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
Scale
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.
