SPREAD LOVE

Cherry Snowball Cookies

Baking isn’t just about creating tasty treats; it’s about crafting memories and sharing joy with loved ones. One delightful recipe that embodies this spirit is Cherry Snowball Cookies. These bite-sized rounds, adorned with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar, invite you to indulge in a world of flavor while bringing warmth and nostalgia to your home. With a perfect blend of nutty pecans, tart cherries, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, they are sure to become a favorite in your cookie repertoire.

Why Make This Recipe

The combination of dried tart cherries and nuts provides a unique taste that sets these cookies apart from traditional options.
The snowball effect, created by rolling the warm cookies in sugar, gives them a sweet finish that’s utterly irresistible.
These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, holiday festivities, or simply enjoying with your favorite cup of tea.

How to Make Cherry Snowball Cookies

Creating your very own Cherry Snowball Cookies is easier than you may think. Follow this simple and rewarding guide to treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly special.

Prepare Ingredients
- Start by ensuring that your butter is properly softened. Sifting your flour can make a difference in the texture of your cookies. Finely chop the dried cherries as well as the pecans or walnuts. Having the extracts and sugar measured and ready will make the process smoother.
Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, take your softened butter and beat it until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Next, gradually add in ½ cup of confectioners’ sugar and continue mixing until it’s creamy. Don’t forget to scrape down the bowl to make sure everything is well combined.
Incorporate Extracts
- Add the vanilla and almond extracts to the mix. Keeping the mixer on low speed, beat everything together until just combined for a beautifully fragrant base.
Combine Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together your sifted all-purpose flour and salt. This ensures even distribution of the salt and helps your flour to remain light, resulting in a tender cookie.
Gradually Add Dry to Wet
- With your mixer on its lowest speed, slowly incorporate your dry mixture into the butter mixture. Do this one third at a time, mixing just until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender and soft.
Fold in Cherries and Nuts
- Once the dough is ready, remove the bowl from the mixer. Gently fold in the finely chopped dried cherries and nuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The dough will be firm, but that’s just perfect for shaping later.
Chill Dough (Optional)
- If you prefer a cookie with deeper flavors and easier handling, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Preheat Oven and Prepare Sheets
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy release after baking.
Shape Cookies
- Using approximately 1 tablespoon portions of dough, roll them into neat, compact balls. Place each ball about an inch apart on the prepared baking sheets to allow for spreading as they bake.
Bake Cookies
- Bake the cookies for around 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they become lightly golden around the edges and are set in the center. It’s important not to overbake these delicate gems.
Cool Slightly
- After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire cooling rack for an additional 5-10 minutes.
First Coating (While Warm)
- Pour 1½ cups of confectioners’ sugar into a shallow dish. While the cookies are still warm, gently roll them one at a time in the sugar until they are fully coated. This initial coating adds a sweetness that complements the tangy cherries beautifully.
Cool Completely
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on the wire rack for 30 minutes to 1 hour, which will give them the perfect texture for the second sugar coating.
Second Coating (For "Snow" Effect)
- Once your cookies are fully cooled, give them a generous second roll in confectioners’ sugar. This step is essential for that pristine, snowy finish that makes these cookies so visually appealing.

Storage Tips for Cherry Snowball Cookies

To keep your Cherry Snowball Cookies as delightful as the day they were baked, consider the following storage recommendations:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For extended freshness, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks, ensuring you keep them in a well-sealed container to avoid any moisture.
If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Serving Suggestions for Cherry Snowball Cookies

Cherry Snowball Cookies are versatile and pair well with various accompaniments. Consider these serving suggestions to elevate your experience:

Tea Time Delight: Serve these cookies alongside a steaming cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea. The subtle hints of almond and cherry complement the floral notes in the tea beautifully.
Coffee Companion: For coffee lovers, these cookies make a perfect pair with a rich espresso or a velvety cappuccino.
Festive Platter: Present them on a decorative platter mixed with other holiday cookies for a delightful spread during festivities.
Sweet Treat for Any Gathering: Whether for birthdays, anniversaries, or simple get-togethers, these cookies will delight guests of all ages.
Gift-Worthy: Wrap a few in cellophane and tie with a ribbon to give as a charming homemade gift.

Tips to Make Cherry Snowball Cookies

Do not skip the chilling step if possible, as it greatly aids in flavor melding and makes the dough easier to handle.
Use finely chopped nuts; larger pieces can disrupt the texture and consistency of the cookies.
Experiment with mixing different nuts; hazelnuts or pistachios could offer intriguing flavor profiles.

Variations or Substitutions

If you wish to switch things up a bit, consider these variations:

Nut-Free Version: For those with nut allergies, you can omit the nuts entirely. The cookies will still be deliciously sweet and buttery.
Fruit Alternatives: If tart cherries aren’t your preference, consider using dried cranberries or even chopped apricots for a different fruity twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time, chill it, and even freeze it. Just thaw when you’re ready to bake.

Q: Can I use sweetened dried cherries?
A: You can certainly use sweetened dried cherries, but it may change the overall sweetness of the cookies. Adjust the sugar accordingly to taste.

Q: How do I store these cookies after baking?

Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks, well-sealed.

With their charming appearance and delightful flavors, Cherry Snowball Cookies are more than just a treat; they are a celebration of food, family, and tradition. As you make these cookies, you are creating sweet moments that intertwine with the joy of baking, sharing, and indulging. Whether for yourself or loved ones, every bite is a little bite of happiness. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this delightful journey of flavors!