Irresistible Melt in Your Mouth Cherry Snowball Cookies
Cherry Snowball Cookies are the perfect combination of buttery sweetness and festive charm that will transform any ordinary day into a special occasion. Picture this: it’s a chilly December evening, and your kitchen fills with the warm aroma of butter and vanilla while delicate cookies bake to golden perfection.
These delightful treats, dusted with powdered sugar like fresh fallen snow, hide a sweet surprise – vibrant maraschino cherry pieces that burst with flavor in every bite.
There’s something magical about cookies that look like tiny snowballs, especially when they’re studded with jewel-toned cherries that peek through the snowy coating.
Whether you’re planning a holiday cookie exchange, preparing treats for unexpected guests, or simply craving something sweet and comforting, these cookies deliver both visual appeal and incredible taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Last Christmas, I discovered these cookies quite by accident when I was experimenting with leftover maraschino cherries from a cake project. What started as a “let’s see what happens” moment turned into my family’s new favorite cookie tradition. My grandmother, who’s notoriously picky about sweets, took one bite and declared them “better than the bakery cookies we used to buy downtown.”
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way it transforms basic pantry ingredients into something extraordinary. The tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture comes from the perfect ratio of butter to flour, while the cherries add pops of color and sweetness that make each bite feel like a little celebration.
Plus, they’re surprisingly quick to make – perfect for those moments when you need impressive cookies without spending hours in the kitchen. Discover more delightful baking recipes here to expand your holiday cookie repertoire.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delectable Cherry Snowball Cookies:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Butter, softened | 1 cup | Room temperature for easy mixing |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Sifted for best texture |
| Confectioners’ sugar | 1/2 cup | For the cookie dough |
| Maraschino cherries without stems | 6 ounces (1 jar) | Drained and halved |
| Additional confectioners’ sugar | As needed | For rolling the finished cookies |
The ingredient list is beautifully simple, yet each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor balance. Make sure your butter is properly softened – it should give slightly to pressure but not be melted. This ensures your cookies will have the right tender crumb. Find more quick and easy breakfast recipes here for additional inspiration to start your day sweetly.
Step-by-Step Directions
Creating these delightful Cherry Snowball Cookies is easier than you might think. Follow these detailed steps for perfect results every time:
Prepare your workspace: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Drain the maraschino cherries thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels, then cut each cherry in half.
Mix the dough: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. Gradually add the 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar and mix until well combined.
Add dry ingredients: Slowly incorporate the flour, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix, as this can make your cookies tough.
Fold in cherries: Gently fold the halved cherries into the dough, distributing them evenly throughout.
Shape the cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls using your hands or a small cookie scoop. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.
Final coating: While cookies are still warm, roll them in additional confectioners’ sugar. Let them cool completely, then roll in powdered sugar once more for that perfect snowball appearance.
Exact Timing to Make Cherry Snowball Cookies
Here’s your complete timeline for making these festive treats:
- Prep time: 15 minutes (including draining and cutting cherries)
- Mixing time: 8 minutes
- Shaping time: 10 minutes
- Baking time: 18-20 minutes per batch
- Cooling and coating time: 15 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes
This timing allows you to make about 36 cookies, perfect for sharing or storing for later enjoyment.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your Cherry Snowball Cookies helps you enjoy them as part of a balanced diet. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown per cookie (based on 36 cookies per batch):
| Nutrient | Amount per Cookie | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 95 | 5% |
| Total Fat | 5.2g | 7% |
| Saturated Fat | 3.2g | 16% |
| Trans Fat | 0g | 0% |
| Cholesterol | 14mg | 5% |
| Sodium | 38mg | 2% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12.1g | 4% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.3g | 1% |
| Total Sugars | 4.8g | – |
| Added Sugars | 4.2g | 8% |
| Protein | 1.1g | 2% |
| Vitamin C | 0.5mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 8mg | 1% |
| Iron | 0.4mg | 2% |
Nutritional data based on USDA food composition database and recipe analysis. Values may vary slightly depending on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods.
Healthier Alternatives
You can modify your Cherry Snowball Cookies to better suit various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Here are some practical substitutions:
| Original Ingredient | Healthier Alternative | Benefits | Taste Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Whole wheat pastry flour | Higher fiber, more nutrients | Slightly nuttier flavor, denser texture |
| Butter | Coconut oil (solid) or vegan butter | Lower saturated fat, dairy-free option | Subtle coconut flavor, similar texture |
| Confectioners’ sugar | Powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener | Reduced calories, diabetic-friendly | Nearly identical sweetness |
| Maraschino cherries | Fresh cranberries (chopped) or dried cherries | No artificial colors, lower sugar | More tart flavor, natural sweetness |
| Regular butter | Grass-fed butter | Higher omega-3 fatty acids | Richer, more complex flavor |
Explore more quick & easy recipes here for additional wholesome meal ideas that complement your baking adventures.
