If you’ve been searching for a delightful and charming treat to brighten up any celebration, then you’re going to love this Cherry Snowball Cookies – A Festive Treat for Every Occasion Recipe. These tender, buttery cookies studded with vibrant maraschino cherries and a gentle dusting of powdered sugar bring just the right balance of sweet, nutty, and festive flavors. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want to share a little joy, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a seasonal favorite that warms hearts and fills homes with amazing aromas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to bake these Cherry Snowball Cookies is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward, yet each plays a vital role in making the cookies melt-in-your-mouth delicious and visually irresistible.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This provides a rich, creamy base that helps the cookies stay tender and moist.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling): Adds delicate sweetness and gives the snowball effect once the cookies are rolled in it.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses every bite with warmth and enhances all the other flavors.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The essential structure that holds the cookies together with perfect softness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry: Adds a pop of festive red color and juicy bursts of flavor throughout the cookies.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Introduces a lovely crunch and earthy undertone, perfect if you like a nutty twist.
How to Make Cherry Snowball Cookies – A Festive Treat for Every Occasion Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure that your cookies don’t stick, and cleanup is effortless. This simple prep sets the stage for perfectly baked cookies.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process is crucial because it incorporates air, giving your cookies that tender, melt-away texture everyone loves.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Once your butter and sugar are creamed beautifully, stir in the vanilla extract. This small addition works like magic to deepen the flavor and gives your cookies a warm, inviting aroma that makes any kitchen feel cozy.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Form the Dough
Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing gently after each addition until you have a soft dough forming. Avoid overmixing here; you want to keep the dough tender, not tough.
Step 5: Fold in Cherries and Nuts
Next comes the fun part—folding in the finely chopped maraschino cherries and, if you choose, the chopped nuts. These add bursts of color, sweet tartness, and satisfying crunch, turning simple dough into a festive masterpiece.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, form the dough into small balls and space them about 2 inches apart on your parchment-lined baking sheet. Pop them into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges start to turn a delicate golden hue.
Step 7: Cool and Powder
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the tray for about 5 minutes—this helps them firm slightly without losing softness inside. While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar to create that signature snowy look. After they’re completely cool, give them a second generous dusting for full festive effect!
How to Serve Cherry Snowball Cookies – A Festive Treat for Every Occasion Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle an extra pinch of powdered sugar on a serving platter or consider adding a tiny edible silver star on top of each cookie for an elegant, holiday touch. Fresh mint leaves on the side can also provide a lovely contrast in color and aroma.
Side Dishes
Pair these snowball cookies with a warm cup of spiced chai or hot cocoa for a perfect cozy moment. They also go wonderfully alongside a bowl of fresh mixed berries or a mild, creamy cheese like mascarpone if you want to expand your festive spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a memorable presentation, arrange the Cherry Snowball Cookies in a festive tin filled with crinkled parchment or colored tissue paper. Another delightful idea is to stack them in a glass jar tied with a red ribbon, making both a beautiful gift and a delightful treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to five days, keeping their tender texture and lovely powdered sugar coating intact.
Freezing
If you want to save these festive treats for later, freeze the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a sealed freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy thawed cookies as if freshly baked, simply warm them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This brings back some of their original softness and refreshes their delightful aroma perfectly.
FAQs
Can I substitute the maraschino cherries with fresh cherries?
Fresh cherries have more moisture, which can affect the dough’s texture, making it a bit softer or stickier. If you prefer fresh, make sure to pit and finely chop them, then thoroughly drain or gently pat dry to remove excess liquid before folding into the dough.
Are nuts necessary in the Cherry Snowball Cookies – A Festive Treat for Every Occasion Recipe?
Absolutely not! The nuts add lovely crunch and flavor, but you can omit them if you have allergies, dietary restrictions, or simply prefer the cookies without. They will still be wonderfully tasty and festive.
How do I make the cookies extra cherry-flavored?
For a bolder cherry taste, try lightly pressing a whole maraschino cherry into the center of each dough ball before baking. This little surprise adds both flavor and visual charm to your snowball cookies.
Can I use powdered sugar alternatives for rolling?
Powdered sugar is best for the traditional snowy coating look and sweet finish. While alternatives like cornstarch can be used, they might alter the taste or texture. Sticking with powdered sugar ensures authentic flavor and appearance.
What’s the best way to store these cookies during the holidays?
During busy holiday seasons, keep the cookies in airtight containers layered with parchment paper between them at room temperature. This protects the powdered sugar coating and keeps the cookies fresh. If making gifts, freezing then thawing before gifting is a great option.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give this Cherry Snowball Cookies – A Festive Treat for Every Occasion Recipe a try because it truly brings a sparkle to any gathering or quiet moment at home. Easy to make with simple ingredients and bursting with festive flavors, these cookies are sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. There’s something so heartwarming about baking and sharing these snowy delights—they’re not only treats for your taste buds but also for your soul.
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cherry Snowball Cookies are a festive and delightful treat perfect for holiday celebrations or any special occasion. These buttery cookies are studded with finely chopped maraschino cherries and nuts, then dusted with powdered sugar for a snowy, eye-catching finish. Soft on the inside with a slight crisp edge, they bring a sweet burst of cherry flavor with every bite, making them a favorite for gifting or sharing.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar together until the mixture becomes light, smooth, and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms without overworking to keep cookies tender.
- Fold in Cherries and Nuts: Gently fold the finely chopped maraschino cherries and nuts into the dough, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Shape Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of dough and roll them carefully into balls. Place each ball about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow room for spreading.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, indicating that the cookies are cooked but still soft inside.
- Initial Cooling and Sugar Coating: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. While still warm, gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat them easily.
- Final Cooling and Sugaring: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar a second time to create a snowy, festive appearance.
Notes
- For a stronger cherry flavor, press a whole maraschino cherry lightly into the center of each cookie before baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- These cookies freeze well; store in a freezer-safe container for longer preservation.
