze well for up to 2 months.
Can I make these without nuts?
You can omit the almond flour and increase the all-purpose flour by ¼ cup, but the texture will be slightly different.
Why is my jam leaking out?
Be sure to completely enclose the jam and chill the dough if it’s too soft.
Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze before baking (jam-filled dough balls) or after baking (fully cooled). Thaw and re-roll in powdered sugar if needed.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with hot tea, mulled wine, or holiday coffee drinks
- Add to a Christmas cookie platter or dessert board
- Wrap in festive boxes for homemade edible gifts
- Pair with almond or vanilla ice cream for a cozy dessert
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