Cherry Snowball Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie with the sweet surprise of a cherry hidden inside. These cookies are rolled in powdered sugar, giving them a festive, snowball-like appearance that’s perfect for winter celebrations. The contrast between the tender cookie and the juicy cherry makes each bite irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a holiday cookie exchange or as a sweet addition to your dessert table, Cherry Snowball Cookies are sure to become a favorite tradition.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 jar maraschino cherries, drained and dried
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla extract.
- Mix in Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
- Form the Cookies: Take a small piece of dough (about a tablespoon) and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a maraschino cherry in the center, then fold the dough around the cherry, rolling it into a ball. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set but not browned.
- Roll in Powdered Sugar: Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before rolling them in powdered sugar while they are still warm. For a more festive look, you can roll them again in powdered sugar once they are completely cool.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Cherry Snowball Cookies at room temperature and watch them disappear!
These Cherry Snowball Cookies are a perfect addition to your holiday baking, with their festive look and delicious taste making them a hit with everyone!
