These jam-filled almond snowball cookies are a delightful twist on a holiday classic. With their buttery, almond-infused dough, powdered sugar coating, and a sweet jam center, they make a perfect treat for any occasion. They’re light, crumbly, and melt-in-your-mouth good, offering a combination of textures and flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for holidays or special occasions.
• The almond and jam pairing creates an irresistible flavor.
• Easy-to-make dough with minimal ingredients.
• Customizable with your favorite jams.
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Unsalted butter
• Powdered sugar
• Almond extract
• Vanilla extract
• Salt
• Almonds, finely ground
• Jam of your choice (raspberry, strawberry, or apricot work best)

Directions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the almond extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
2. Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour and ground almonds to the mixture, blending until a soft dough forms. Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
3. Shape the cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Take small portions of dough and roll into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Create an indentation in the center of each ball using your thumb.
4. Fill with jam: Spoon a small amount of jam into the indentation of each cookie. Be careful not to overfill to prevent spilling during baking.
5. Bake: Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely.
6. Coat in powdered sugar: Once the cookies are cooled, roll them in powdered sugar to give them their classic snowball appearance.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies (depending on size).
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Substitute ground almonds with finely ground oats for a nut-free alternative.
• Flavorful Jam Swaps: Try using fig jam, lemon curd, or even Nutella for a unique twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
• Extra Crunch: Roll the dough balls in finely chopped nuts before baking for added texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked cookies (without the powdered sugar coating) for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature, then roll them in powdered sugar before serving.
• Reheating: These cookies don’t need reheating, but if you prefer a warm version, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough up to 2 days in advance. Keep it refrigerated until ready to use.

2. What type of jam works best for this recipe?

Raspberry, strawberry, or apricot jam work beautifully, but any favorite jam can be used.

3. Can I skip the powdered sugar coating?

Yes, but the powdered sugar adds sweetness and the iconic snowball appearance.

4. How do I prevent the jam from spilling out during baking?

Avoid overfilling the indentations and make sure the dough is well-chilled before baking.

5. Can I use almond flour instead of ground almonds?

Yes, almond flour works perfectly as a substitute for ground almonds.

6. Are these cookies suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Freeze them without the powdered sugar coating for up to 3 months.

7. What can I use instead of almond extract?

You can use vanilla extract or a hint of lemon extract for a different flavor profile.

8. Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan powdered sugar.

9. Why is my dough too crumbly?

This may happen if there’s not enough butter or if the dough hasn’t been mixed thoroughly. Add a splash of milk if needed.

10. Do I need to toast the almonds before grinding them?

Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor, but it’s optional for this recipe.

Conclusion

These jam-filled almond snowball cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table. With their crumbly, buttery texture and sweet jam filling, they’re sure to be a hit with friends and family. Whether you’re baking them for the holidays or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is easy to follow and endlessly customizable. Give it a try, and enjoy every bite!

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• Author: Mariem
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 12–14 minutes
• Yield: V
• Category: 24 cookies
• Method: Dessert
• Cuisine: Baking

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Description

Indulge in these delicate and buttery Jam-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies, a delightful holiday treat with a surprise jam-filled center, rolled in powdered sugar for a perfect wintery finish. Easy to make and utterly delicious, these cookies are a must-have for any festive occasion.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/3 cup jam (raspberry, strawberry, or your favorite flavor)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

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Instructions

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/3 cup jam (raspberry, strawberry, or your favorite flavor)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract.
   • Gradually add the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
2. Chill the Dough:
   • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until firm.
3. Shape the Cookies:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
   • Flatten each ball slightly and place a small dollop (about 1/4 tsp) of jam in the center. Gently enclose the jam by folding the dough over and rolling it back into a smooth ball.
4. Bake:
   • Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
   • Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Avoid over-baking.
5. Cool and Coat:
   • Allow the cookies to cool slightly before rolling them in powdered sugar. Roll again once completely cooled for a snowy finish.

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Notes

• For best results, use a thick jam to prevent it from leaking during baking.
• These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Optional: Add a sprinkle of finely chopped almonds to the dough for extra texture.