Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful twist on traditional cookies, these Cherry Snowball Cookies are sure to steal the show! Bursting with flavor and featuring a creamy texture, they are perfect for any festive occasion or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day. With the sweet tanginess of maraschino cherries and a delicate coating of powdered sugar, each bite is a delightful surprise that melts in your mouth. Let’s bake some joy together!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for rolling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture!
- Add the vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
- Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and salt into the butter mixture, gently stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – we want our cookies soft and tender!
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and nuts, if you’re using them. The colorful cherries give a lovely burst of flavor, while the nuts add a delightful crunch.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Keep a close eye to avoid overbaking!
- Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before gently transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cookies are still warm, roll each one in powdered sugar until they are fully coated. This sugary exterior adds a beautiful finish and a delicious sweetness!
Notes or Tips
To enhance the cherry flavor, consider adding a splash of cherry juice or almond extract to the dough. If you’re nut-free, simply leave out the chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful nutless version. These cookies also freeze well; just pop them in an airtight container, and you can enjoy them later!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming butter and sugar, make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best results. This allows for better incorporation of air, which results in lighter cookies. Additionally, folding in the cherries and nuts gently helps maintain the delicate texture of the dough, ensuring every cookie is both flavorful and tender.
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries can be used, but you’ll need to ensure they are pitted and finely chopped. Keep in mind this may alter the flavor slightly as fresh cherries are less sweet.
How do I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully for longer storage!
Conclusion
Cherry Snowball Cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes with their lovely appearance. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, or simply to savor during a cozy evening at home, these cookies are sure to become a beloved addition to your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let the magic of baking take over—happy baking!