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Melt-In-Your-Mouth Cherry Snowball Cookies

These Cherry Snowball Cookies are a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. Their delicate, powdery texture and sweet cherry flavor will make them a favorite for everyone.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 24
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries, well-drained and patted dry
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional

Equipment

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer (or whisk)
  • Parchment paper
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Small bowl for powdered sugar
  • Rubber spatula or wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
  3. Beat in the vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  6. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and nuts (if using). Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  7. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
  8. Place the cookie balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
  9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them; they should be pale, not browned.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. While the cookies are still slightly warm, roll them generously in powdered sugar. This first coating will melt slightly and create a sticky base for the second coating.
  12. Once the cookies are completely cool, roll them in powdered sugar again. This second coating is what gives them that beautiful "snowball" appearance.

Notes

For best results, ensure the butter is properly softened but not melted. Draining and drying the maraschino cherries is crucial to prevent soggy cookies. Double coating with powdered sugar creates the signature snowball look. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, but the powdered sugar may absorb over time, so re-dust before serving. Experiment with different extracts like almond or rum for varied flavor profiles.