As I stood in my kitchen, the familiar scent of butter and sugar swirling through the air took me on a nostalgic journey to holiday gatherings filled with laughter and warmth. That’s when I realized it was time to whip up my favorite Cherry Snowball Cookies. These festive delights combine a tender, buttery base with sweet-tart maraschino cherries and a delightful crunch from pecans, all enveloped in a light dusting of powdered sugar that transforms them into snowy bites of joy. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also make stunning gifts that spread cheer. Whether you’re hosting a cookie exchange or simply indulging in cozy winter afternoons, this recipe is sure to brighten your season. Ready to see how these charming cookies come together in delightful harmony?
Why are Cherry Snowball Cookies the best?
Unforgettable flavor: The combination of sweet-tart maraschino cherries and crunchy pecans offers an eclectic taste that dances on your palate.
Easily customizable: Feel free to explore variations—consider using dried cranberries or swapping in different nuts like toasted almonds for a unique twist.
Quick gratification: With minimal prep and bake time, these cookies bring festive joy to your table without the hassle.
Crowd pleaser: Perfect for holiday gatherings, they undoubtedly steal the spotlight among other treats—your friends and family will be asking for seconds!
Gift-ready goodness: Pack them up in festive tins along with Kitchen Sink Cookies or Red Velvet Crinkle for delightful presents that spread holiday cheer.
Make your season merry and bright with these easy-to-bake, colorful cookies!
Cherry Snowball Cookie Ingredients
For the Dough
- Butter – Use room temperature butter for optimal creaming and texture.
- Powdered Sugar – This sweetener helps create a delicate shell for the cookies.
- Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness and a tender texture to the dough.
- Salt – A little pinch elevates the flavors throughout the cookie.
- Almond Extract – Infuses a lovely nuttiness that’s essential for depth.
- Vanilla Extract – Choose pure extract to enhance the aromatic quality of the cookies.
- Cherry Extract or Emulsion – Use this for a more pronounced cherry flavor; you can replace it with cherry emulsion if necessary.
- Maraschino Cherries – Drain and finely chop these sweet-tart delights for the best flavor; avoid neon-red varieties for authenticity.
- Pecans – Ground nuts add a wonderful crunch; swap them with toasted almonds or walnuts based on your preference.
- All-Purpose Flour – The base structure of the dough; adjust the quantity due to moisture from cherries.
- Mini Chocolate Chips – These optional semi-sweet bites bring extra richness; mix them in for added fun!
- Additional Powdered Sugar – For rolling, this sugar creates that signature snowball finish.
Enjoy crafting your Cherry Snowball Cookies! They’re not just a treat; they’re a joyful celebration of the season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of room-temperature butter, ½ cup of powdered sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 5 minutes. The mixture should become light and fluffy, turning a pale yellow. This step forms the rich base of your Cherry Snowball Cookies.
Step 2: Add Flavorings
Next, add ¼ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of almond extract, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of cherry extract or emulsion to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until well combined, ensuring all the delightful flavors meld together smoothly. The aromatic blend will enhance the overall taste experience of your cookies.
Step 3: Incorporate Cherries
Drain and finely chop 1 cup of maraschino cherries, making sure to avoid the overly sweet neon-red varieties. Gently fold the chopped cherries into the dough using a spatula, allowing their sweet-tart flavor to infuse throughout the mixture. This step is crucial for achieving the signature taste of Cherry Snowball Cookies.
Step 4: Combine Pecans and Flour
In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of ground pecans with 2 cups of all-purpose flour. Gradually add this mixture to the cherry-infused dough, ½ cup at a time, mixing on low speed until a cohesive dough forms. Aim for a soft texture that holds together well—this will be the foundation of your cookies.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
If you choose to use them, fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips using a wooden spoon, taking care not to overmix the dough. This step adds delicious pockets of chocolate that complement the cherries and pecans beautifully. Ensure the chips are evenly distributed for a balanced flavor in each bite.
Step 6: Chill
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes. This chilling time is essential, as it helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for the delicious Cherry Snowball Cookies.
Step 7: Shape Cookies
Once chilled, scoop out portions of dough, about 1.5 tablespoons each, and roll them into balls. Place these balls on parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading. Each cookie should appear round and compact, ready to bake to perfection.
Step 8: Bake
Bake the Cherry Snowball Cookies in the preheated oven for 15–17 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden, while the tops should remain pale. Keep a close eye to avoid overbaking, as slightly underdone cookies will maintain a soft, tender texture—the hallmark of these delightful treats.
Step 9: Roll in Sugar
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. While still warm, roll each cookie in additional powdered sugar to create that iconic snowball finish. After fully cooling on a wire rack, you can roll them in powdered sugar again for an extra touch of sweetness.
What to Serve with Cherry Snowball Cookies
Treat your taste buds to more than just cookies this holiday season by pairing them with delightful accompaniments that enhance their festive charm.
- Hot Cocoa: As the ultimate cozy drink, rich hot cocoa with whipped cream mirrors the sweetness of the cookies for a cuddly treat.
- Spiced Cider: The warm, spiced notes of apple cider beautifully contrast with the sweet-tart flavor of cherry, creating a heartwarming pairing.
