Description
These Cherry Snowball Cookies are the ultimate treat for cookie lovers. A buttery shortbread-style dough wraps around juicy maraschino cherries and gets coated in a flurry of powdered sugar. Perfect for cookie swaps, holidays, or a cozy snack with your coffee. This easy recipe blends old-fashioned charm with a playful twist. If you’re looking for quick dessert ideas, easy baking recipes, or holiday cookie inspiration—this one hits all the marks.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
0.5 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
0.25 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
2.25 cups all-purpose flour
0.25 teaspoon salt
20 to 24 maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
1. Cream the softened butter and powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes using a hand mixer.
2. Add vanilla extract and almond extract (if using). Gradually mix in flour and salt until a soft dough forms. Use hands to fully incorporate if needed.
3. Flatten about 1 tablespoon of dough in your palm. Place a cherry in the center, wrap the dough around it, and roll into a ball. Repeat for all cherries.
4. Place dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 14 minutes, or until just lightly golden on the bottom.
5. Let cookies cool for 5 minutes. While still warm, roll them in powdered sugar. Cool completely, then roll again for full “snowball” effect.
Notes
Pat the cherries dry really well to avoid soggy dough. Even a little excess moisture can ruin the texture.
Chill the formed cookie balls for 10–15 minutes before baking if your dough feels too soft. This helps them keep shape.
Roll in powdered sugar twice: once warm, once cool—for the prettiest, most flavorful finish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg