Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies: A Delicate Winter Wonderland Treat

These elegant Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies are a delightful blend of delicate almond flavor and sweet raspberry filling, dusted with a magical layer of powdered sugar that resembles a soft winter snowfall. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies promise to melt in your mouth and warm your heart.

Ingredients

US Measurements

  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (120g) raspberry jam
  • 1 cup (120g) sliced almonds
  • Additional powdered sugar for coating

Metric Measurements

  • 227g unsalted butter, softened
  • 60g powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
  • 5ml almond extract
  • 240g all-purpose flour
  • 1g salt
  • 120g raspberry jam
  • 120g sliced almonds
  • Additional powdered sugar for coating

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • Cream butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy
    • Mix in almond extract
    • Gradually add flour and salt
    • Mix until a soft dough forms
    • Chill for 30 minutes
  2. Shape Cookies:
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
    • Roll dough into 1-inch balls
    • Create a small indent in the center of each cookie
    • Fill indentation with a small amount of raspberry jam
  3. Bake:
    • Place cookies on parchment-lined baking sheet
    • Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden
    • Cool completely on wire rack
  4. Finish:
    • Roll cooled cookies in powdered sugar
    • Sprinkle with sliced almonds
    • Dust with additional powdered sugar

Nutritional Information

Per Cookie

  • Calories: 120
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 5g

Preparation Time: 20 minutes Chilling Time: 30 minutes Baking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes Servings: 24 cookies

Cooking Tips and Tricks

  • Use cold butter for flakier cookies
  • Chill dough to prevent spreading
  • Use a small spoon or measuring spoon to create cookie indents
  • Don’t overfill with jam to prevent overflow
  • Allow cookies to cool completely before coating

Variations and Substitutions

  • Flavor Alternatives:
    • Replace raspberry jam with apricot or strawberry
    • Add lemon zest to dough
    • Use different nut variations
  • Dietary Modifications:
    • Use gluten-free flour
    • Substitute butter with plant-based alternative
    • Use sugar-free jam
  • Decorative Options:
    • Drizzle with white chocolate
    • Use different nut toppings
    • Add food-safe edible glitter

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make these cookies ahead of time? A: Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Q2: How do I prevent jam from leaking? A: Don’t overfill, and ensure a small border around the jam.

Q3: Can I freeze these cookies? A: Freeze uncoated cookies for up to 3 months.

Q4: Why did my cookies spread? A: Ensure butter is cold and dough is chilled.

Q5: Can I use a different extract? A: Vanilla works, but almond provides unique flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Store in layered parchment paper
  • Keep at room temperature
  • Avoid direct sunlight
  • Consume within 5 days
  • Refresh powdered sugar coating before serving

Enjoy these delightful Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies – a sweet journey into winter’s delicate delights!