Cherry Snowball Cookies

Name: Cherry Snowball Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for coating; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Delight in the festive flavors of Cherry Snowball Cookies, a perfect treat for your holiday gatherings. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are packed with sweet cherries and coated in powdered sugar for a snowy finish. Easy to make and beautiful on any cookie platter, they are sure to please family and friends alike this Christmas season.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-20T07:41:41.772Z

Cherry Snowball Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday cookie tray. Their sweet, fruity flavor combined with a rich buttery texture will have everyone asking for the recipe!

The Perfect Holiday Cookie

Cherry Snowball Cookies are the epitome of festive baking. Their rich buttery flavor combined with the sweetness of maraschino cherries creates a unique taste that captures the essence of the holiday season. These cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also infuse your gatherings with warmth and cheer. Whether served at a holiday party or enjoyed with a cup of cocoa by the fire, these treats are sure to become a favorite.

What sets these cookies apart is their delightful texture. They are soft and melt in your mouth, making each bite a little piece of heaven. The contrast of the powdered sugar coating adds a delightful sweetness that completes the overall experience. They also have a visually appealing snowy appearance, making them a stunning addition to any cookie platter, perfect for impressing guests and family alike.

Easy to Make and Adapt

One of the best aspects of Cherry Snowball Cookies is how simple they are to prepare. With straightforward steps and easily accessible ingredients, even novice bakers can whip up a batch without much hassle. This makes them not only a great recipe for the holidays but also an excellent option for baking with kids. Watching the dough come together and rolling the cookies into balls can be a fun and festive family activity.

Additionally, this recipe can easily be adapted to cater to personal preferences. If cherries aren’t to your taste, consider substituting with different dried fruits, such as cranberries or even chocolate chips. You can also experiment with the type of nuts you incorporate, or you might choose to add a hint of almond or orange zest for an extra burst of flavor. The versatility of these cookies makes them suitable for various palates.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for coating
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Vanilla

Mix in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add it to the butter mixture until combined.

Fold in Cherries

Gently fold in the chopped cherries.

Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of the dough and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool.

Coat in Powdered Sugar

Once cooled, roll the cookies in the remaining powdered sugar.

Storage Tips

To keep your Cherry Snowball Cookies fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. After the cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will retain their soft texture and flavor for about a week. If you want to keep them for an extended period, consider placing them in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to two weeks.

For even longer storage, you can freeze Cherry Snowball Cookies. Just make sure they are securely wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature, and they'll taste as fresh as the day they were baked!

Serving Suggestions

Cherry Snowball Cookies make a delightful presentation at holiday gatherings or potlucks. Pair them with a festive platter that includes other cookies, candies, and seasonal treats for a beautiful spread. They also pair wonderfully with beverages—consider serving them alongside hot chocolate, eggnog, or a warm cup of spiced tea to enhance the festive spirit.

For an added touch, you can garnish your serving plate with fresh cherries or mint leaves to accentuate the festive theme. This not only elevates the aesthetics but also brings a burst of color and freshness that complements the sweetness of the cookies, making them even more inviting for your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

Yes, but make sure to chop and properly drain fresh cherries to avoid excess moisture.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.