Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe

The Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the tender crumbly texture of almond snowballs with a luscious burst of blueberry jam in the center. These cookies are the perfect balance of buttery richness and fruity sweetness, coated in a delicate layer of powdered sugar that melts on your tongue. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a cozy dessert, these cookies offer a charming twist on a classic favorite that will quickly become your go-to for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are simple yet each plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect texture and flavor. From the creamy butter that creates a tender dough to the bright blueberry jam that surprises your palate, every element counts in this recipe.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature: Provides the rich, creamy base for the cookie dough that melts in your mouth.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and tenderizes the dough while coating the cookies for that signature snowy look.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic depth enhancing the buttery and nutty flavors.
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Builds the cookie’s structure for a delicate but sturdy bite.
• 1 cup finely ground almonds (or almond flour): Gives a subtle nuttiness and a tender crumb, enriching the texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies all other flavors.
• 1/2 cup blueberry jam or preserves: The star filling—the juicy, tart-sweet surprise inside each snowball.
• Additional powdered sugar for rolling: Creates the iconic snowball look and provides a soft, sugary finish.

How to Make Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Begin by beating the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color—this usually takes 2 to 3 minutes. This step is essential since it incorporates air, setting the foundation for a tender cookie that practically melts in your mouth.

Step 2: Add Vanilla Extract

Mix in the vanilla extract thoroughly. The vanilla lifts the buttery richness with a lovely fragrance, making sure every bite is infused with warmth and sweetness.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, finely ground almonds, and salt together. This ensures even distribution and prevents clumping, which helps create that perfectly tender yet structured dough texture.

Step 4: Blend Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the creamed butter mixture and gently fold until just combined. Avoid overmixing here, as that can develop gluten and make the cookies tough rather than tender and crumbly.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover your dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This resting period firms up the butter, making the dough easier to handle and ensuring the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Step 6: Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step prevents sticking and ensures even baking, giving your cookies a beautiful golden edge.

Step 7: Shape and Fill the Cookies

Roll the dough into 1 tablespoon-sized balls. Press an indentation into the center of each ball and spoon about 1 teaspoon of blueberry jam inside. Carefully enclose the jam by pinching the edges and reshaping into smooth spheres. This filling technique locks in the juicy sweetness that makes Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies unforgettable.

Step 8: Bake Until Lightly Golden

Place the filled dough balls about 2 inches apart on your baking sheet to allow room for gentle spreading. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges just start to turn a lovely light golden color. This subtle browning hints at perfectly baked cookies inside.

Step 9: Cool and Roll in Powdered Sugar

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes after removing them from the oven, then roll each one in powdered sugar while they’re still warm. This coating clings better and gives the cookies their classic snowball appearance.

Step 10: Final Dusting

Once completely cooled, dust the Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies with another layer of powdered sugar. This extra dusting not only looks stunning but adds a delicate sweetness to every bite.

How to Serve Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies

Garnishes

Enhance these charming cookies by dusting with a touch of edible glitter or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds for added crunch and visual appeal. A few fresh blueberries on the serving platter also complement the filling wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Serve your Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies alongside a cup of hot tea, freshly brewed coffee, or even a glass of cold milk. The creamy drinks balance the sweetness and make every bite feel like a cozy hug.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging these cookies in a circular pattern on a tiered dessert stand or inside decorative boxes as thoughtful gifts. Layer them between parchment sheets to keep them intact and create a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and preserves their tender, crumbly texture alongside the gooey blueberry filling.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies for longer storage by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first to freeze solid, then transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will stay delicious for up to 3 months and thaw beautifully without losing their essence.

Reheating

For the best taste after freezing, let your cookies thaw at room temperature and warm them in a low oven (around 300°F / 150°C) for 5 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked warmth and softens the filling for maximum enjoyment.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of jam?

Absolutely! While blueberry jam perfectly complements the almond flavor, you can experiment with raspberry, strawberry, or even apricot preserves for a unique twist on these snowball cookies.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This version uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten, but you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free without sacrificing texture or taste.

How do I prevent the jam from leaking out during baking?

Make sure to fully seal the dough around the jam by pinching the edges tightly and smoothing the surface before baking. Chilling the dough helps maintain the shape, too.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and keep it chilled in the refrigerator until you are ready to shape and bake the cookies.

What makes these Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies different from regular snowballs?

The addition of finely ground almonds in the dough adds a wonderful nutty flavor and tender crumb, while the luscious blueberry jam center introduces a delightful fruity surprise, elevating these cookies beyond the usual.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a cookie that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, the Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are a must-try. Their perfect harmony of tender, buttery dough and vibrant blueberry filling makes them irresistible for every dessert lover. Don’t hesitate to whip up a batch and share the joy—they’re guaranteed to brighten any day!

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