Cherry Snowball Cookies Recipe

If you’re searching for a delightful treat that feels like a cozy hug in cookie form, look no further than these irresistible Cherry Snowball Cookies. Soft, buttery, and dusted generously with confectioners’ sugar, each bite bursts with the delicate sweetness of finely chopped maraschino cherries and the satisfying crunch of walnuts and oats. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a cookie that’s as charming in appearance as it is utterly scrumptious. Cherry Snowball Cookies are perfect for sharing with friends, gifting during the holidays, or simply keeping all to yourself when that cookie craving strikes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Cherry Snowball Cookies is how straightforward ingredients come together harmoniously to create such a rich flavor and texture profile. Each component plays its part, from the creamy butter that lends tenderness to the coconut flakes that provide a subtle tropical hint.

• Confectioners’ sugar (1 ¼ cups, divided): This sugar not only sweetens but gives the cookies their signature snowy coating.
• Butter (½ cup, softened): Ensures the cookies remain moist and tender with a delicate richness.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): The base ingredient that holds everything together while providing structure.
• Quick cooking oats (¼ cup): Adds a gentle chewiness and heartiness to the cookie texture.
• Sweetened coconut, finely chopped (¼ cup): Brings a subtle sweetness and tropical flair that balances the cherry flavors.
• Walnuts, finely chopped (¼ cup): Offers a delightful crunch and a nutty depth of flavor.
• Salt (a pinch): Enhances all the sweetness and rounds out the flavors perfectly.
• Maraschino cherries, finely chopped (15 cherries): The star ingredient—these cherries infuse the dough with bursts of fruity sweetness and a beautiful blush color.

How to Make Cherry Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready will make the process seamless and enjoyable.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat ¼ cup of the confectioners’ sugar together with the softened butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is key because it creates the luscious base that helps your cookies stay tender and melt-in-your-mouth.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients Gradually

Next, add the flour and beat just briefly to combine, about five seconds. Follow that by adding quick cooking oats, then coconut flakes, and walnuts one after the other, beating briefly after each addition. This layering technique ensures even distribution and perfect texture.

Step 4: Incorporate Salt and Cherries

Add a pinch of salt and beat once more to balance sweetness. Then, fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries until the dough comes together and takes on a lovely light pink hue. The cherries not only add flavor but give these Cherry Snowball Cookies their signature charm.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Drop spoonfuls of dough spaced about two inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 minutes or until the edges gently turn golden. This brief baking time keeps cookies soft inside while providing just enough crispness around the edges.

Step 6: Sugar Coat the Cookies

While the cookies are still warm, pour the remaining 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar into a shallow dish. Roll each cookie in the sugar once, then for that snowy finish, roll them again. This double coating creates the delicate “snowball” exterior these Cherry Snowball Cookies are famous for.

How to Serve Cherry Snowball Cookies

Garnishes

A simple dusting of extra confectioners’ sugar right before serving can refresh the look and add an extra touch of sweetness. For a festive occasion, sprinkle a few tiny dried cherries or finely chopped pistachios on top for a pop of color and crunch.

Side Dishes

Cherry Snowball Cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea, rich coffee, or a glass of cold milk. Their slightly chewy texture and sweet, nutty flavor make them a perfect companion for any afternoon break or dessert platter.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting, arrange Cherry Snowball Cookies in a decorative tin lined with parchment paper and tie it with a ribbon. For parties, serve them on a festive plate nestled alongside fresh seasonal fruit or alongside a platter of assorted nuts to complement the cookie flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Cherry Snowball Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to 5 days, making them an ideal cookie to bake in advance for gatherings.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies by placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container after the sugar coating has hardened. They freeze wonderfully for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature to enjoy that fresh-baked flavor anytime you want.

Reheating

If you prefer your Cherry Snowball Cookies warm, pop a few in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This revives their soft texture and enhances the buttery, cherry-sweet aroma that makes these cookies so dreamy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries have a much higher water content and will change the texture of the dough, making it soggy. Maraschino cherries are preferred for their sweetness and firmness, which helps maintain the cookie’s structure and signature flavor.

What can I substitute for walnuts if I have a nut allergy?

Pepitas (pumpkin seeds) or sunflower seeds work well to add crunch without nuts. Alternatively, you can simply omit nuts and add a bit more oats or coconut to maintain texture.

Do the oats change the texture significantly?

Yes, quick cooking oats add a gentle chewiness and heartiness to the cookies that complement the softness from the butter and cherries. They also help balance the sweetness and keep the cookies from feeling too dense.

How do I prevent the sugar coating from melting off?

Make sure the cookies have cooled slightly but are still warm before rolling them in confectioners’ sugar. Rolling while warm allows the sugar to stick, but too hot or too cold can cause melting or poor adhesion.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that suits baking. Ensure the oats you use are certified gluten-free as well. This way, you keep the same texture and taste without gluten.

Final Thoughts

Baking Cherry Snowball Cookies is such a joyful experience because it combines simple, accessible ingredients with a spectacular outcome that everyone will adore. Whether you’re introducing these treats to your weekly bake or sharing them at a special event, they bring warmth and happiness with each bite. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover just how wonderfully satisfying these Cherry Snowball Cookies can be!

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