Cherry Snowball Cookies

Imagine a winter scene encapsulated within a cookie; that’s what you’ll find in these Cherry Snowball Cookies. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family evenings, each bite combines buttery dough with the tangy sweetness of maraschino cherries, complemented by a hint of coconut and the satisfying crunch of walnuts. These cookies are not just delicious; they also evoke warm memories and feelings of joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll whip these up in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cherries, coconut, and walnuts creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a treat for yourself, these cookies fit right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the nuts or add other flavors to personalize your Cherry Snowball Cookies.
• Great Gift Idea: Pack them in a decorative box for a thoughtful gift!

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Spoon or cookie scoop
• Rolling pin (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl allows you to mix ingredients without any mess.
• Baking sheet: Ensures even baking and makes transferring cookies easy with parchment paper.
• Cookie scoop: Helps portion out uniform cookies for consistent baking.

Ingredients

For the 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

For the Cherries

• 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 and fluffy.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the flour, oats, coconut, walnuts, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined. Finally, gently fold in the chopped cherries ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart for even baking.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

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

Step 6: Roll in Sugar

After baking, roll the warm cookies in the remaining powdered sugar until they are fully coated. Allow them to cool slightly before enjoying!

These Cherry Snowball Cookies will surely become a favorite with their festive flavors and delightful textures. Enjoy!

How to Serve Cherry Snowball Cookies

Cherry Snowball Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. They make perfect companions for gatherings, festive holidays, or simply as a cozy snack at home.

With a Hot Beverage

• Enjoy these cookies with a steaming cup of tea or coffee. The warmth of the drink complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange Cherry Snowball Cookies on a platter with other cookies or desserts for an inviting dessert table. Their unique flavor adds variety and color.

Gift Packaging

• Consider packaging these cookies in decorative boxes or bags as thoughtful gifts. They are sure to bring joy to friends and family.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh fruit such as strawberries or sliced apples. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the cookies.

How to Perfect Cherry Snowball Cookies

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

• Use room temperature butter: This allows for better blending with sugar, resulting in a smoother dough.
• Chop cherries finely: Smaller pieces will distribute more evenly throughout the cookie, enhancing each bite’s flavor.
• Don’t skip chilling: If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps keep the cookies from spreading too much.
• Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperature for even cooking.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be lightly golden but not too brown.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Snowball Cookies

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

1. Freshly Brewed Coffee: A rich coffee enhances the sweet flavors of the cookies.
2. Herbal Tea: Light herbal teas provide a refreshing contrast that complements the cookie’s richness.
3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness effectively.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of ice cream pairs well with the crunchiness of the cookies.
5. Cheese Platter: Mild cheeses like brie offer a savory balance against the cookie’s sweetness.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light and wholesome side that complements dessert nicely.
7. Chocolate Mousse: This rich dessert can add an indulgent touch when served alongside lighter cookies like these.
8. Coconut Milk Pudding: A creamy pudding brings out coconut flavors in the cookies while providing a silky texture contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cherry Snowball Cookies, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure your cookies turn out perfectly delicious every time. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Using cold butter: Cold butter makes it difficult to cream with sugar properly. Always use softened butter for a smooth dough.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can alter the cookie’s consistency. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for accuracy.
• Skipping the cooling step: Letting cookies cool completely helps them set properly. Skipping this can result in a crumbly texture.
• Not spacing cookies correctly: Placing cookies too close together can cause them to merge while baking. Ensure you leave at least 2 inches of space between each cookie.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Freezing Cherry Snowball Cookies

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Place in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating Cherry Snowball Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Cherry Snowball Cookies, here are some common questions and answers.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just make sure to pit and chop them finely before adding them to the dough.

How do I store leftover Cherry Snowball Cookies?

Store your leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Can I customize my Cherry Snowball Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add different nuts or substitute coconut with other flavors like chocolate chips or dried fruits.

What is the best way to freeze Cherry Snowball Cookies?

For best results, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring layers are separated with parchment paper.

Why did my cookies spread too much while baking?

Too much butter or not enough flour can cause excessive spreading. Make sure to measure accurately and chill the dough if needed.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy with every bite. Their versatility allows you to customize them easily, whether by adding extra nuts or experimenting with different flavors. Try these delightful cookies today and enjoy their sweet charm!