Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies

Introduction

When I first baked these Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was immediately thrilled with the outcome. The cookies are light, buttery, and melt in your mouth, with a surprising burst of raspberry jam hidden in the center. The almond flavor adds a delightful depth, while the powdered sugar dusting gives them a snowy, holiday-perfect finish. My family absolutely loved them, and they disappeared in no time! These cookies are an absolute hit whether you’re preparing them for a holiday gathering, a sweet treat for the kids, or just to enjoy with a cup of tea.

The combination of rich, buttery dough and fruity jam creates the perfect balance, and it’s no surprise that these cookies quickly became a staple in our household. If you enjoy baking and are looking for a festive cookie to share with family and friends, these Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies are guaranteed to be a favorite.

Ingredients

To make these scrumptious Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) 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
• 1/2 cup raspberry jam
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

These ingredients come together to create a smooth dough that’s easy to work with and bakes into a delicate, tender cookie with a sweet, tangy raspberry filling. The almond extract is a perfect match for the fruity jam, creating a delicious flavor profile that is both familiar and unique.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies:

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until creamy and smooth.
• Add the vanilla extract and almond extract, and mix well to incorporate.
• Gradually add the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
• Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help it firm up.

1. Shape and Fill the Cookies:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Take a small portion of dough (about 1 tablespoon) and flatten it into a circle using your hands.
• Place a small spoonful of raspberry jam in the center of the dough circle.
• Gently fold the dough over the jam and roll it into a ball, ensuring the jam is fully enclosed.

1. Bake the Cookies:

• Place the filled cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

1. Finish with Powdered Sugar:

• Once the cookies are completely cooled, dust them generously with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 2 cookies
• Calories: 160
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 45mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 11g
• Protein: 2g

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour (includes chilling and baking time)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes

How to Serve

These Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

• As a Holiday Treat: These cookies make the perfect addition to any holiday cookie tray or Christmas gathering.
• With Tea or Coffee: Their delicate, buttery texture pairs perfectly with a hot beverage, such as tea or coffee.
• For Special Occasions: Pack these cookies into decorative boxes or tins as a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
• As an Afternoon Snack: Enjoy a couple of cookies with a glass of milk or a hot drink for a mid-day pick-me-up.

Additional Tips

1. Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps to firm it up, making it easier to handle and ensuring that the cookies hold their shape while baking.
2. Use Good Quality Jam: Choose a high-quality raspberry jam for the best flavor. Homemade or all-natural jams work particularly well.
3. Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake. You want the edges to be lightly golden, but not overdone.
4. Dust with Powdered Sugar Right Before Serving: To keep the snow-like appearance fresh, dust the cookies with powdered sugar just before serving.
5. Double the Batch: If you’re planning on giving these as gifts or serving a crowd, consider doubling the recipe to make a larger batch.

Recipe Variations

• Other Jam Flavors: While raspberry jam is the traditional choice, you can use other jams such as strawberry, apricot, or blackberry for different flavor combinations.
• Chocolate Chips: Add a few mini chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey twist that complements the fruity filling.
• Add Nuts: For a bit of crunch, you can sprinkle chopped almonds or other nuts over the cookie dough before baking.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the almond flour is also gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Cookie Trays: These cookies look beautiful on a holiday or dessert tray, alongside other cookies such as shortbread or sugar cookies.
• Gift Boxes: Pack these cookies in small boxes or cellophane bags for a sweet, homemade gift during the holiday season.
• With Ice Cream: Serve these cookies alongside vanilla or raspberry sorbet for a sweet dessert duo.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Make sure the powdered sugar doesn’t get rubbed off in the process.
• Freezing: To freeze, place the unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze for 2 hours, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, you can bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: You can also freeze the baked cookies, layering them with parchment paper in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these cookies in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before shaping and baking.
2. What can I use instead of almond flour?
   If you don’t have almond flour, you can use an equal amount of finely ground hazelnut flour or even all-purpose flour.
3. How do I store leftover cookies?
   Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
4. Can I use store-bought raspberry jam?
   Yes, store-bought raspberry jam works perfectly in this recipe.
5. Can I freeze these cookies?
   Yes, both the dough and the baked cookies can be frozen. For unbaked dough, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a container.
6. Can I use a different jam?
   Yes, feel free to substitute raspberry jam with any other fruit jam, like strawberry or apricot.
7. Why do I need to chill the dough?
   Chilling the dough helps it firm up and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
8. Can I add other ingredients to the dough?
   Yes, you can mix in mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit for a unique variation.
9. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
   Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the almond flour is gluten-free.
10. Can I make these cookies smaller?
    Yes, you can make smaller cookie balls, but make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines rich, buttery dough with a tangy raspberry filling. With their snowy powdered sugar coating, they make a beautiful and delicious addition to any cookie tray. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends. By following the simple steps and tips provided, you can easily create these melt-in-your-mouth cookies and enjoy them for days to come. Happy baking!

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