Cherry Snowball Cookies

Imagine a winter scene encapsulated within a cookie; that’s what you’ll find in these Cherry Snowball Cookies. These delightful treats are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy family nights, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. The unique combination of buttery dough, tangy maraschino cherries, hints of coconut, and crunchy walnuts makes them truly special. Each bite evokes the warmth and joy of the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The tangy sweetness of cherries combined with coconut creates a mouthwatering taste.
• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal prep time, perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Occasions: Great for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or as a delightful treat any time of year.
• Shareable Treats: With 18 cookies in a batch, they are ideal for sharing with friends and family.
• Unique Texture: The combination of soft dough and crunchy walnuts provides a satisfying bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these Cherry Snowball Cookies, gather your tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking process and great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Spoon or cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl helps combine ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet ensures even baking and prevents sticking.
• Parchment paper: This non-stick surface makes for easy cookie removal and cleanup.
• Spoon or cookie scoop: Using the right tool helps you form uniform cookie shapes for even baking.

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. This step is crucial for achieving a light texture in your cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Fold in Cherries

Gently fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries to incorporate their sweet flavor throughout the dough.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Use a spoon to drop portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Ensure that each portion is spaced about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading during baking.

Step 6: Bake

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

Step 7: Coat in Sugar

After baking, roll each warm cookie in the remaining powdered sugar until they are fully coated. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and completes their snowball appearance!

How to Serve Cherry Snowball Cookies

Cherry Snowball Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these cookies can elevate any occasion.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee pairs beautifully with the sweet cherry and coconut notes.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoying these cookies with a creamy cup of hot chocolate creates a comforting experience.
• Herbal Tea: A light herbal tea complements the sweetness without overpowering it.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds brightness and balances the richness of the cookies.
• Brownies: Combining textures with fudgy brownies makes for an enticing dessert selection.
• Mini Cheesecakes: Serve these alongside mini cheesecakes for a delightful variety.

During Festive Gatherings

• Holiday Cookie Exchange: Bring these cookies to a cookie swap; their unique flavor will impress everyone.
• Gifts in a Jar: Layer the ingredients in a jar for an adorable gift that friends can bake themselves.

How to Perfect Cherry Snowball Cookies

To ensure your Cherry Snowball Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

• Use Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Chop Cherries Finely: Finely chopping the maraschino cherries helps distribute their flavor evenly throughout the dough.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on them in the oven; they should be slightly golden but not overly brown for optimal softness.
• Cool Before Coating: Allow cookies to cool slightly before rolling them in powdered sugar to prevent melting and clumping.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Snowball Cookies

Enjoying Cherry Snowball Cookies is even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the chewy cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with berries adds freshness and balances the cookie’s sweetness.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well, offering savory notes against the sweet flavors.
4. Nut Mix: A simple nut mix offers crunch and protein, enhancing the overall snack experience.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Dip cookie pieces in warm chocolate for an indulgent treat that kids will love.
6. Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: The crispness of apples and sweetness of caramel complement the rich cookie texture beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Cherry Snowball Cookies can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can ruin the fun. Here are pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold butter: Cold butter leads to uneven mixing. Always use softened butter for a smooth dough.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can cause cookies to spread too much while baking. Chill for at least 30 minutes if your dough is soft.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can alter the texture and flavor. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Overbaking the cookies: Baking them too long makes cookies dry. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they are just slightly golden.
• Ignoring ingredient substitutions: Substituting ingredients without considering their properties can yield poor results. Stick to the recommended substitutes for best outcomes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Snowball Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry Snowball Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Cherry Snowball Cookies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing cookies inside for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cherry Snowball Cookies that you might find helpful.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries in Cherry Snowball Cookies?

Fresh cherries can work, but they will change the texture and moisture content. Ensure they’re well-pitted and finely chopped if you choose this option.

How do I make these Cherry Snowball Cookies gluten-free?

You can replace regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. This should maintain similar results without compromising flavor.

Can I add chocolate chips to Cherry Snowball Cookies?

Yes! Adding chocolate chips can enhance sweetness and provide extra texture. Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate according to your preference.

What is the best way to store leftover Cherry Snowball Cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you prefer longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Snowball Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile, inviting customization with various mix-ins like nuts or chocolate. Their unique combination of flavors makes them perfect for any occasion, so why not give this delightful recipe a try? You’ll create lasting memories with every batch!