Cherry Snowball Cookies

Imagine a winter scene encapsulated within a cookie; that’s what you’ll find in these Cherry Snowball Cookies. Each bite evokes the charm of a snow globe with buttery dough that perfectly complements the tangy sweetness of maraschino cherries. Topped with a hint of coconut and the satisfying crunch of walnuts, these cookies are perfect for various occasions, from holiday gatherings to cozy family nights. Their unique flavor combination makes them a delightful treat everyone will cherish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The balance of sweet cherries and nutty walnuts creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or as a sweet gift for loved ones.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun recipe to make with kids, allowing them to enjoy the cherry chopping and cookie rolling!
• Beautiful Presentation: The snowy appearance makes these cookies visually appealing on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Cherry Snowball Cookies, gather your tools beforehand. This will ensure a smooth baking process, allowing you to focus on crafting these delicious treats.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Spoon or cookie scoop
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients smoothly without spills.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even baking and prevents warping during the process.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 ¼ c powdered sugar (divided)
• ½ c softened butter
• 1 c flour
• ¼ c instant oats
• ¼ c finely chopped sweetened coconut
• ¼ c finely chopped walnuts
• 1 pinch of salt
• 15 maraschino cherries (finely chopped)

How to Make Cherry Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a bowl, cream together 1/4 cup of powdered sugar and softened butter until the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the flour, instant oats, finely chopped coconut, walnuts, and a pinch of salt into the butter mixture.

Step 4: Fold in Cherries

Gently fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Shape Cookies

Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Place the cookies in the oven. Bake for approximately 18 minutes or until they turn slightly golden around the edges.

Step 7: Coat with Sugar

Once baked, roll each cookie in the remaining powdered sugar until they are fully coated before serving. Enjoy your delightful Cherry Snowball Cookies!

How to Serve Cherry Snowball Cookies

Cherry Snowball Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply indulging on a cozy afternoon, these cookies will surely impress.

With a Cup of Tea

• Pairing your cookies with a warm cup of tea can enhance their flavors. The subtle sweetness of the cookies complements the aromatic notes of most teas.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange Cherry Snowball Cookies on a dessert platter alongside other cookies and sweets. This colorful display is perfect for celebrations and gatherings.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve these cookies with a side of fresh fruit like strawberries or oranges. The fruity freshness can balance the richness of the cookies.

Gift Them

• Pack Cherry Snowball Cookies in decorative boxes to give as gifts. They make a thoughtful and tasty present for friends and family during the holiday season.

How to Perfect Cherry Snowball Cookies

Achieving the perfect batch of Cherry Snowball Cookies is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Use room temperature butter: This helps in creaming the butter and sugar effectively, resulting in a smoother dough.
• Chill the dough: If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to shape and helps maintain its form while baking.
• Don’t overmix: When adding in the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Check for doneness: Bake until they are slightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
• Coat generously with powdered sugar: Rolling them in powdered sugar right after baking adds an extra touch of sweetness and enhances their snowy appearance.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Snowball Cookies

When serving Cherry Snowball Cookies, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes that enhance their delightful flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture of the cookies.

2. Whipped Cream
   Light and fluffy whipped cream serves as a delightful topping that enhances each bite of cookie.

3. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing bowl of mixed fruit provides acidity and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

4. Chocolate Fondue
   Dip pieces of Cherry Snowball Cookies into warm chocolate fondue for an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress.

5. Coffee or Espresso
   A strong cup of coffee or espresso pairs nicely, cutting through the sweetness and adding depth to your tasting experience.

6. Cheese Plate
   Include a variety of cheeses like brie or goat cheese on your serving tray for an unexpected but delicious contrast to the sweet cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Cherry Snowball Cookies can be a delightful experience, but a few common pitfalls may arise. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Bold measurement inaccuracies: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the texture of your cookies. Always use precise measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Bold skipping chilling time: Not chilling the dough can lead to flat cookies. Allow the dough to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Bold overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make your cookies tough instead of tender. Mix just until ingredients are combined, especially after adding flour.
• Bold not spacing cookies properly: Placing cookies too close together can cause them to merge while baking. Ensure you leave at least 2 inches between each portion of dough.
• Bold ignoring oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can result in undercooked or burnt cookies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing Cherry Snowball Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Cherry Snowball Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes for optimal taste.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring it remains soft.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a covered pan over low heat for a couple of minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cherry Snowball Cookies that might help enhance your baking experience.

Can I substitute the maraschino cherries?

Yes, you can use dried cherries or even fresh cherries if you prefer a less sweet option.

How do I make these Cherry Snowball Cookies gluten-free?

Replace regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

What is the best way to store Cherry Snowball Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I add other nuts besides walnuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Snowball Cookies are not only delicious but also evoke warmth and joy during any season. Their buttery base mixed with sweet cherries makes them universally appealing. You can customize these cookies by adding different nuts or swapping out cherries for other fruits like cranberries or raisins. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful treat!