Raspberry Snowballs are delightful little treats that bring a burst of flavor with each bite. These sweet, buttery cookies are filled with luscious raspberry jam, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them at a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just as a sweet treat at home, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of nutty flavors and sweet raspberry filling creates a cozy comfort that’s hard to resist!
What You’ll Need for Raspberry Snowballs
To make these irresistible Raspberry Snowballs, gather the following ingredients:
- 250 g gluten-free all-purpose flour or regular flour
- 75 g raw pecans, walnuts, or almonds
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 225 g unsalted butter, softened
- 60 g powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 80 – 120 g raspberry jam
- 120 g powdered sugar (for rolling)
How to Make Raspberry Snowballs
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Chop the Nuts: Start by transferring the nuts of your choice into a food processor. Pulse them gently until they are finely chopped but not powdered.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour, chopped nuts, and sea salt. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Add the vanilla and almond extracts and mix until combined.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until fully incorporated and a dough forms.
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Shape the Cookies: Take about 1/2 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Use your thumb to create an indentation in the center and fill it with raspberry jam. Cover with another small ball of dough and gently press to seal.
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Chill the Dough: Place the filled cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for about 1.5 hours to firm up.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
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Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies for 11-13 minutes, or until they are just set and lightly golden on the edges.
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Cool and Roll in Sugar: Let them cool slightly before rolling the still-warm cookies in powdered sugar. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Raspberry Snowballs
These charming cookies can be served in various delightful ways! Place them on a decorative platter to showcase their beauty. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee and make excellent gifts when placed in a cute box or jar. Feel free to dust them with extra powdered sugar just before serving for that extra snowy effect!
Expert Tips for Raspberry Snowballs
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Nut Variety: Experiment with different types of nuts for varied flavors. Walnuts add a robust taste, while pecans offer a sweeter note.
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Jam Choices: While raspberry jam is delicious, try using strawberry or apricot jam for a different twist. You can even mix jams for a surprise filling!
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Storage: Keep your Raspberry Snowballs in an airtight container. They can last for up to a week, but let’s be honest… they’ll probably be gone much sooner!
Raspberry Snowballs FAQs
Can I use frozen raspberries instead of jam?
While frozen raspberries are tasty, they won’t provide the same gooey filling as jam. Stick with raspberry jam for the best results.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
What can I substitute for butter?
You can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute for a dairy-free option, keeping in mind that the texture may differ slightly.
Get ready to enjoy these delightful Raspberry Snowballs that are perfect for any occasion. With their nutty crust and sweet raspberry center, they are bound to become a favorite! Happy baking!