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 the 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 fireplace, or simply as a delightful treat to share with friends. Their unique flavor combination and texture make them a standout addition to any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cherries, coconut, and walnuts creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or an afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Great for Sharing: With 18 cookies per batch, they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends.
• Customizable: Feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cherry Snowball Cookies successfully, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. Having the right tools simplifies the process and enhances your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Measuring cups
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the cookies, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup quick and easy.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spills.

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 the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together 1/4 cup of powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, helping the cookies rise.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the flour, oats, coconut, walnuts, and a pinch of salt into the creamed mixture. Mix until just combined.

Step 4: Fold in Cherries

Gently fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries. This will ensure an even distribution throughout your cookie dough.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Use a spoon to drop portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for spreading during baking.

Step 6: Bake

Place the cookies in the oven and bake for around 18 minutes or until they turn slightly golden. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid over-baking.

Step 7: Roll in Sugar

After baking, roll each cookie in the remaining powdered sugar until fully coated. This gives them their signature snowball appearance!

Enjoy your delicious Cherry Snowball Cookies fresh from the oven or store them in an airtight container for later!

How to Serve Cherry Snowball Cookies

Cherry Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that can brighten up any gathering or occasion. They pair wonderfully with various beverages and can be served in creative ways to enhance their appeal.

With Coffee

• Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee. The rich, buttery flavor of the cookies complements the boldness of the coffee perfectly.

As Dessert Platter

• Arrange Cherry Snowball Cookies on a festive dessert platter. Mix them with other cookies for an inviting holiday spread that looks as good as it tastes.

With Ice Cream

• Serve your cookies with a scoop of your favorite vanilla or coconut ice cream. The cold creaminess balances the cookie’s warmth and adds a delightful texture contrast.

For Gift Giving

• Package these cookies in decorative boxes or jars for a thoughtful homemade gift. They make for a sweet gesture during holidays or special occasions.

How to Perfect Cherry Snowball Cookies

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

• Use room temperature butter: This helps create a smooth dough and ensures even mixing with the other ingredients.
• Chop cherries finely: Smaller pieces distribute more evenly throughout the dough, enhancing each bite’s flavor.
• Measure flour accurately: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use a spoon to fill your measuring cup, then level it off.
• Don’t skip chilling: If you find the dough too soft, chilling it for 15-30 minutes makes it easier to handle and shape.
• Watch baking time closely: Ovens may vary in temperature, so check for doneness slightly before the recommended time to avoid over-baking.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Snowball Cookies

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

1. Fruit Salad
   A mix of fresh fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, providing balance.

2. Cheese Board
   Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda on a cheese board. The creaminess complements the cookies’ texture beautifully.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side dish that pairs well with the indulgent cookies.

4. Chocolate Fondue
   Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate fondue for an extra decadent treat that’s fun to share.

5. Nut Mix
   A simple bowl of mixed nuts offers a crunchy element that contrasts nicely with the softness of the cookies.

6. Herbal Tea
   Serve with chamomile or peppermint tea for a soothing beverage option that enhances the cookie’s flavors without overpowering them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cherry Snowball Cookies can be delightful, but a few common mistakes can hinder your cookie-making journey.

• Bold Measurements: Always double-check your measurements. Using too much flour or sugar can change the texture and taste of your cookies.
• Bold Chopping Technique: If cherries are not chopped finely enough, they may not mix well into the dough. Ensure they are small to distribute evenly.
• Bold Overmixing Dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a tender bite.
• Bold Cookie Spacing: Placing cookies too close together on the baking sheet can cause them to stick. Leave at least 2 inches between each cookie.
• Bold Cooling Time: Skipping the cooling time before rolling in sugar can result in a sticky mess. Allow cookies to cool slightly for easier coating.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Snowball Cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cherry Snowball Cookies

• Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag for best results.

Reheating Cherry Snowball Cookies

• Bold Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Bold Stovetop: Place cookies on a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Using fresh cherries is possible, but you should chop and pit them first. They will yield less moisture than maraschino cherries, so you may need to adjust other ingredients.

How do I make Cherry Snowball Cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Cherry Snowball Cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that other ingredients are also gluten-free certified.

How long do Cherry Snowball Cookies last?

Cherry Snowball Cookies will stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Refrigeration extends shelf life slightly.

Can I add nuts other than walnuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds to customize the flavor profile of your Cherry Snowball Cookies.

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

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. This helps maintain their texture and prevents sticking.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Snowball Cookies are not just delicious; they evoke warmth and comfort with every bite. This versatile recipe allows you to adjust flavors or add different nuts as per your liking. Don’t hesitate—try making these delightful treats today!