As I unwrapped the powdered sugar from its bright white packaging, memories of holiday gatherings flooded my mind. There’s nothing quite like the joy of sharing homemade treats, and that’s where these Cherry Snowball Cookies come into play. They are the ideal festive dessert—soft, buttery, and beautifully coated in a snowy finish, making them a delightful addition to any holiday table. Not only do these cherry cookies pack a punch with flavor thanks to maraschino cherries and chocolate chips, but they also come together quicker than you’d expect, making them perfect for unexpected guests or last-minute cravings. With enticing variations to explore, like chocolate cherry or peppermint, you’ll find endless possibilities to customize your holiday baking. So, are you ready to create a cookie that will leave everyone asking for seconds?
Why Are Cherry Snowball Cookies a Must-Try?
Irresistible Texture: These cookies combine a soft, buttery base with a delightful chewiness that truly melts in your mouth.
Eye-Catching Presentation: Their snowy white powdered sugar coating and delightful pink cherry flecks make them a visually stunning addition to any dessert table.
Flavor Burst: Maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips create a perfect harmony of sweet and rich flavors, leaving everyone wanting more.
Versatile Variations: Experiment with flavors like peppermint or lemon blueberry for a twist, ensuring there’s something for everyone. You might enjoy our Chocolate Oat Cookies for a different sweet treat as well!
Quick and Easy: With only a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip these festive cookies up in no time.
Cherry Snowball Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
- Butter – Room temperature; essential for a rich, buttery base and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Balances sweetness and creates tenderness in the final cookie texture.
- Powdered Sugar – Creates tenderness in the dough; use for rolling to coat cookies.
- Salt – Enhances all flavors present in the cookies.
- Almond Extract – Key flavor component that adds depth to these cherry cookies.
- Vanilla Extract – Pure extract is preferred for the best flavor.
- Cherry Extract – Intensifies cherry flavor; can be substituted with additional almond extract or maraschino cherry juice.
For the Mix-Ins
- Maraschino Cherries – Diced and drained; provides bursts of flavor and beautiful color.
- Mini Chocolate Chips – Semi-sweet chocolate adds delightful crunch and pairs perfectly with cherries.
- Pecans – Finely ground for nutty richness; freshly ground is more flavorful than pre-ground.
For the Dry Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour – Essential structure-building ingredient; measure correctly to avoid dense cookies.
- Powdered Sugar (for coating) – Double-coated on warm cookies provides that snowy finish we love.
Feel excited to make these Cherry Snowball Cookies? With each bite, you’re in for a treat that’ll surely spread festive cheer!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. This step sets the stage for your Cherry Snowball Cookies to bake perfectly, maintaining their delightful texture while offering an easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Mix-Ins
Drain the maraschino cherries well and chop them into quarter-inch pieces, allowing the flavors to shine through in each cookie. Next, pulse the pecans in a food processor until they resemble a fine flour texture, which will enhance the nutty richness in your Cherry Snowball Cookies. Set these mix-ins aside for later.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine room-temperature butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed, creaming the mixture for about 3 minutes until it turns pale and fluffy. This vital step helps to incorporate air, resulting in soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that perfectly embody the essence of Cherry Snowball Cookies.
Step 4: Add the Extracts and Salt
Once the butter and sugars are well-creamed, add almond extract, vanilla extract, cherry extract, and salt to the bowl. Mix these ingredients for approximately 30 seconds to blend the flavors thoroughly. The combination of extracts will create a fragrant base that elevates the sweet cherry flavor in your cookies.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and the ground pecans to the mixing bowl. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix until just combined—about 1-2 minutes. Careful not to overmix, as this will help maintain the tender texture of your Cherry Snowball Cookies, ensuring they’re soft and delightful after baking.
Step 6: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate
Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips with a spatula, evenly distributing them throughout the dough. This step is crucial for that signature pop of fruity goodness and sweet chocolate in every Cherry Snowball Cookie, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 7: Form the Cookies
Scoop out the cookie dough and roll it into 1-inch balls with your hands, placing one chopped cherry in the center of each ball. This delightful trick surprises your guests with an extra hint of cherry flavor as they bite into your Cherry Snowball Cookies, upholding the festive spirit of this beloved holiday treat.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Arrange the rolled cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between them for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, rotating the sheets halfway through for even cooking. Watch the edges turn lightly golden, signaling that your cookies are almost ready.
Step 9: Cool and Coat
After baking, allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they are still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar to create a sweet snowy finish, and then again once they cool completely for a stunning presentation that embodies the spirit of Cherry Snowball Cookies.
What to Serve with Cherry Snowball Cookies?
There’s nothing quite like finishing off a festive meal with delightful treats that complement the cozy spirit of the holidays.
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Hot Chocolate: A rich cup of hot chocolate pairs beautifully, providing warmth and sweetness that enhances the cookie experience.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries offer a refreshing tartness, creating a lovely balance to the sweetness of the cookies.
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Creamy Cheesecake: A slice of vanilla cheesecake adds a luxurious touch to your dessert spread while contrasting the soft texture of the cookies.
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Sparkling Wine: For a more sophisticated option, serve with a glass of bubbly to elevate your holiday gatherings and add a touch of celebration.
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Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of coffee or spiced tea complements the buttery flavors of the cookies, making for a cozy afternoon treat.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoops of creamy vanilla ice cream create an indulgent dessert experience, perfect for those who love sweet, frosty treats.
