Welcome to a delightful recipe that brings a touch of elegance and warmth to any table—Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowballs! These little cookies are melt-in-your-mouth treats filled with a sweet surprise, perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. If you’re a fan of almond-flavored desserts and the sweet-tart kick of strawberry jam, this recipe is bound to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Let’s jump right in to create these irresistible Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies that are as beautiful as they are delicious!
Introduction
Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowballs are inspired by the classic almond snowball cookies but with a flavorful twist. Snowball cookies, also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies, are traditionally buttery almond or nut-based cookies rolled in powdered sugar. In this version, we add a sweet strawberry jam filling, transforming them into a special treat perfect for strawberry and almond lovers alike. These cookies bring the best of both worlds, balancing the nutty almond flavor with the vibrant burst of strawberries. Their petite, powdered-sugar-dusted appearance also makes them an attractive addition to dessert trays and gift boxes.
Ingredients for Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies
To make these delightful Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies, you’ll need a few simple ingredients, most of which you likely have on hand. Here’s the list, along with any optional substitutions you might like to consider.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam
- Substitution tip: If you have a nut allergy, substitute almond flour with additional all-purpose flour and add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for a similar flavor boost. For dairy-free diets, replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
How to Make Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies – Step by Step
This Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies recipe is simple to follow and yields perfect results every time. Follow these steps to make a batch of irresistible cookies!
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Add the almond extract and mix well, ensuring that the almond flavor is fully incorporated.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt. Almond flour adds a nutty depth to the cookies and makes them tender.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
- Form and Fill the Dough Balls
- Scoop a tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm.
- Place about 1/2 teaspoon of strawberry jam in the center and carefully fold the dough around the jam to form a ball, sealing the edges to avoid any leaks during baking.
- Bake the Cookies
- Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
- Dust and Cool
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar for that classic snowball look.
- Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Helpful Tips for Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies
Creating these delicate Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies can be even more enjoyable with these helpful tips:
- Sealing the Jam: Make sure to seal the dough tightly around the jam to prevent any oozing during baking.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft, refrigerate it for 15 minutes before forming balls to make it easier to handle.
- Using Fresh Strawberry Jam: Opt for a high-quality strawberry jam to get the best flavor. Homemade or fresh jam without added preservatives often provides the richest taste.
Cooking Tips for the Best Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies
Here are a few simple but effective Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies cooking techniques to ensure every cookie comes out perfect:
- Achieving the Right Texture: Creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy is essential for the soft, crumbly texture that makes snowballs irresistible.
- Preventing Over-Baking: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be light golden, not browned. This keeps them tender and buttery.
- Powdered Sugar Dusting: Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still slightly warm to achieve an even coating.
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies
Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies pair well with a variety of beverages and make a stunning addition to any dessert spread. Serve these cookies with:
- Warm Beverages: Enjoy with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
- Holiday Platters: Add these cookies to your holiday cookie trays alongside gingerbread cookies, shortbread, and chocolate truffles for a festive display.
- Gift Giving: Pack these cookies in decorative tins or cellophane bags to give as gifts during the holiday season.
Nutritional Information
Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are a lovely treat in moderation. Here’s a brief look at their nutritional benefits and values.
These cookies offer a good source of energy from the butter and flour, while almond flour adds some protein and fiber. With only a touch of powdered sugar and strawberry jam, each cookie is sweet but not overly so, making them a great light dessert option.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Fats: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 1g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 4g
Storage and Leftovers
To keep your Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies fresh, follow these simple storage tips:
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Bring them to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze these cookies in a sealed freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I substitute almond flour?
Yes, if you’re allergic to nuts, use additional all-purpose flour. Add vanilla extract for a flavor boost.
2. What other fillings work in this recipe?
Raspberry or apricot jam makes a great substitute for strawberry jam.
3. Why do my cookies spread too much?
Make sure the butter isn’t too soft, and chill the dough if it’s warm.
4. How do I prevent powdered sugar from melting?
Roll cookies in powdered sugar once they’ve cooled a bit, and dust again before serving.
Related Recipes for Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookie Lovers
For those who love this cookie recipe, try these related recipes:
Conclusion
These Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are truly a delight! Perfect for the holidays or any gathering, they combine a tender, buttery almond cookie with a sweet strawberry filling for a treat that’s hard to resist. Try out this recipe, and let us know how it turns out in the comments! Don’t forget to share any creative variations you come up with. Enjoy these delightful strawberry-filled snowballs!
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Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies – Delightful Treats
Description
Welcome, cookie lovers! Today, we’re diving into the world of Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies – a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat that combines the warmth of almonds with a sweet surprise of strawberry filling. These bite-sized cookies are perfect for any occasion, be it a cozy afternoon tea, a festive holiday gathering, or just a well-deserved treat at home. Not only are these cookies deliciously buttery and nutty, but they’re also easy to make, making them a must-try for any dessert enthusiast!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam
Substitutions & Tips:
- For a dairy-free option, substitute with vegan butter.
- Almond extract enhances the almond flavor; however, vanilla extract can be used for a milder taste.
- If strawberry jam is unavailable, feel free to use raspberry or apricot jam for a unique twist.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This temperature ensures that the cookies bake evenly, giving them a perfect golden hue.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 3: Add Almond Extract
Once your butter and sugar are well blended, add 1 tsp of almond extract. This will infuse the dough with a rich almond flavor, complementing the almond flour used later.
Step 4: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt. The almond flour adds a distinct nutty taste, making these cookies extra special.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Step 6: Shape the Dough and Add Strawberry Filling
Scoop a tablespoon of dough, flatten it slightly, and place about 1/2 teaspoon of strawberry jam in the center. Carefully fold the dough around the jam, forming a ball and sealing the edges well.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should still look pale on top.
Step 8: Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. While they’re still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar, giving them the snowball effect.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy your delightful Strawberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Keep the Dough Chilled: If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the dough for 10-15 minutes before shaping to prevent it from sticking.
- Seal Well: Make sure to seal the dough around the jam fully to avoid leaks during baking.
- Adjust the Sugar: For an extra layer of sweetness, add an additional sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving.
