Here’s a list of ingredients for **Linzer Thumbprint Snowballs**, optimized with SEO-friendly formatting and keywords to help you rank better for baking-related searches:
- **Unsalted butter** (softened, for a rich and buttery cookie base)
- **Powdered sugar** (for sweetness and a smooth texture)
- **Vanilla extract** (to enhance flavor and aroma)
- **All-purpose flour** (the base for the cookie dough)
- **Almond flour** (adds a nutty flavor and tender crumb, perfect for Linzer-style cookies)
- **Salt** (to balance the sweetness)
- **Raspberry jam** (classic filling for Linzer thumbprint cookies, adds a fruity touch)
- **Confectioners’ sugar** (for dusting the snowballs, creating a festive look)
- **Finely chopped nuts** (optional, such as almonds or walnuts, for added texture and flavor)
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- Linzer thumbprint snowballs
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This ingredient list and keyword strategy will help your recipe stand out in search results for holiday baking and cookie enthusiasts!
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Steps
# How to Make Linzer Thumbprint Snowballs: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you're looking for a festive and delicious holiday treat, Linzer Thumbprint Snowballs are the perfect choice. These buttery, nutty cookies filled with jam and dusted with powdered sugar are a crowd-pleaser. Follow this detailed guide to create these delightful baked goods that are sure to impress your family and friends.
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## **Ingredients for Linzer Thumbprint Snowballs**
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup finely ground almonds or hazelnuts
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raspberry or apricot jam (or your favorite flavor)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Preheat and Prepare**
- Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy cleanup.
### **2. Cream Butter and Sugar**
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together **1 cup softened butter** and **1/2 cup powdered sugar** until light and fluffy.
- Add **1 teaspoon vanilla extract** and mix until combined.
### **3. Add Dry Ingredients**
- In a separate bowl, whisk together **2 cups all-purpose flour**, **1/2 cup ground almonds or hazelnuts**, and **1/4 teaspoon salt**.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
### **4. Shape the Dough**
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into smooth balls.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
### **5. Create Thumbprint Indentations**
- Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to press a shallow indentation into the center of each dough ball.
- Fill each indentation with **1/2 teaspoon of raspberry or apricot jam**.
### **6. Bake to Perfection**
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for **12-15 minutes**, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
### **7. Dust with Powdered Sugar**
- Once the cookies are completely cool, dust them generously with powdered sugar for a snowy, festive look.
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## **Tips for Success**
- Use high-quality jam for the best flavor.
- For a nut-free version, substitute the ground nuts with additional flour.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
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## **Why You’ll Love These Cookies**
Linzer Thumbprint Snowballs are a delightful twist on traditional holiday cookies. The combination of buttery dough, nutty flavor, and sweet jam filling makes them irresistible. Plus, their snowy appearance adds a touch of winter magic to any dessert table.
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By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll create a batch of Linzer Thumbprint Snowballs that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as a thoughtful homemade gift, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
This SEO-friendly guide is designed to help you rank higher in search results while providing readers with a clear, easy-to-follow recipe. Happy baking!