Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies: A Bite of Winter Delight

Welcome to the sweet embrace of winter with our delightful Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies. These cookies are a flavorful dance of tart blueberries enveloped in a buttery almond cookie, then dusted with a blanket of confectioner’s sugar, delivering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that you won’t soon forget.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are the perfect fusion of flavors that will captivate your taste buds. The rich almond undertone paired with the sweet and slightly tangy blueberry filling creates an indulgent treat that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful. These cookies are ideal for holiday gatherings, adding a touch of elegance to your dessert table with their snowball appearance and inviting aroma. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or simply savoring a treat with your afternoon tea, this recipe brings out the best of winter flavors and festive cheer.

Context/Background

Snowball cookies, also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies, have a rich history hailing from multiple culinary traditions, each adding its twist to this confectionary favorite. Our version, infused with the tart vibrancy of blueberries, pays homage to the classic snowball concept while creating a unique flavor profile that resonates with both the new generation of bakers and seasoned cookie enthusiasts. The delicate nutty taste of almond flour not only enhances the cookie’s flavor but also provides a delightful crumbly texture.

Recipe Details

Serves: 24 cookies

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup blueberry jam (or fresh blueberries slightly mashed)
• Extra confectioner’s sugar for coating

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and confectioner’s sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract until just combined.
4. Add the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. Take a tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a small dollop of blueberry jam in the center, then fold the dough around the jam to seal it, forming a ball.
6. Place each cookie on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow cooling slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
8. Once cooled, roll each cookie in confectioner’s sugar until completely coated.

Tips for Perfect Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies

• Ensure butter is soft but not melted to achieve the perfect dough consistency.
• Use a teaspoon to measure and manage the blueberry jam filling amount.
• Chill the dough if it’s too soft to handle easily, which can prevent spreading during baking.
• For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the confectioner’s sugar before rolling the cookies.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies with a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with a seasonal mulled wine or cider at festive gatherings.

Storage and Leftovers

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in layers separated by wax paper; allow them to thaw to room temperature before serving.

Final Thoughts

These Blueberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies offer a wonderful balance of sweet and nutty flavors in a charming, snowball-like bite. Perfect for holiday gatherings or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe is a must-try for cookie enthusiasts and anyone looking to explore the delightful combinations of almond and blueberry.

Recipe Notes

• Substitute blueberry jam with raspberry or blackberry jam for a different fruity twist.
• Almond extract can be used in place of vanilla for a more pronounced almond flavor profile.
• If fresh blueberries are used, add a teaspoon of sugar to enhance their natural sweetness.