Snowflakes drift softly outside, while the aroma of freshly baked Cherry Snowball Cookies fills my kitchen. These festive treats are not just cookies; they’re little bites of joy that blend tender buttery goodness with the sweet surprise of maraschino cherries and crunchy pecans. Perfectly suited for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that delights the senses. Plus, these cookies are a fantastic make-ahead option—just wait a day or two for the flavors to truly shine! Whether you’re an experienced home chef or just looking to rekindle your love for homemade sweets, the Cherry Snowball Cookies are waiting to become a cherished part of your festive tradition. What special twist will you add to make these cookies your own?
Why Are Cherry Snowball Cookies Special?
Nostalgic Flavor: Each bite of these cookies evokes warm memories of holiday baking, thanks to the delightful combination of maraschino cherries and crunchy pecans.
Easy Preparation: The straightforward method means anyone can whip these up, making them perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs.
Festive Appeal: Beautifully dusted in powdered sugar, these cookies are visually stunning and ideal for holiday gatherings, ensuring they’ll be a crowd favorite.
Versatile Variations: From Southern Style with bourbon to a Valentine’s Day twist, there are countless ways to customize and make these cookies uniquely yours.
Make-Ahead Perfection: They only get better with time, making them a fantastic choice for holiday gifting or family celebrations. Enjoy with a steaming cup of cocoa for the ultimate winter treat!
Cherry Snowball Cookies Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create these delightful holiday treats!
For the Dough
- Butter – Creates tenderness and richness in the dough; use room temperature butter for best results.
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to the tender texture of the cookies; keep extra on hand for rolling.
- Granulated Sugar – Helps achieve a light and fluffy texture during creaming for your Cherry Snowball Cookies.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavors of the cookies; a little goes a long way!
- Almond Extract – This essential flavor component complements the cherries and chocolate beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract – Provides depth of flavor; opt for pure extract for the best taste.
- Cherry Extract or Emulsion – Intensifies the cherry flavor; if unavailable, choose emulsion for a richer profile.
- Maraschino Cherries – Drained and chopped, these cherries provide the signature festive flavor you’ll love!
- Pecans – Finely ground pecans contribute a delightful nuttiness; can be substituted with walnuts or almonds.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms dough structure; measure carefully depending on moisture from cherries.
- Mini Chocolate Chips – Offers rich bursts of flavor; semi-sweet chocolate is recommended for balance.
For the Dusting
- Powdered Sugar – Essential for that snowy finish, so have plenty ready for rolling!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of room temperature butter, ½ cup of powdered sugar, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat for about 5 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This crucial step will ensure that your Cherry Snowball Cookies have a tender texture and delightful flakiness.
Step 2: Add Flavorings
Next, blend in ¼ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of almond extract, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of cherry extract. Mix well until the flavors are fully incorporated. You’ll be greeted by a lovely fragrance that will make your kitchen feel extra inviting. This aromatic mixture is the heart of your Cherry Snowball Cookies.
Step 3: Prepare the Cherries
Drain ½ cup of maraschino cherries thoroughly and chop them finely. Gently fold the cherries into the dough with a spatula, taking care not to overmix. The bright pops of cherry add sweetness and color to your cookies, making them both festive and delicious. Ensure each cookie has that signature cherry flavor embedded throughout.
Step 4: Incorporate the Pecans
Add ½ cup of finely ground pecans to your dough and mix until they are evenly distributed. The pecans will contribute a wonderful nuttiness that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cherries. This balance is essential for creating tasty and memorable Cherry Snowball Cookies.
Step 5: Mix in the Flour
Gradually incorporate 2 cups of all-purpose flour into the dough, adding it ½ cup at a time. Mix until the dough comes together and is no longer sticky or dry. You should achieve a smooth, soft dough ready to be shaped. This step is critical for ensuring your cookies hold their form while baking.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips using a wooden spoon, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the dough. This addition gives your Cherry Snowball Cookies a lovely burst of rich chocolate flavor without overpowering the cherries. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough.
Step 7: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 30-60 minutes. Chilling will make the dough easier to roll into balls and help prevent the cookies from spreading when baked. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough feels firm to the touch, making your Cherry Snowball Cookies perfectly shaped.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and place them 2 inches apart on lined baking sheets. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-17 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. This is where the buttery aroma fills your kitchen, signaling that your festive Cherry Snowball Cookies are nearly ready to enjoy!
Step 9: Dust with Sugar
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they are still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar for the signature snowy effect, then cool completely. For extra sweetness, roll them again in powdered sugar for that classic Cherry Snowball Cookies look.
What to Serve with Cherry Snowball Cookies?
Indulge in a delightful spread that perfectly complements the sweet, festive flavors of these charming cookies!
- Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy, a steaming cup of hot cocoa pairs wonderfully, enhancing the cozy vibe of holiday gatherings.
- Spiced Cider: The warm spices of apple cider provide a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, creating a harmonious taste experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Soft and creamy ice cream adds a cool counterpoint to the warm cookies, making for an unforgettable dessert treat.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheddar or tangy goat cheese offers a delightful savory balance to the sweet cherry flavors in the cookies.
Imagine serving these alongside a cozy fire, where the soft texture of the cookies meets the warmth of spiced cider. Each sip and bite melds into cherished moments, making any gathering the stuff of sweet memories.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh berries and citrus provide a refreshing palate cleanser, brightening up the dessert table while complementing the cookies’ sweet notes.
