Cherry Snowball Cookies

Name: Cherry Snowball Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 47 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 cups Butter (room temperature); 0.75 cup Powdered sugar (for dough); 0.5 cup Granulated sugar; 1 tsp Salt; 1.5 tsp Almond extract; 1.5 tsp Vanilla extract; 0.5 tsp Cherry extract or emulsion; 0.5 cup Maraschino cherries (drained and chopped); 1 cup Pecans (finely ground); 4.5 cups All-purpose flour; 0.75 cup Mini chocolate chips (semi-sweet recommended); 1.5 cups Powdered sugar (for rolling)

December 21, 2025 by Daniel Carter

Delicious Cherry Snowball Cookies coated in powdered sugar

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Delightful Delicacies: Experience the Magic of Cherry Snowball Cookies

There’s something undeniably enchanting about desserts that evoke joy and warmth, and Cherry Snowball Cookies are a shining example. Picture this: a cozy winter afternoon, the golden sunlight filtering through frosted glass, illuminating a kitchen filled with the sweet, buttery aroma of freshly baked treats. As the snow gently falls outside, the vibrant red cherries nestled in soft, powdery dough create a festive atmosphere that invites loved ones to gather, indulge, and share in the festive spirit.

These delightful morsels are not just treats; they are an experience that transforms any occasion into a celebration. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, attending a holiday party, or simply craving a nostalgic bite, Cherry Snowball Cookies have the charm to steal the show. With their tender texture and irresistible sweetness, these cookies will quickly find a cherished spot in your heart and, more importantly, in your recipe collection.

Perfect for sharing with friends or savored all by yourself with a steaming cup of cocoa, these cookies are as comforting as a patch of sunshine on a chilly day. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the delightful world of Cherry Snowball Cookies.

What You’ll Need

Before embarking on your baking adventure, let’s gather our tools and ingredients. Cherry Snowball Cookies call for simple yet delicious components that meld beautifully together, resulting in a treat that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

1.5 cups Butter (room temperature) (Salted or unsalted works)
0.75 cup Powdered sugar (For dough)
0.5 cup Granulated sugar (Creates tender texture)
1 tsp Salt (Enhances all flavors)
1.5 tsp Almond extract (Key flavor component)
1.5 tsp Vanilla extract (Pure preferred)
0.5 tsp Cherry extract or emulsion (See substitution notes)
0.5 cup Maraschino cherries (Drained and chopped)
1 cup Pecans (Finely ground)
4.5 cups All-purpose flour (May vary slightly)
0.75 cup Mini chocolate chips (Semi-sweet recommended)
1.5 cups Powdered sugar (For rolling)

Tools

To create your impressive Cherry Snowball Cookies, you’ll require a few essential kitchen tools:

Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or whisk
Wooden spoon
Baking sheets (lined with parchment paper)
Measuring cups and spoons
A cookie scoop for even dough portions

How to Make It

Now that we have everything we need, let’s delve into the enchanting process of creating Cherry Snowball Cookies. This recipe is simple yet satisfying, allowing the rich flavors to meld beautifully as it comes together.

Prep the Base

Start by creaming together the butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, blend these ingredients on medium speed until they become light and fluffy—about five minutes. The mixture will transform into a soft, airy mass, filling your kitchen with a buttery fragrance that makes your heart skip a beat. Once combined, sprinkle in the salt along with the almond, vanilla, and cherry extracts. Let the enticing scents mingle, and soon you will have a delightful mix that captures the essence of the holidays.

Build the Flavor

Next, it’s time to fold in the cherries. Drain the maraschino cherries well and chop them finely, releasing their sweet-tart juice. Gently fold these vibrant gems into the butter mixture, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. The bright red of the cherries against the pale dough is a feast for the eyes, promising delicious bites ahead. Now, add the finely ground pecans, mixing them softly until they’re well incorporated. The nuts not only contribute a delightful nuttiness but create a beautiful texture that enhances each cookie.

Bake to Perfection

The final touch before baking is to gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour into your dough, about half a cup at a time. As you sprinkle the flour in, mix gently until a soft dough forms. You’ll feel the dough coming together, slightly sticky yet manageable, as it calls for the warm embrace of your hands. Once the dough is complete, it’s time to fold in the mini chocolate chips, those little bursts of chocolate that will melt delightfully during baking.

Before moving to the final steps, allow your dough to chill in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes. This not only enhances the flavors but also provides the perfect firm structure for shaping. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), filling the space with warmth and anticipation.

Shape and Bake

After the dough has chilled, scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough for each cookie, rolling them into simple balls. Arrange them on your lined baking sheets, leaving ample space between each to give them room to expand. As you place them into the oven, listen as the door clicks shut—it’s time for magic to happen!

Allow your cookies to bake for 15–17 minutes or until their bottoms are lightly golden. Watch as they puff up and transform into the cookie version of fluffy clouds. The aroma will soon waft through your kitchen, a tantalizing mix of almond and cherry that makes even the most impatient baker sigh with bliss.

Final Touches

Once baked, take the cookies out, letting them cool slightly on the baking sheets. While they’re still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar, a snowy finish that elevates their appearance to festive elegance. Let them cool completely before rolling them in powdered sugar again, ensuring a delightful sweetness in every bite. This final step is such a joyful moment, as the cookies glisten with a snowy white coat, perfect for sharing with those you love.

Creative Twists

While the classic Cherry Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat on their own, sometimes a little creativity can add even more joy. Consider experimenting with the following variations:

Seasonal Upgrades: Swap the cherries for dried cranberries during the holiday season for a tangy twist or use diced fresh strawberries in the summer for a vibrant, juicy flavor.
Flavor Explorations: Incorporate a touch of spice by adding cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a hint of warmth. Alternatively, stir in a swirl of raspberry sauce for a new fruity fusion.
Custom Coatings: Instead of rolling in powdered sugar, try dipping the cookies in melted white chocolate and sprinkling them with crushed nuts for an elegant finish.
Nut-Free Option: For nut-free cookies, simply omit the pecans and replace them with sunflower seeds for a crunchy alternative that keeps the flavor profile intact.

Final Inspiration

As you gather around the table with family and friends, these Cherry Snowball Cookies will surely spark conversations and create cherished memories. The blend of flavors and delightful textures is a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing homemade treats. So, whether it’s a festive gathering, a thoughtful gift, or a simple afternoon treat for yourself, take the plunge and let the magic of Cherry Snowball Cookies inspire you.

Bake these cookies, savor each bite, and share the love. After all, nothing speaks louder than a homemade delicacy that warms the heart and creates lasting memories. May your kitchen continue to fill with the sweet aromas and connections that these delightful snowball cookies bring—all year round. Happy baking!