Last Updated on October 21, 2025 by recipeinspire

Cherry Snowball Cookies: 7 Tips for Perfect Holiday Treats

Are you craving the perfect holiday treat that not only elevates your festive gatherings but also delights your taste buds? What if I told you that the secret to mastering the art of Cherry Snowball Cookies lies in just seven simple tips? These delectable cookies, adorned with cherries and a dusting of powdered sugar, are a holiday staple that guests will adore. Dive into our data-driven guide and equip yourself with expert advice that guarantees success!

Ingredients List

To make your scrumptious Cherry Snowball Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (for a gluten-free version, use almond flour)
• 1/2 cup chopped cherries (fresh or dried, depending on availability)
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (substitutable with vanilla extract)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Additional powdered sugar for dusting

This ingredient list ensures a balance of flavors, bringing a delightful richness to your cookies while maintaining an appealing texture.

Timing

Get ready to indulge in a delightful cookie experience! Here’s the breakdown of the time you’ll need:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 to 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 to 60 minutes

This timing is roughly 20% less than the average cookie recipe, allowing you to focus on the joy of baking while still getting delicious results!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, making your cookies light and tender.

Step 2: Add the Extract

Stir in the almond extract until fully incorporated into the mixture. This not only adds flavor but enhances the overall aroma of your cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter and sugar blend, mixing just until combined.

Step 4: Fold in the Cherries

Gently fold in the chopped cherries. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain the integrity of those beautiful cherry pieces.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape while baking and enhances the flavors.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 7: Bake and Dust

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once cooled slightly, roll them in powdered sugar for that signature snowball finish!

Nutritional Information

When indulging in Cherry Snowball Cookies, here is what you can expect per cookie (based on a yield of approximately 24 cookies):

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 7g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 1g

Understanding the nutritional content helps you make informed choices during the holiday season!

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you want to make your Cherry Snowball Cookies healthier, here are some alternatives:

• Substitute half of the butter for unsweetened applesauce to cut down on fat.
• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Choose a sugar substitute like Stevia or erythritol to reduce calories and sugar content.

These modifications help you maintain the spirit of the treat while being more nutritious.

Serving Suggestions

Take your Christmas cookies to the next level with these creative serving suggestions:

• Create a holiday platter: Arrange your Cherry Snowball Cookies alongside gingerbread men and peppermint bark for a festive display.
• Pair with beverages: Serve with eggnog or a warm cup of cocoa for a complete holiday experience.
• Gift packaging: Package cookies in decorative boxes or jars, tied with a ribbon, to make delightful gifts for friends and family.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your cookies come out perfectly, watch out for these common pitfalls:

• Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can result in flat cookies.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on them; you want them just slightly golden, not brown.
• Using stale ingredients: Fresh baking powder and butter make a significant difference in texture and taste.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Cherry Snowball Cookies fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store them in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature.
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. To do this, layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container.
• Dough Storage: You can also freeze the unbaked cookie dough. Just thaw it in the fridge before baking!

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Conclusion

In summary, becoming a pro at making Cherry Snowball Cookies is within your reach with these seven tips. Embrace the joy of baking this holiday season and impress your family and friends with your cookie-making skills.

Ready to give this delightful recipe a shot? Share your experiences in the comments below, and explore more delicious posts for your festive gatherings!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries add a burst of flavor, but make sure to chop them finely to maintain the right cookie texture.

2. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to chill the dough after shaping the cookies!

3. What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, refrigerate it longer to firm up before rolling it into balls. You can also lightly dust your hands with flour while shaping.

Get excited, and let your baking adventure begin!