Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies: A Delightful Winter Treat
Experience the cozy charm of winter with these Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies. The main keyword, Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies, perfectly encapsulates the essence of this sweet and nutty pastry. With each bite, you will savor the delicate almond flavors mingled with the luscious burst of blueberries.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are a delightful fusion of sweet and nutty that will captivate your taste buds. The almond snowball exterior crumbles beautifully, giving way to a fruity blueberry surprise within. They’re perfect for a winter wonderland theme party or as a festive addition to your holiday cookie platter.
Moreover, Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are easy to make and impressive in presentation. The combination of blueberries and almonds not only provides a unique flavor profile but also makes them a nutritious treat, thanks to the antioxidant-rich berries and protein-packed nuts.
Context/Background
The snowball cookie has roots in various cultures, often associated with holiday celebrations and known by different names worldwide, like Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies. This recipe takes a creative twist by adding a surprise blueberry filling, melding a classic favorite with a refreshing pop of fruit.
The almond base pays homage to the Mediterranean influence in many traditional baked goods, highlighting the region’s love for nuts in desserts.
Recipe Details
Serves: 24 cookies
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup ground almonds
- 1/2 cup blueberry preserves
- Additional powdered sugar for rolling
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and powdered sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla and almond extract.
- Slowly add flour and salt, mixing until well combined. Stir in the ground almonds to form a dough.
- Divide the dough into 24 equal pieces. Flatten each piece and place a small dollop of blueberry preserves in the center. Fold the dough around the preserves to form a ball.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- While warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar and let cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature to mix smoothly with the sugar.
- Don’t overfill with preserves to prevent leaking during baking.
- Use finely ground almonds for a smoother texture.
- Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm for optimum coating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Storage and Leftovers
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze them for up to three months, separating layers with parchment paper.
Final Thoughts
Embark on a delicious journey with these Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies. Their unique combination of flavors and delightful surprise at the center will surely make them a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Try them for your next gathering or enjoy them as a special treat for yourself.
Recipe Notes
- You can substitute blueberry preserves with raspberry or strawberry for a different flavor twist.
- For an even richer taste, toast the ground almonds before adding them to the dough.
- Adjust sugar levels to taste if you prefer a less sweet cookie.