Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies: A Delightful Winter Treat
Indulge in the sweet and nutty flavors of Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies, a delightful winter treat that combines the tangy taste of blueberries with the rich, creamy texture of almonds. These cookies are not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor, making them the perfect addition to your holiday cookie tray or any special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies stand out for their unique combination of flavors. The sweetness of the confectioners’ sugar coating contrasts beautifully with the tangy blueberry filling, creating a burst of flavor with every bite. The almond base adds a nutty undertone, giving each cookie a satisfying, rich texture that melts in your mouth.
This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy winter weekends, or any time you want to impress your guests with something special. They are easy to make, visually striking, and bring a festive elegance to any dessert table.
Context/Background
The origins of snowball cookies can be traced back to several different cultures, including Russian teacakes and Mexican wedding cookies, all known for their round shape and powdered sugar coating. The addition of a blueberry filling gives these cookies a modern twist, making them a unique and delicious fusion of traditional and contemporary flavors.
Recipe Details
Serves: 24 cookies
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup finely chopped almonds
- 3/4 cup blueberry preserves
- Additional powdered sugar for coating
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, blending until just combined. Stir in the chopped almonds.
- Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Make an indent in the center of each ball, fill with a small amount of blueberry preserves, and carefully seal the dough around the filling.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Allow to cool slightly before rolling each cookie in powdered sugar to coat.
Tips for Perfect Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies
- Ensure the butter is softened to make creaming easier and to achieve the perfect dough consistency.
- Use high-quality blueberry preserves for the best flavor and consistency.
- Handle the dough gently to prevent breaking the seal around the filling.
- Roll cookies in powdered sugar while still warm but not hot to ensure it adheres properly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a truly relaxing treat. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert combo.
Storage and Leftovers
Store Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator. These cookies can also be frozen for up to three months; just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a get-together or simply want to enjoy a cozy day at home, these Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are a must-try. Their unique flavors and delightful texture make them a standout in any cookie collection, ensuring you’ll return to this recipe time and again.
Recipe Notes
- For a different twist, try using raspberry preserves in place of blueberry for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Feel free to experiment with adding a teaspoon of almond extract for an extra nutty flavor.