Sweet Raspberry Snowballs Delicious Holiday Cookies

© Original Recipe By Serena’s Flavor Lab ©

🍓✨Sweet Raspberry Snowballs: Delicious Holiday Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth!🎄

1. Introduction

Imagine biting into a buttery, tender cookie coated with a delicate layer of powdered sugar, bursting with the sweet, tangy flavor of fresh raspberries. That’s exactly what you get with these irresistible raspberry snowballs. These fruit desserts are a festive treat perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and vibrant berry taste make them a standout among holiday cookies. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, these snowballs are simple to make and guaranteed to impress your family and friends.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 30 minutes — Perfect for last-minute holiday baking.
• One-bowl recipe — Less cleanup, more enjoying!
• Versatile — Can be made gluten-free or dairy-free with simple substitutions.
• Beautiful presentation — Vibrant red raspberry coating makes these cookies as festive as they are tasty.
• Deliciously crumbly and sweet — A true holiday fruit dessert favorite.

3. Ingredient Notes

To achieve the best flavor and texture, using high-quality ingredients is essential. Fresh raspberries lend a bright, authentic flavor, but frozen berries work perfectly if fresh aren’t available. Opt for unsalted butter to control saltiness or choose quality almond flour for a slightly nutty twist. Powdered sugar should be superfine for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth coating. For a more vibrant color and flavor, consider using organic raspberries and unsweetened natural vanilla extract.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

Creating these holiday cookies will be a breeze with the right tools. I recommend the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer for quick, even baking—perfect for baking cookies efficiently. A sturdy T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set makes handling batter and rolling dough simple without worry of sticking. For mixing and preparation, a versatile KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer saves time and energy. These tools will streamline your holiday baking process and elevate your cookie game.

5. How to Make Sweet Raspberry Snowballs

Step 1: Prepare the Raspberry Filling

Start by pulsing fresh or thawed frozen raspberries with a few tablespoons of sugar and a splash of vanilla extract. This creates a vibrant, fruity filling. Strain the mixture to remove seeds for a smooth, glossy filling that will hide inside the tender cookie dough. The scent of the raspberries cooking will fill your kitchen with a sweet, berry aroma.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter with powdered sugar until creamy and pale. Gradually add almond flour and a pinch of salt, mixing until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft yet firm enough to handle. Chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to work with.

Step 3: Assemble the Snowballs

Take small portions of dough and flatten them slightly in your palm. Place a small amount of raspberry filling in the center, then carefully mold the dough around the filling, sealing it completely. Roll into smooth balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. As you work, you’ll be greeted by the soft, sweet scent of vanilla and berries.

Step 4: Bake and Coat

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies will still be soft, so avoid overbaking. Let them cool slightly, then roll gently in powdered sugar while still warm. The snowball effect will be perfect if the sugar adheres smoothly, creating a snowy, powdered exterior that’s irresistibly sweet.

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Ensure the dough is chilled — Chilling prevents spreading and makes handling easier.
• Use high-quality raspberries — They offer the best flavor and vibrant color.
• Don’t overbake — Cookies are meant to be tender; overbaking can make them crumbly or tough.
• Dust with powdered sugar while warm — This helps the sugar adhere better and creates a perfect snow-like finish.
• Work quickly — To prevent the dough from softening too much, handle it swiftly and keep it chilled.

7. Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour for almond flour or gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour.
• Lactose-Free: Use lactose-free butter or coconut oil in place of butter.
• Vegan: Substitute vegan butter and ensure your powdered sugar is vegan-friendly.
• Extra Flavors: Add a dash of lemon zest or almond extract to enhance the flavor profile.

8. Storage & Reheating

Store these raspberry snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, and let them come to room temperature before serving for best texture. You can also freeze them for up to 1 month—just thaw and dust with powdered sugar before serving for a fresh, snowy look.

9. FAQ

Can I make raspberry snowballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookies and freeze them uncoated. Add the powdered sugar just before serving to keep them fresh and snowy.

Can I use frozen raspberries in this recipe?

Yes, just thaw and drain excess moisture. Using fresh berries gives a brighter flavor, but frozen works well in a pinch.

Are these cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?

Definitely. Almond flour or gluten-free flour are excellent substitutes for traditional flour, making this a versatile holiday cookie.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Yes! Folding in chopped nuts or white chocolate chips can add delightful texture and flavor variations.

10. Conclusion

These raspberry snowballs are a perfect holiday treat—bursting with fruity flavor, coated in snowy powdered sugar, and with a tender, crumbly texture. They’re easy to make, visually stunning, and sure to become a festive tradition. Give them a try this season and bring a touch of berry magic to your holiday cookie platter!

Print