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Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Strawberries or bananas dipped in chocolate can provide a delightful contrast of textures alongside the Cherry Snowball Cookies.
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Gingerbread Men: For an extra festive flair, serve these cookies alongside classic gingerbread men to play with different holiday flavors.
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Nutty Biscotti: Crisp, nutty biscotti offer a crunchy counterpoint, perfect for dunking into your favorite beverage alongside your Cherry Snowball Cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Snowball Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade treat even on the busiest days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours ahead by rolling it into balls and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months; just flash freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and add an extra couple of minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll have perfectly fresh and delightful Cherry Snowball Cookies ready to share at a moment’s notice!
Cherry Snowball Cookies Variations
Feel free to elevate your Cherry Snowball Cookies experience by exploring these delightful twists on the classic recipe!
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Chocolate Cherry Snowballs: Substitute half the flour with cocoa powder and roll in a mix of powdered sugar and cocoa for a deliciously rich treat. Imagine a beautiful balance of chocolate and cherry in every bite!
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Peppermint Version: Use peppermint extract instead of almond, and fold in crushed candy canes for a refreshing and festive touch. These cookies transform into a holiday favorite with just a hint of minty cheer.
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Tropical Twist: Swap out pecans for macadamia nuts and replace maraschino cherries with dried pineapple for a sunny, island-inspired cookie. This variation brings a vibrant sweetness that’s perfect for summer parties or tropical-themed gatherings.
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Lemon Blueberry: Replace cherries with dried blueberries and add a zest of lemon for a bright, tangy twist. This refreshing option is sure to add a unique flavor profile that compliments the buttery texture beautifully.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free baking blend with xanthan gum to keep these cookies soft and delicious, ensuring everyone can enjoy them regardless of dietary restrictions.
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Nut-Free Option: Omit the pecans and substitute with additional flour for those who need a nut-free solution. Don’t worry; they’ll still be incredibly soft and tasty!
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Spiced Version: Add festive spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to your dough for a warm holiday flavor. This small change adds complexity and comfort, perfect for cozy gatherings.
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Almond Joy Snowballs: Fold in shredded coconut and a few chocolate chunks along with the cherries for a delightful almond joy-inspired treat. Each bite will whisk you away to a tropical paradise!
By making a few simple adjustments, you can create a lineup of cookies that suit any occasion or personal preference. And if you’re seeking another sweet staple, don’t forget to check out our Chocolate Oat Cookies for a delightful twist on classic flavors. The options are endless!
Expert Tips for Cherry Snowball Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Always use room temperature butter for the best texture; overly soft or melted butter can lead to greasy cookies.
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Proper Flour Measurement: Measure flour accurately using the spoon-and-level method to prevent dense, dry cookies that don’t melt in your mouth.
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Thoroughly Dry Cherries: Ensure maraschino cherries are fully dried before adding them to the dough; otherwise, excess moisture can result in soggy cookies.
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Double Powdered Sugar Coating: Roll cookies in powdered sugar twice—once while warm and again after cooling—for a beautiful finish and added sweetness.
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Uniform Cookie Size: Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform size for even baking; this helps each Cherry Snowball Cookie cook perfectly.
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Snowball Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. This allows them to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: For extended freshness, consider refrigerating the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezer: Freeze Cherry Snowball Cookies for up to 3 months. Flash freeze them on a baking sheet before placing in freezer bags, which helps preserve their texture.
Dough Storage: The cookie dough can be frozen as well. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months, so you can bake fresh cookies any time the craving strikes!
Cherry Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe maraschino cherries for the best flavor?
Absolutely! When choosing maraschino cherries, look for those that are bright red and plump, with no dark spots or signs of drying out. They should be free from any damage and ideally have a rich cherry flavor. For the best results, allow them to drain well and dry slightly before incorporating them into your cookies to avoid excess moisture.
How should I store Cherry Snowball Cookies?
You can easily store your Cherry Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep them fresher for longer, refrigerate them where they can last up to 3 weeks; just remember to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze Cherry Snowball Cookies?
Yes! You can freeze your Cherry Snowball Cookies for up to 3 months. To do this, first flash freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their soft texture.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough feels overly sticky, it may be due to the humidity or the butter being too soft. Don’t worry! Just sprinkle in a little extra flour—about a tablespoon at a time—until the desired consistency is reached. It should be soft enough to roll but not sticky to your hands.
Are Cherry Snowball Cookies safe for those with nut allergies?
The traditional recipe does include pecans, making them unsuitable for those with nut allergies. However, you can easily make a nut-free version by simply omitting the nuts and replacing them with an additional tablespoon of flour or using a gluten-free flour blend if needed. Make sure to always check all other ingredients, especially any extracts, to ensure they adhere to dietary needs.
Cherry Snowball Cookies: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Holiday Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Drain and chop the maraschino cherries into quarter-inch pieces. Pulse the pecans in a food processor until finely ground.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together room-temperature butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add almond extract, vanilla extract, cherry extract, and salt. Mix for about 30 seconds to blend.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and ground pecans, mixing until just combined, about 1-2 minutes.
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, placing one chopped cherry in the center of each ball.
- Arrange the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, baking for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then roll in powdered sugar to coat, and again once cookies cool completely.
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