- Coffee: A classic choice that complements the buttery richness of the cookies, especially with a splash of cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: Serve these next to your holiday dessert table for a wonderful textural contrast; the creaminess balances the cookies’ sweetness.
- Texas Roadhouse Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls will invite family and friends to indulge in a warm, comforting atmosphere while snacking on both cookies and bread.
- Chocolate Mint Mousse: A light, airy dessert that adds a refreshing twist—its minty essence will surprise and delight following the sweet snowball treats.
- Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of fresh fruits helps cleanse the palate, offering a refreshing balance to the richness of Cherry Snowball Cookies.
- Peppermint Bark: Festive and crunchy, the combination of dark chocolate and peppermint unites perfectly with the playful cherry flavor, making them a sweet duo.
- Eggnog: Rich, creamy eggnog with a hint of nutmeg invites warmth and nostalgia, making it a wonderful seasonal drink beside these sweet treats.
Expert Tips for Cherry Snowball Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming; cold or melted butter can result in dense cookies.
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Watch the Bake Time: Avoid overbaking by keeping an eye on your cookies; slightly underbaked ones will continue cooking on the hot baking tray, creating a lovely soft texture.
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Chilling is Key: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring you achieve the perfect snowball shape.
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Mix Well: When folding in chocolate chips, use a wooden spoon and avoid overmixing the dough to maintain the tender texture of Cherry Snowball Cookies.
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Customize Wisely: For variations, think beyond cherries—dried cranberries or different nuts like almonds can add unique flavors while keeping the essence of the original recipe.
Cherry Snowball Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Customize these delightful treats to suit your taste and make them even more special!
- Nut-Free: Omit the pecans entirely, or replace them with sunflower seeds for a crunchy, nut-free option.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with an equal amount of coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free treat.
- Fruity Twist: Swap maraschino cherries with dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a unique flavor profile.
- Citrusy Zing: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough for a refreshing brightness that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
- Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate dark chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips for richer chocolatey goodness.
- Spicy Heat: For an unexpected kick, mix in a pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder to the dough—this will add warmth and depth.
- Alternative Extracts: Experiment with different extracts like coconut or lemon instead of almond for a new flavor experience.
- Festive Sprinkles: Roll your cookies in festive holiday sprinkles instead of powdered sugar for a colorful, celebratory finish!
Feel free to explore these ideas and make this recipe your own. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or cozying up at home, Cherry Snowball Cookies are sure to delight!
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Snowball Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours ahead by following the initial steps, then cover and refrigerate it. To maintain quality, make sure to wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and roll the chilled dough into balls, then bake as directed. You can also freeze the formed cookie dough balls for up to 3 months; just let them thaw in the refrigerator before baking for fresh, delicious results. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have time for other holiday festivities!
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Snowball Cookies
Fridge: Store Cherry Snowball Cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week to maintain freshness. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezer: Freeze cookies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can last for up to 3 months, ensuring delightful treats are always on hand.
Thawing: Thaw frozen cookies in the refrigerator overnight or allow them to sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
Reheating: For a warm cookie experience, gently reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
Cherry Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right maraschino cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose high-quality maraschino cherries that aren’t neon red. Look for cherries labeled as “natural” or “premium,” which often have more authentic sweetness and a pleasing tartness. Drain and chop them finely to integrate their flavor smoothly into the dough.
How should I store my Cherry Snowball Cookies to keep them fresh?
Very good question! Store your cookies in an airtight container, layered with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together, for up to 1 week in the fridge. This approach helps maintain their delightful texture and flavor. If you’d like, you can also freeze them for up to 3 months for a treat whenever you desire!
Can I freeze Cherry Snowball Cookies? What’s the best method?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be kept this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for an hour.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Great question! If your cookies spread excessively, it’s often due to the dough being too warm or not properly chilled before baking. To remedy this, make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes; this helps it firm up, preventing too much spreading in the oven. Additionally, spacing them at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet can help ensure they bake evenly.
Are Cherry Snowball Cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
For those with nut allergies, you can definitely omit the pecans and substitute them with seeds like sunflower seeds or simply leave them out entirely. Just remember to check other ingredients like extracts to ensure they’re free from cross-contamination if allergies are severe. Always prioritize safety and feel free to customize based on dietary needs!
What will the texture of the cookies be like after baking?
Great question! The finished Cherry Snowball Cookies should be soft and tender, with a melt-in-your-mouth quality thanks to the powdered sugar coating. The combination of chewy cherries, crunchy pecans, and a hint of chocolate creates a wonderful contrast that will remind you of delicate snowballs, perfect for festive celebrations!
Cherry Snowball Cookies for a Festive Sweet Escape
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 5 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add salt, almond extract, vanilla extract, and cherry extract to the mixture and mix on low speed until well combined.
- Finely chop maraschino cherries and gently fold them into the dough using a spatula.
- In a separate bowl, combine ground pecans with all-purpose flour, then add this mixture to the dough gradually.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips if using, ensuring they're evenly distributed without overmixing.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes, then preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Scoop portions of dough, roll them into balls, and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets with space between each.
- Bake for 15–17 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden while the tops remain pale.
- Remove from the oven, cool slightly, and roll in powdered sugar while still warm, then cool completely on a wire rack.
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