Why Make This Recipe
Cherry Snowball Cookies offer a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Their soft, buttery texture combined with the sweet burst of maraschino cherries makes them a delightful snack. These cookies are not only easy to make but also bring a festive touch to your dessert table, making them ideal for holidays, parties, or just a sweet indulgence at home. Plus, the dusting of powdered sugar on top gives them a beautiful finish!
How to Make Cherry Snowball Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Additional powdered sugar for coating
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Slowly add this mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until combined.
- Fold in the chopped cherries.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool slightly, then roll them in additional powdered sugar while still warm.
- Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
How to Serve Cherry Snowball Cookies
Cherry Snowball Cookies are perfect to serve at gatherings or as a sweet snack throughout the day. You can arrange them on a pretty plate and dust with additional powdered sugar for an appealing presentation. They pair well with tea or coffee, making them a delightful afternoon treat.
How to Store Cherry Snowball Cookies
To keep your Cherry Snowball Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will stay good for up to three months. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature.
Tips to Make Cherry Snowball Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Drain the cherries well to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
- For an extra cherry flavor, consider adding a bit of cherry extract to the dough.
- If you want a stronger sweet flavor, feel free to increase the powdered sugar slightly.
Variation
You can customize Cherry Snowball Cookies by adding different nuts, like chopped pecans or walnuts, for added texture. Another variation could involve using different types of cherries, such as fresh cherries in season, which can give a different flavor and texture to the cookies.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but make sure to pit and chop them. Fresh cherries may have more moisture, so adjusting the flour may be necessary.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking. Just make sure to let it sit out for a few minutes to soften before rolling the cookies.
3. What can I use instead of cornstarch?
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use an equal amount of additional all-purpose flour. The texture may be slightly different but will still be delicious.