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Irresistible Cherry Snowball Cookies

Irresistible Cherry Snowball Cookies
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Irresistible Cherry Snowball Cookies are delicate, buttery treats bursting with tart cherry flavor and finished with a snowy dusting of powdered sugar. Perfectly crisp on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth soft inside, these cookies bring festive cheer to holidays or any occasion with their charming snowball appearance and delightful texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (divided: part for dough and part for dusting)

Wet Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup cold unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract for variation)

Add-ins

  • 3/4 cup chopped dried cherries or cherry preserves (or fresh cherries, finely chopped)
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans, optional)
  • Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Begin by creaming the softened butter with half of the powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates a tender crumb and sweet base for your cookies. Next, mix in the vanilla extract (or almond extract if using) and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
  2. Add Cherries and Nuts: Gently fold the chopped dried cherries and nuts into the dough. If using white chocolate chips or other variations, fold them in carefully as well. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender and prevent toughness.
  3. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls about one inch in diameter. Arrange them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges are just set but not browned. The cookies should maintain a pale appearance to preserve their classic snowball look.
  5. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Let the cookies cool slightly, then while they are still warm, roll each cookie thoroughly in powdered sugar. Once fully cooled, dust them a second time to achieve the signature snowy finish and add an extra layer of sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Notes

  • Use cold butter to help reduce spreading and achieve even texture.
  • Chop cherries finely for even flavor distribution without overpowering bites.
  • Double dust cookies with powdered sugar for an authentic snowball effect.
  • Avoid overbaking to keep cookies tender and prevent dryness.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and prevent powdered sugar clumping.
  • For vegan version, substitute butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil and use vegan-friendly chocolate chips.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cherry snowball cookies, holiday cookies, buttery cookies, cherry cookies, powdered sugar cookies, gluten-free cookies, melt-in-your-mouth cookies

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/irresistible-cherry-snowball-cookies/