Cherry Snowball Cookies

Imagine a winter scene encapsulated within a cookie; that’s what you’ll find in these Cherry Snowball Cookies. Each bite is like experiencing a snow globe with the buttery dough complementing the tangy sweetness of maraschino cherries, all wrapped in a subtle hint of coconut and the satisfying crunch of walnuts. These delightful cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy afternoons, or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these cookies can be whipped up quickly, making them perfect for last-minute baking.
• Delicious Flavor Combination – The blend of cherries, coconut, and walnuts creates an irresistible taste that will please everyone.
• Versatile Treats – Great for any occasion! Whether it’s a festive celebration or a casual get-together, these cookies are sure to impress.
• Perfectly Sweet – The balance of sweetness from powdered sugar and the tartness of cherries makes these cookies delightful without being overly sugary.
• Beautiful Presentation – Coated in powdered sugar, these cookies look stunning on any dessert table or cookie platter.

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect Cherry Snowball Cookies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment not only makes the process smoother but also enhances your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups
• Spoon for portioning

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl – A sturdy mixing bowl helps combine ingredients evenly without spilling.
• Baking sheet – Using a flat baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.
• Parchment paper – This non-stick surface keeps your cookies from sticking to the pan and makes for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 ¼ c powdered sugar (divided)
• ½ c softened butter
• 1 c flour
• ¼ c instant oats

For the Flavor and Texture

• ¼ c finely chopped sweetened coconut
• ¼ c finely chopped walnuts
• 1 pinch of salt

For the Cherry Burst

• 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 for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a bowl, cream together 1/4 cup of powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth. This will create a light and fluffy mixture that forms the base of your cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add flour, instant oats, chopped coconut, chopped walnuts, and a pinch of salt into the bowl. Mix until just combined.

Step 4: Fold in Cherries

Gently fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep those cherry pieces intact for bursts of flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Portion the Dough

Use a spoon to drop portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for spreading while baking.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place the cookies in the oven and bake for around 18 minutes or until they turn slightly golden on the edges. Keep an eye on them—oven times may vary!

Step 7: Coat with Sugar

After baking, roll each cookie in the remaining powdered sugar until fully coated. This gives them their signature snowball look!

Enjoy your homemade Cherry Snowball Cookies!

How to Serve Cherry Snowball Cookies

Cherry Snowball Cookies are delightful treats that can bring joy to any gathering. Their unique flavor and texture make them perfect for various occasions.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Enjoy with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a delightful contrast.
• Hot Chocolate: Pairing with rich hot chocolate elevates the sweetness and adds warmth.
• Tea: A soothing herbal tea complements the cookies’ flavors beautifully.

As a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Desserts: Include these cookies on a platter with assorted mini desserts for variety.
• Fruit Arrangement: Serve alongside fresh fruits like strawberries or oranges to balance the sweetness.

For Festive Occasions

• Holiday Parties: These cookies stand out on holiday tables, adding color and charm.
• Gift Giving: Package them in decorative boxes as thoughtful homemade gifts.

How to Perfect Cherry Snowball Cookies

To make your Cherry Snowball Cookies even better, follow these simple tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh maraschino cherries for the best flavor.
• Chill the Dough: For firmer cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies; remove them when they are just slightly golden.
• Roll in Sugar While Warm: Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while warm helps create a lovely coating.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Snowball Cookies

Cherry Snowball Cookies can be paired with delicious side dishes to enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great ideas:

1. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like cream cheese or ricotta for a creamy contrast.
3. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a light accompaniment.
4. Ice Cream – Serve with vanilla or coconut ice cream for an indulgent treat.
5. Nut Mix – A blend of salty nuts provides a crunchy texture that pairs well with the cookies.
6. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels – The salty-sweet combination complements the cherry flavors perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cherry Snowball Cookies, it’s essential to avoid some common pitfalls to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Using cold butter: Cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the creaming step: If you don’t cream the butter and sugar well, your cookies might lack the desired sweetness and texture. Take your time to mix until smooth.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can affect the consistency. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts.
• Overbaking: Leaving the cookies in too long can make them dry. Keep an eye on them, and remove them as soon as they start turning golden.
• Ignoring cooling time: Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet can cause them to continue cooking. Transfer them to a wire rack after a few minutes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Snowball Cookies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry Snowball Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cherry Snowball Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet for about 2-3 minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Cherry Snowball Cookies that may help you while preparing this delightful treat.

What are Cherry Snowball Cookies?

Cherry Snowball Cookies are sweet, buttery cookies made with maraschino cherries, coconut, and walnuts, rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy finish.

Can I customize my Cherry Snowball Cookies?

Yes! You can add different nuts or replace cherries with other fruits like cranberries or blueberries for a unique twist.

How do I make Cherry Snowball Cookies gluten-free?

To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum for better texture.

How long do Cherry Snowball Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they last up to one week in the refrigerator or up to three months when frozen.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

While maraschino cherries provide sweetness and moisture, you can use fresh cherries; just chop them finely and adjust sugar levels if necessary.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Snowball Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile treats perfect for any occasion. Their sweet and tangy flavor combined with the crunch of nuts makes them irresistible. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients or add-ins to create your version of these delightful cookies!