Cherry Snowball Cookies are delightful bite-sized treats that melt in your mouth with every bite. These cookies feature a buttery, crumbly texture, with a sweet maraschino cherry hidden inside, adding a burst of flavor and a touch of surprise. Rolled in powdered sugar, they resemble little snowballs, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a special treat. The combination of the tender cookie and the juicy cherry center creates a delightful contrast, making these cookies as enjoyable to eat as they are to look at. Simple yet elegant, Cherry Snowball Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your cookie repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 24-30 maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. If using, fold in the finely chopped nuts.
- Prepare the Cookies:
- Take a tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a maraschino cherry in the center and wrap the dough around it, rolling it into a ball to completely encase the cherry.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden (the tops should remain pale).
- Roll in Powdered Sugar:
- Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet, then roll them in powdered sugar while they are still warm. Once they have cooled completely, roll them again in powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
- Serve:
- Serve the Cherry Snowball Cookies at room temperature and enjoy the delightful surprise of the cherry center in each bite.
Enjoy your Cherry Snowball Cookies, a festive and charming treat that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends!
