The holidays call for a bit of magic, and these Blueberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies deliver just that. Beneath their soft, snowy exterior lies a sweet surprise of blueberry preserves that adds a fruity burst to every bite. With finely ground almonds enhancing the rich, nutty flavor of the buttery dough, these cookies are melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering, creating a charming homemade gift, or simply treating yourself with a cup of tea, these cookies make every occasion feel extra special. They’re as elegant as they are comforting—a delightful blend of tradition and whimsy in every powdered sugar-coated bite.
Full Recipe:
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1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
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1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 teaspoon almond extract
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2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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3/4 cup (85 g) finely ground almonds (or almond flour)
For the Filling:
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1/2 cup blueberry preserves or jam
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1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Directions:
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Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
Mix in vanilla and almond extracts.
Gradually add flour, salt, and ground almonds, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Cover and chill for 30 minutes. -
Prepare the Filling:
In a small bowl, stir together blueberry preserves and lemon zest if using. -
Assemble the Cookies:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough, flatten slightly in your palm.
Place 1/2 teaspoon of blueberry filling in the center and gently wrap dough around it to form a ball.
Place on baking sheet 1 inch apart. -
Bake & Coat in Sugar:
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden.
Let cool for 5 minutes, then roll cookies in powdered sugar while still warm.
Once completely cool, roll in powdered sugar again for a snowy finish.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: ~150 kcal per cookie | Servings: 24 cookies
A Sweet Winter Classic: Blueberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies
If there were ever a cookie that embodied winter coziness, holiday gatherings, and delicate charm, it would be the snowball cookie. Traditionally made with butter, flour, and finely chopped nuts, these melt-in-your-mouth delights are known for their rich, crumbly texture and powdered sugar coating that mimics freshly fallen snow. The Blueberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies take this nostalgic favorite a step further by adding a fruity, jammy surprise in the center—an unexpected burst of flavor that elevates the cookie into something truly memorable.
Perfect for festive occasions, tea parties, or simply when you’re craving something a little extra special, these cookies offer a delicious contrast between the nutty exterior and the sweet-tart blueberry filling. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a casual cookie enthusiast, this recipe is sure to win hearts and spark conversation.
A European-Inspired Delicacy with a Fruity Twist
Snowball cookies trace their roots back to European holiday baking traditions, where nutty shortbread-style cookies such as Mexican Wedding Cookies, Russian Tea Cakes, and Viennese crescents were made to celebrate winter festivities. What makes snowball cookies so beloved across cultures is their tender crumb, subtle nutty flavor, and ability to melt effortlessly on the tongue.
The Blueberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookie honors this tradition while bringing a modern, fruity spin into the mix. The filling of blueberry preserves or jam hidden in the center turns each cookie into a mini dessert surprise, adding not just flavor but also a beautiful textural contrast. The tartness of the blueberry balances the buttery richness of the dough, and the almond flavor enhances the overall depth of the cookie without overpowering the fruit.
The Allure of Almonds in Baking
Almonds, used in both flour and extract form in this recipe, play a key role in the cookie’s texture and flavor. Finely ground almonds (or almond flour) give the dough a soft, nutty bite and help create that iconic crumbly snowball structure. Almond extract, meanwhile, lends a fragrant, marzipan-like undertone that pairs beautifully with the blueberry filling.
Using almond flour also makes this recipe a bit more forgiving for those looking for gluten-free adaptations, as it’s naturally free of gluten and can be substituted in part for traditional flour. The result is a cookie that’s rich but delicate, nutty yet balanced.
Blueberries: The Star of the Show
The filling is where the magic happens. Blueberries, often associated with summer, are preserved into jams and compotes that bring their juicy, tangy sweetness into colder months. In this recipe, the blueberry filling isn’t just a garnish or a topping—it’s hidden treasure. Encased in the dough, it offers a pop of color and flavor with every bite.
You can use store-bought blueberry preserves for ease and consistency, or make your own quick blueberry compote with fresh or frozen berries, a splash of lemon juice, and a spoonful of sugar simmered until thick. This not only allows you to control the sweetness and tartness but also adds a homemade touch that makes the cookies feel even more special.
