Prep Time: ~20 minutes
Bake Time: ~12–15 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Yield: ~24–30 cookies
Introduction
Cherry Snowball Cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies rolled in powdered sugar and studded with sweet dried cherries. With their snowy appearance and festive flavor, they’re perfect for holiday cookie trays, Christmas gatherings, or cozy winter baking.
Why These Cookies Are So Loved
These cookies are loved for their delicate texture and festive presentation. The powdered sugar coating creates a snowy finish, while dried cherries add bursts of fruity sweetness. Tender and lightly sweet, they’re a delightful twist on classic snowball cookies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup dried cherries, chopped
- Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
The Art of Cherry Snowball Cookies
Snowball cookies are all about a tender crumb and generous powdered sugar coating. Creaming the butter with powdered sugar gives a light texture, while folding in cherries (and optional nuts) adds flavor and interest. Rolling warm cookies in powdered sugar helps create a soft, snowy exterior.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
2. Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
Gradually add to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Fold in Cherries (and Nuts)
Gently fold in chopped dried cherries and nuts if using, distributing evenly.
4. Form Dough Balls
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, until edges are just set and bottoms are lightly golden.
6. Roll in Powdered Sugar
While cookies are warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar.
Let cool, then roll again for a snowy finish.
7. Cool & Serve
Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Tips for Best Results
- Use room-temperature butter for the best texture.
- Chop cherries finely so they’re easy to bite into.
- Roll cookies twice in powdered sugar for extra snowy effect.
- Chill dough briefly if too soft to handle.
Creative Variations
- Chocolate Cherry: add mini chocolate chips to the dough.
- Citrus Cherry: add orange zest for brightness.
- Nut-Free Option: omit nuts if preferred.
- Spiced Snowballs: add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: drizzle melted white chocolate over cooled cookies.
Storage & Freshness
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.
Conclusion
Cherry Snowball Cookies are tender, festive, and full of holiday charm. With a snowy sugar coating and bursts of cherry sweetness, they’re a perfect addition to any Christmas cookie collection
