Sweet Raspberry Snowballs Easy Holiday Cookie Recipe

© Original Recipe By Whisk & Wander ©

🎉✨ Sweet Raspberry Snowballs: The Perfect Holiday Cookie Delight 🍪🌲

1. Introduction

When the holiday season arrives, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling your home. Among the countless festive desserts, Sweet Raspberry Snowballs stand out as a delightful combination of buttery sweetness and tart raspberry bursts. This holiday cookie recipe is easy to make, visually stunning, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these snowballs will quickly become a favorite in your Christmas treat collection.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare — perfect for busy holiday schedules.
• Chewy, tender cookies coated in snowy powdered sugar.
• Spectacular presentation, resembling mini snowballs for a festive vibe.
• Delicious raspberry flavor adds a fresh, tangy twist to traditional holiday cookies.
• Minimal ingredients and fuss—ideal for a cozy weekend baking session.

3. Ingredient Notes

The beauty of this easy cookie recipe lies in the quality of its ingredients. Use unsalted butter for a rich, tender crumb and adjust the sweetness with powdered sugar. For the raspberry filling or flavor, opt for fresh or frozen high-quality raspberries—they offer the best flavor and vibrant color. To keep the snowballs light and crumbly, choose a good all-purpose flour. For rolling, powdered sugar is essential for that iconic snowy finish and extra sweetness. Consider using organic or locally sourced ingredients for a more vibrant taste and supporting sustainable farming practices.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To achieve perfect Sweet Raspberry Snowballs, having the right tools makes all the difference. A T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures easy baking and cleanup, while a Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer is versatile for other holiday recipes. For precise mixing, the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange can help streamline prep. These tools are designed to make your baking experience enjoyable and efficient, resulting in professional-looking cookies every time.

5. How to Make Sweet Raspberry Snowballs

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

In a large bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy—this should take about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should be pale and smooth, promising a tender cookie. Add in a splash of vanilla extract and an egg, mixing well. Gradually fold in the flour and a pinch of salt, stirring until just combined. The dough should be soft but manageable. Chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes; this helps the flavors meld and makes shaping easier.

Step 2: Shaping the Snowballs

Once chilled, scoop out small portions and roll them into smooth balls, roughly the size of a walnut. You want them uniform for even baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The cookies will spread slightly but should retain a rounded shape.

Step 3: Baking & Cooling

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just golden. The cookies will appear slightly soft but will firm up as they cool. Let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Adding the Raspberry Filling and Coating

Gently flatten a cooled cookie, place a small spoonful of raspberry jam or preserves in the center, then carefully mold it back into a ball. Roll each snowball generously in powdered sugar, ensuring a snowy, festive exterior. The tart raspberry filling paired with the buttery base creates a harmonious taste experience.

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Chill the dough thoroughly; this prevents spreading and ensures clean, round snowballs.
• Use high-quality raspberry jam for a vibrant flavor and bright color.
• Don’t overbake—cookies should remain tender and slightly soft inside for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Dust generously with powdered sugar just before serving for a fresh, snowy appearance.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize this festive dessert, try different fillings like lemon curd or chocolate hazelnut spread. For a nutty twist, toss in chopped pecans or almonds in the dough. To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a good-quality gluten-free baking blend. These modifications allow you to tailor the holiday cookie to your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or presentation.

8. Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Sweet Raspberry Snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to a month—simply thaw at room temperature before serving. Since they’re already coated in powdered sugar, avoid humid environments to prevent clumping. These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they still taste divine after reheating in a low oven or a warm oven setting for a few minutes—just enough to invigorate the buttery aroma.

9. FAQ

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough thoroughly before baking, and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Using parchment paper can also help maintain their shape.

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of jam?

Fresh raspberries can be mashed into a jam-like consistency and used as a filling. Ensure the mashed berries are free of seeds or strain if needed for a smoother filling.

Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! Package them in festive tins or clear cellophane bags tied with ribbons. They make charming and delicious holiday gifts.

10. Conclusion

These Sweet Raspberry Snowballs combine the magic of holiday flavors with effortless baking. Their snowy exterior and fruity burst are sure to delight friends and family alike. Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and create a batch of festive desserts that embody the spirit of Christmas — sweet, tart, and undeniably charming.

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