For gluten-free options, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Those following a keto diet can use almond flour (1½ cups) combined with ¼ cup coconut flour for a low-carb version.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry Snowball Cookies shine in various settings and pair beautifully with complementary flavors. Holiday gatherings become extra special when you arrange these cookies on festive platters alongside hot cocoa, spiced cider, or coffee – the powdered sugar coating creates an elegant presentation that guests always admire.
Gift-giving opportunities abound with these cookies, as they travel well when packed in decorative tins or clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon. Their photogenic appearance makes them perfect for cookie exchanges, teacher gifts, or welcoming new neighbors.
Everyday indulgences are elevated when you serve these cookies with vanilla ice cream for an impromptu dessert, or pack them in lunch boxes for a sweet midday surprise that both kids and adults will treasure.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the dough is the most frequent error that leads to tough, dense cookies instead of the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture you want. Mix just until the flour is incorporated – the dough should look slightly shaggy rather than completely smooth.
Skipping the cherry preparation step will result in soggy cookies and uneven baking. Always drain the maraschino cherries thoroughly and pat them completely dry with paper towels before cutting and adding to your dough.
Rolling cookies in powdered sugar only once misses the signature snowball appearance that makes these cookies so appealing. The first coating while warm helps the sugar adhere, while the second coating after cooling creates that perfect snowy finish.
Storing Tips
Room temperature storage works best for maintaining the cookies’ tender texture – place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers, and they’ll stay fresh for up to one week. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can make them hard and alter their delicate crumb.
Freezing capabilities make Cherry Snowball Cookies perfect for advance preparation. Store baked and cooled cookies (before the final powdered sugar coating) in freezer bags for up to three months, then thaw and dust with fresh powdered sugar before serving.
Powdered sugar touch-ups may be necessary before serving stored cookies, as the coating can absorb into the cookie over time. Simply roll them in fresh confectioners’ sugar to restore that beautiful snowball appearance.
FAQs
Can I make Cherry Snowball Cookies ahead of time for parties?
Absolutely! These cookies actually improve in flavor after a day or two of storage. Bake them completely, apply the first coating of powdered sugar, then store in airtight containers. Add the final dusting of powdered sugar just before serving to ensure they look picture-perfect for your event.
What’s the best way to prevent Cherry Snowball Cookies from spreading too much during baking?
Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill the shaped dough balls for 15 minutes before baking if your kitchen is particularly warm. Also, make sure your baking sheets aren’t too hot from previous batches – cool sheets help cookies maintain their shape better.
Can I substitute fresh cherries for maraschino cherries in Cherry Snowball Cookies?
While maraschino cherries are traditional, you can use fresh cherries that have been pitted, chopped, and lightly tossed with a tablespoon of flour to prevent sinking. However, fresh cherries will add more moisture to the dough, so you may need to add an extra 2-3 tablespoons of flour to achieve the right consistency.
How do I know when my Cherry Snowball Cookies are perfectly baked?
Look for lightly golden bottoms while the tops remain pale – this usually takes 18-20 minutes at 325°F. The cookies should feel set but still soft to the touch. They’ll continue cooking slightly on the hot pan after removal from the oven, so don’t overbake them or they’ll become dry.
Cherry Snowball Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 36 cookies 1x
Description
These Irresistible Cherry Snowball Cookies are buttery, delicate, and filled with sweet maraschino cherries that make every bite a festive delight. Soft and melt-in-your-mouth, they’re rolled in snowy powdered sugar for a beautiful finish. Perfect for holiday cookie exchanges or anytime you crave a quick, easy baking recipe that looks as good as it tastes. A must-try for anyone who loves classic cookie recipes made with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar (for dough)
- 6 ounces maraschino cherries without stems, drained and halved
- Additional confectioners’ sugar, for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Drain and pat dry maraschino cherries, then cut each in half.
- In a large bowl, cream softened butter until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Add 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar and beat until combined.
- Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
- Gently fold halved cherries into the dough until evenly distributed.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on baking sheets.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, until bottoms are lightly golden but tops remain pale.
- While warm, roll cookies in confectioners’ sugar. Cool completely, then roll again for a snowy finish.
Notes
Ensure cherries are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the dough. For an extra touch, add a splash of almond extract to the dough for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: recipes cookies, recipes baking, recipes dessert, recipes easy
