Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Cherry Snowball Cookies! These little gems are like a burst of joy wrapped in a soft, buttery cookie, and they’re absolutely loaded with sweet maraschino cherries.
Every time I make them, I’m transported back to my grandma’s kitchen during the holidays, where the air was filled with the scent of fresh-baked cookies and laughter.
The best part? They’re rolled in powdered sugar, giving them that snowy, festive look that makes them perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you take a bite, the delightful flavors will have you reaching for seconds (or thirds!).
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and create your own sweet memories!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (makes for easier mixing and a fluffy texture)
- 1/2 cup packed powdered sugar (don’t skimp on packing it in for that sweet goodness!)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for that lovely, warm flavor that complements the cherries perfectly)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (be sure to spoon and level it for accuracy—no one wants dry cookies!)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (just a pinch to enhance all those yummy flavors)
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained (this is where the magic happens—sweet and juicy bites in every cookie!)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, but I love adding walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch)
- Extra powdered sugar for rolling (this is the finishing touch that gives them that snowy appearance!)
How to Prepare Cherry Snowball Cookies
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven nice and toasty! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) before you dive into the mixing. This step is super important because it ensures your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden hue. Trust me, a well-preheated oven makes all the difference in the world!
Creaming the Butter and Sugar
Now, grab your softened butter and powdered sugar, and let’s cream them together. In a large mixing bowl, beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes should do it! This is where you want to get some air in there, so don’t rush it! If it looks pale and super airy, you’re right on track. It’s like magic happening right in your bowl!
Mixing the Dough
Next, it’s time to add the vanilla extract, flour, and salt. Gently mix until everything is just combined—don’t overmix, or your cookies might turn out tough! Once that batter is looking smooth, fold in those delicious chopped maraschino cherries and optional nuts. This is where the cookie dough gets its personality, so be gentle but thorough!
Shaping and Baking
Now, let’s shape our dough! Use your hands to roll small balls—about 1 inch in size—then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each ball because they’ll spread a little while baking. Pop them in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden around the edges. You want them to be firm yet soft to the touch when they come out!
Rolling in Powdered Sugar
Once your cookies are done baking, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. I know it’s hard to wait, but this helps them firm up just right! After they’ve cooled a bit, roll them in powdered sugar for that final touch. This makes them look like little snowballs! And, oh boy, the taste is just heavenly—sweet, buttery, and oh-so-cherrylicious!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Hey there, cookie lovers! I just want to share a quick note about the nutritional information for these Cherry Snowball Cookies. Keep in mind that the nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I’ve provided some typical values, they’re not set in stone. For instance, one cookie usually contains around 120 calories, with about 8g of sugar and 7g of fat. But remember, these values can change depending on the choices you make in the kitchen. So, enjoy your cookies and savor every bite, knowing you’ve made something delicious and special!
Why You’ll Love Cherry Snowball Cookies
- Quick and easy to make—perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings!
- Soft, buttery texture that melts in your mouth with every bite.
- Sweet maraschino cherries add a delightful burst of flavor.
- The snowy powdered sugar coating creates a festive and fun presentation.
- Great for sharing—everyone loves a little treat that looks as good as it tastes!
- Versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round, not just during the holidays.
- Customizable with nuts for added crunch or even different fruit options!
- Each cookie is a little piece of nostalgia, bringing back warm memories of family and friends.
Tips for Success
Alright, cookie enthusiasts, let’s make sure your Cherry Snowball Cookies turn out absolutely perfect! Here are my favorite tips to keep in mind while baking:
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels a bit too soft and sticky to roll into balls, don’t fret! Just pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm it up, making it easier to handle and ensuring your cookies hold their shape while baking.
- Use Fresh Maraschino Cherries: For the best flavor, opt for fresh maraschino cherries! They give the cookies a vibrant taste and juicy texture. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your dough.
- Don’t Overmix: Remember, when you’re mixing the flour into the butter mixture, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them to be soft and buttery!
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Ovens can vary, so check them a minute or two early. You want them to be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the middle.
- Cool Before Rolling: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before rolling them in powdered sugar. This helps the sugar stick better and avoids a melty mess!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set for cookie success! Now go on, bake those Cherry Snowball Cookies, and enjoy every delightful bite!
Variations on Cherry Snowball Cookies
Now, if you’re feeling adventurous (and I know you are!), there are so many fun ways to mix things up with your Cherry Snowball Cookies. Let’s explore some delightful variations that’ll cater to different tastes and keep things exciting!
- Dried Cherry Delight: Swap out those maraschino cherries for dried cherries! They’ll add a chewy texture and a slightly tart flavor that balances beautifully with the buttery cookie.
- Nuts Galore: While I love walnuts or pecans in my cookies, you can use any nuts you fancy! Try almonds for a lighter crunch or even hazelnuts for a unique twist. Just make sure they’re chopped up nicely.
- Chocolate Chip Twist: For the chocolate lovers out there, add in some mini chocolate chips! They’ll melt into gooey pockets of joy that complement the cherries perfectly.
- Coconut Cloud: Mix in some sweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flair! It adds a lovely chewiness and pairs wonderfully with the cherries.
- Spiced Up: Want to give your cookies a little warmth? Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough. It’ll give them a cozy vibe, perfect for chilly days!
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works for baking. Just make sure it contains a binding agent to hold everything together.
With these variations, you can create a whole new cookie experience each time you bake! So go ahead, experiment, and find your favorite version of these delightful Cherry Snowball Cookies! I can’t wait to hear about your tasty creations!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After all that baking, you’re probably wondering how to keep those delicious Cherry Snowball Cookies fresh for as long as possible! Here’s the scoop:
- Storing: Once your cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container. This will keep them soft and tasty! I recommend layering them with parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking and keep that powdered sugar looking fabulous.
- How Long They Last: If stored properly, these cookies can last up to a week at room temperature. But trust me, they’re so good, they probably won’t last that long!
- Freezing: Want to save some for later? You can freeze these cookies! Just place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing to maintain their texture.
- Reheating: If you prefer your cookies warm, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will give them that fresh-baked feel! If you want to reheat a larger batch, you can place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Just keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking!
With these simple tips, you can enjoy your Cherry Snowball Cookies fresh and delicious even days after baking. So go ahead, indulge a little longer!
Print
Cherry Snowball Cookies: 7 Joyful Bites of Nostalgia
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cherry Snowball Cookies are soft, buttery cookies loaded with maraschino cherries and rolled in powdered sugar.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until combined.
- Fold in the chopped cherries and nuts if using.
- Shape the dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Let cookies cool slightly, then roll in powdered sugar.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- Can replace maraschino cherries with dried cherries for a different flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Cherry Snowball Cookies, Christmas cookies, dessert recipes