Tips for Success
Because these cookies rely on a delicate dough and a hidden filling, here are a few pro tips to ensure baking success:
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Chill the Dough: After mixing, allow the dough to rest and chill. This firms it up, making it easier to handle and preventing excessive spreading during baking.
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Seal the Filling Well: When wrapping the dough around the jam, be sure to completely enclose the filling. Pinch the edges and gently roll the dough into a ball to avoid leaks during baking.
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Double Coating: For that beautiful snowy finish, roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice—once while warm to ensure the sugar sticks, and again after cooling for a flawless, frosty appearance.
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Cool Completely Before Storing: Let the cookies cool fully on a wire rack to avoid condensation in storage, which can cause the powdered sugar to dissolve and the cookies to become soggy.
When and How to Serve Them
These cookies are incredibly versatile. Serve them:
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At Holiday Gatherings: They add a touch of elegance to cookie platters and look beautiful alongside other festive treats.
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With Tea or Coffee: Their tender crumb makes them an ideal pairing with a warm drink, whether it’s black tea, espresso, or hot cocoa.
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As Gifts: Packaged in cellophane bags or cookie tins, they make heartfelt edible gifts for neighbors, teachers, or coworkers.
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For Dessert Trays: Their small, round shape and powdered finish make them excellent for dessert spreads at weddings, baby showers, or afternoon teas.
These cookies are small enough to enjoy in a couple of bites but satisfying enough to feel like a real treat.
Fun Variations to Try
Once you master the basic recipe, feel free to experiment with creative spins:
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Lemon Blueberry Snowballs: Add lemon zest to the dough for a brighter flavor that enhances the blueberry filling.
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Chocolate Snowballs: Mix mini chocolate chips into the dough or dip baked cookies in melted chocolate.
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Nut-Free Version: Replace the almond flour with extra all-purpose flour for a version that accommodates nut allergies.
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Different Jams: Swap blueberry for raspberry, cherry, fig, or even Nutella for fun and flavorful alternatives.
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Add Crunch: Fold in chopped toasted almonds or pistachios to the dough for extra texture.
Each variation adds its own personality to the snowball concept while keeping the melt-in-your-mouth quality intact.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
These cookies are perfect for prepping in advance. You can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking or even freeze unbaked dough balls (without coating them in sugar). Simply bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time, and finish with the powdered sugar rolls as directed.
Once baked and cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To refresh the “snowy” look before serving, dust lightly with extra powdered sugar.
For long-term storage, freeze the baked cookies before coating them in sugar. When ready to serve, let them come to room temperature, then roll in powdered sugar to revive their festive appearance.
Why Everyone Loves These Cookies
There’s something uniquely satisfying about biting into a cookie that offers a surprise. The crisp, sugary exterior gives way to tender almond dough, which in turn reveals a center of sweet blueberry. It’s a layered experience—visually appealing, texturally rich, and flavorfully complex.
These cookies are especially great for people who enjoy refined treats. They’re less sweet than frosted sugar cookies, more interesting than plain shortbread, and offer a sensory experience that’s hard to beat. Whether served on a holiday dessert table or wrapped as a gift, they evoke warmth, care, and culinary charm.
Conclusion
Blueberry Filled Almond Snowball Cookies are more than just a seasonal sweet—they’re an invitation to celebrate tradition with a twist. Combining the nostalgic comfort of nutty shortbread with the playful surprise of blueberry jam, they offer a bite-sized moment of joy. Their simple yet elegant appearance makes them suitable for both formal celebrations and cozy kitchen counters.
Whether you’re baking them for the holidays or simply indulging in an afternoon of home baking, these cookies are sure to bring smiles. With room for creativity, make-ahead convenience, and wide appeal across age groups and preferences, they might just become a new staple in your seasonal baking rotation.
So put on your apron, preheat the oven, and get ready to roll—because snowy cookie magic is just a few simple steps away.