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 buttery dough complementing the tangy sweetness of maraschino cherries, all wrapped in a subtle hint of coconut and the satisfying crunch of walnuts. These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy evenings by the fire, or simply as a delightful treat any day of the year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique Flavor: The combination of sweet cherries, coconut, and nuts creates a flavor profile that is both nostalgic and refreshing.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these cookies can be whipped up quickly for spontaneous cravings.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch for family gatherings, potlucks, or gift them in decorative boxes to loved ones.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them with coffee in the morning or as an afternoon snack. They fit perfectly into any occasion!
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve kids in the baking process by letting them help mix and shape the cookies.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing without spilling ingredients.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents warping during baking.
• Parchment paper: It prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Cookie 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 prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

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 to drop portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake

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

Step 7: Coat with Sugar

After baking, roll each cookie in the remaining powdered sugar until they are fully coated. Allow them to cool before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Cherry Snowball Cookies!

How to Serve Cherry Snowball Cookies

Cherry Snowball Cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy afternoon treat. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Cup of Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of herbal tea. The soothing flavors of tea complement the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a beautiful dessert platter alongside other baked goods. This creates an inviting display that will impress your guests.

As Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons. These make for charming party favors that your guests can take home.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve the cookies alongside a selection of fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries. The fruity contrast adds freshness and balance to the sweetness.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Present these cookies during holiday gatherings as a festive treat. Their snowy appearance adds to the seasonal charm.

How to Perfect Cherry Snowball Cookies

To ensure your Cherry Snowball Cookies turn out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter blends more easily with sugar, creating a smoother dough.
• Chop Cherries Finely: Smaller pieces of cherries distribute more evenly in the dough, enhancing each bite’s flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in ingredients to maintain a tender texture. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for consistent results.
• Cool Before Rolling: Allow cookies to cool slightly before rolling in powdered sugar for better adherence.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Snowball Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Cherry Snowball Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
2. Fruit Salad – A light and refreshing fruit salad provides a bright contrast, making it an excellent side option.
3. Hot Chocolate – Warm mugs of hot chocolate create a cozy pairing, especially during colder months.
4. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses balances the sweetness and offers variety on your dessert table.
5. Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and berries adds texture and nutrition alongside your cookies.
6. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries – These decadent treats add an elegant touch, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
7. Nutty Granola Bars – Homemade granola bars provide a crunchy texture that pairs well with soft cookies.
8. Chia Seed Pudding – A light and healthy pudding can be served as a refreshing side dish that contrasts nicely with the cookie’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating Cherry Snowball Cookies is a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes can make your baking even better.

• Bold ingredient measurements: Always double-check your ingredient quantities. Using too much or too little of any ingredient can lead to cookies that are too dry or too soft.
• Bold overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined to maintain a tender texture.
• Bold incorrect baking time: Baking for too long can burn your cookies. Keep an eye on them and check for a slight golden color at the edges for perfect results.
• Bold not chilling the dough: Skipping this step may lead to spreading during baking. Chill the dough briefly if you notice it’s too soft.
• Bold omitting the nuts: The walnuts add great flavor and texture. If allergies are a concern, consider replacing them with seeds or simply omitting them.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• • Container: Use a plastic or glass container with a tight seal.

Freezing Cherry Snowball Cookies

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
• • Container: Place in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating Cherry Snowball Cookies

• • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes for freshly baked taste.
• • Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for 10-15 seconds for quick enjoyment.
• • Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 1 minute, flipping carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cherry Snowball Cookies?

Cherry Snowball Cookies are soft, buttery treats featuring maraschino cherries, coconut, and walnuts, rolled in powdered sugar.

How do I make Cherry Snowball Cookies healthier?

You can substitute some butter with applesauce or use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added nutrition.

Can I freeze Cherry Snowball Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze these cookies! Just ensure they are stored properly in an airtight container and separated by parchment paper.

What variations can I try with Cherry Snowball Cookies?

Feel free to customize by adding different nuts or dried fruits. You could also experiment by using different flavored extracts!

How do I ensure my cookies don’t spread?

Chill the dough before baking to help maintain shape and prevent excess spreading during baking.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Snowball Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their unique combination of flavors makes them perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize these cookies with your favorite nuts or extracts to make them truly your own!