Get ready to swoon over Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies, a delightful treat that combines buttery almond goodness with a sweet-tart raspberry surprise at the center. Each snowy powdered sugar bite melts on your tongue, revealing a jewel-like burst of jam—a combination that brings cheer to any cookie tray. These are the kind of cookies you lovingly tuck into gift boxes (if you can bear to share!), and they’re sure to leave everyone reaching for just one more.

Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies is how a short list of ingredients transforms into something truly magical. Each component brings its own charm, from the rich butter to the fragrant almond and vanilla, and of course, that dazzling raspberry core.

Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): This creates the cookie’s rich, melt-in-your-mouth base—make sure it’s fully softened for easy mixing and a tender texture.
Powdered sugar (½ cup, plus extra for rolling): Not just for sweetness, but also for that dreamy, snowy finish once baked.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A classic boost for warmth and classic cookie flavor.
Almond extract (1 teaspoon): The secret weapon for irresistibly nutty aroma and flavor—don’t skip it!
All-purpose flour (2 cups): Gives the cookies their structure while letting the nuts shine through.
Finely ground almonds or almond flour (¾ cup): Brings a delicate nuttiness and that perfect crumbly bite.
Salt (¼ teaspoon): Just a touch brings everything into balance—don’t overlook it.
Raspberry jam, seedless preferred (½ cup): The heart of every cookie; pick a tangy, bright jam and chill it to make filling a breeze.

How to Make Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Tools

First things first, set the scene: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps ensure even baking and easy cleanup—plus, nothing sticks!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and ½ cup powdered sugar. Take your time—keep mixing until the blend is pale, fluffy, and dreamy. This is the key to that signature snowball texture.

Step 3: Add the Flavorings

Splash in the vanilla and almond extracts. These two work in tandem for an almond-forward aroma with a mellow vanilla backdrop. Stir well to combine—your kitchen will already start to smell irresistible!

Step 4: Bring Together the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour with the finely ground almonds (or almond flour) and salt. Then, gradually add this mixture to the butter base. Mix just until a soft, cohesive dough forms. Don’t overwork it, as this could make the cookies tough.

Step 5: Shape and Fill the Cookies

Scoop about a tablespoon of dough and flatten it in your palm. Place a chilly ½ teaspoon of raspberry jam in the center (the cold jam makes life so much easier here!). Gently fold the dough around the filling, sealing well so no jam escapes, and roll into a neat ball. Repeat the process with the rest of the dough and jam.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Arrange each ball about an inch apart on your prepared baking tray. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, watching for golden bottoms and set tops—don’t let them brown too much! Leave them to cool for 5 minutes right on the tray before the next step.

Step 7: The Double Snowy Roll

While the cookies are still warm, give them their first gentle tumble in powdered sugar. Once they’ve fully cooled, roll each one again for a beautiful, even snowy finish. This double coating makes Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies truly irresistible.

How to Serve Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies

Garnishes

Dress up your cookies with a final drifting of powdered sugar right before serving, or scatter some finely chopped toasted almonds over the platter for an extra nutty flourish. A tiny sprinkling of freeze-dried raspberries on the serving dish can add a pop of color and hint at what’s inside.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a mug of hot tea, strong coffee, or even mulled wine during the holidays. For dessert platters, serve them alongside chocolate-dipped shortbread, citrusy lemon bars, or a bowl of fresh berries for contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Nestle Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies in festive paper liners, pile them high on a pedestal plate, or stack them in clear gift bags tied with a ribbon. For parties, arrange them in concentric circles with a sparkling edible glitter dusting to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft, snowy, and delicious for up to 5 days, making them perfect for ahead-of-the-holiday prep or casual weeknight treats.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies easily! Once baked and cooled, arrange them in a single layer, freeze until solid, then layer between wax paper in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep their deliciousness for up to two months—just remember to add a fresh dusting of powdered sugar after thawing, if needed.

Reheating

While not strictly necessary, you can bring frozen cookies back to “just-baked” bliss by letting them come to room temperature on the counter. If you love warm, gooey centers, pop a few in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 2-3 minutes; just watch carefully so the sugar coating doesn’t melt.

FAQs

Can I use a different jam or fruit filling?

Absolutely! While raspberry offers a vibrant flavor and color, feel free to experiment with apricot, strawberry, or even a tangy cherry preserves for your own twist on Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies.

What if I only have whole almonds?

No problem—simply toast the almonds lightly, let them cool, and grind them in a food processor to a fine meal before measuring. Just don’t over-process, or you’ll get almond butter. This method adds wonderful homemade depth to your cookies.

How do I keep the jam from leaking out?

Keep the jam well-chilled before filling and make sure to seal the dough completely around the filling. If any jam does peek out during baking, don’t fret—the cookies will still taste fabulous and look charmingly rustic.

Are these Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies gluten-free?

As written, the recipe calls for all-purpose flour and is not gluten-free. However, you can try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to see if the texture suits your needs—just check that all other ingredients (including almond flour) are certified gluten-free.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to two days ahead and refrigerate it, tightly wrapped. Let it soften slightly at room temperature before shaping and filling, and your cookies will bake up just as lovely.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a touch of surprise (and plenty of smiles) to your cookie jar, Raspberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are an absolute must-try. They’re as fun to make as they are to share. Don’t be surprised if these become your new go-to treat for every occasion!