- Christmas Punch: A festive blend of cranberries, oranges, and ginger ale not only invigorates the senses but also adds a cheerful touch to your holiday spread.
These thoughtful pairings elevate your Cherry Snowball Cookies, transforming ordinary moments into a celebration of flavors and warmth that’s oh-so-memorable!
Expert Tips for Cherry Snowball Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Always start with room temperature butter to ensure proper creaming; cold butter can lead to dense cookies.
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Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; pulling them out when slightly underdone ensures a soft, tender center.
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Check Dough Consistency: If your dough feels sticky, sprinkle in small amounts of flour until it comes together. Conversely, a splash of milk can remedy too-dry dough.
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Chill Time is Key: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the dough firm up and reduces spreading while baking, creating perfectly shaped Cherry Snowball Cookies.
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Powdered Sugar Bonus: For a double “snowball” effect, allow cookies to cool slightly after baking, roll them in powdered sugar, and roll again once cooled. This adds both sweetness and visual charm!
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Snowball Cookies are an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy deliciousness with minimal fuss on busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and then refrigerating it tightly wrapped to keep it fresh. Chilling the dough helps maintain its shape while baking, ensuring your cookies remain perfectly tender. Simply scoop out tablespoon-size portions and bake as directed when you’re ready to enjoy them. For an even more delightful treat, you can roll them in powdered sugar a day or two before serving to enhance their flavor, making these festive cookies just as delicious and bursting with holiday spirit!
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Snowball Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Cherry Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving to restore that festive look.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls or baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. If freezing baked cookies, layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To enjoy freshly baked flavors again, reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes, once thawed.
Cherry Snowball Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Embrace your creativity by customizing these delightful cookies to suit your taste and occasion!
- Southern Style: Swap pecans for chopped toasted almonds and add a splash of bourbon extract for a rich southern twist. This variation brings warmth and a hint of celebration to your holiday table.
- New England Holiday: Replace maraschino cherries with dried cranberries and fold in orange zest for a fresh, seasonal flavor. The citrusy notes will awaken your senses and create a festive aroma.
- Midwest Comfort: Use walnuts instead of pecans and incorporate a hint of maple extract to add a comforting sweetness. Picture cozy gatherings with these delightful cookies on the dessert platter!
- West Coast Fresh: Mix in dried apricots along with the cherries for a fruity surprise. The combination of flavors will inspire thoughts of sun-kissed afternoons while enjoying these fresh treats.
- Valentine’s Day Special: Shape the dough into hearts and use colorful mini chocolate chips to add a pop of festivity. These cookies make perfect love-filled gifts for friends or family!
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them completely for a nut-free alternative while keeping the texture rich and delightful. These cookies will still shine without the nuts!
- Gluten-Free Delight: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these Cherry Snowball Cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. Everyone deserves to enjoy these treats during the holidays!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle warmth and flavor complexity. This unexpected twist will surprise and delight any adventurous foodie.
These variations offer lovely ways to make the Cherry Snowball Cookies uniquely your own! For more creative ideas, don’t forget to check out holiday cookies and dessert recipes that can elevate your festive gatherings!
Cherry Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of cherries should I use for Cherry Snowball Cookies?
Absolutely! For these cookies, I recommend using maraschino cherries as they provide a sweet, festive flavor that really shines through. Make sure to drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
How should I store my Cherry Snowball Cookies?
For best results, store your Cherry Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week. Just dust them with powdered sugar just before serving to keep that holiday charm!
Can I freeze Cherry Snowball Cookies?
Yes, you can! Freeze either the unbaked dough or baked cookies for up to 3 months. If freezing dough, scoop tablespoon-sized balls and layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. For baked cookies, also layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and bake or enjoy as is!
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, don’t panic! Simply sprinkle in small amounts of flour, mixing until the dough comes together. If the dough is too dry, add a splash of milk to bring it back to the right consistency. Finding that sweet spot takes a little practice, but you’ll get there!
Are there any allergy considerations with Cherry Snowball Cookies?
Definitely! These cookies contain butter, nuts (pecans), and gluten from all-purpose flour. If allergies are a concern, you can substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative, use almond flour for a gluten-free version, or swap the pecans with seeds like sunflower seeds for nut-free options. Always double-check the labels to ensure safety!
Can I add extra ingredients to customize my Cherry Snowball Cookies?
The more the merrier! Feel free to mix in different flavors or ingredients to make these cookies unique to your taste. For instance, try adding a hint of orange zest for a citrusy note, or swap out pecans for walnuts for a different nutty flavor. Customizing the recipe is a wonderful way to add a personal touch!
Cherry Snowball Cookies: A Festive Treat for Sweet Memories
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar for about 5 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Blend in salt, almond extract, vanilla extract, and cherry extract. Mix well.
- Drain and chop maraschino cherries, then fold into the dough with a spatula.
- Add finely ground pecans to the dough and mix evenly.
- Gradually incorporate all-purpose flour, adding it ½ cup at a time until the dough is smooth.
- Gently fold in mini chocolate chips until just combined.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto lined baking sheets, spaced 2 inches apart, and bake for 15-17 minutes until lightly golden.
- Let cookies cool briefly on the baking sheet, then roll in powdered sugar before cooling completely.
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