Cherry Snowball Cookies: A Festive Classic with Timeless Charm
Few holiday treats capture the magic of the season quite like Cherry Snowball Cookies. These delicate, buttery cookies are rolled in a soft blanket of powdered sugar, giving them their signature snowy appearance. With every bite, you’re met with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, sweet pops of maraschino cherry, subtle coconut richness, and the gentle crunch of walnuts. They’re nostalgic, beautiful, and irresistibly delicious.
What makes this recipe so special is its perfect balance of flavor and texture. The dough is rich and tender, the cherries add festive color and sweetness, and the coconut enhances the buttery base without overpowering it. These cookies are a staple on holiday dessert tables for a reason—they’re comforting, reliable, and always loved.
Ingredients & Their Roles
- Unsalted Butter – Creates the rich, tender base of the cookie and delivers that classic melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens gently while keeping the cookies soft and delicate.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure while maintaining a crumbly, tender bite.
- Maraschino Cherries (chopped) – Bring sweetness, color, and festive flair to every bite.
- Shredded Coconut – Adds subtle richness and texture without overpowering the butter.
- Walnuts (chopped) – Offer a gentle crunch and nutty depth that balances the sweetness.
- Powdered Sugar (for rolling) – Creates the iconic snowball finish and extra sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. - Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light, fluffy, and smooth. This step is crucial for achieving a tender cookie. - Add Flavorings
Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated. - Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft and crumbly. - Fold in the Goodness
Gently fold in the chopped cherries, shredded coconut, and walnuts until evenly distributed. - Shape the Cookies
Scoop small portions of dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart. - Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, just until the bottoms are lightly golden. The cookies should remain pale. - Cool & Coat
Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes, then gently roll them in powdered sugar. Once completely cooled, roll them again for a thick, snowy coating.
Why This Recipe Is So Loved
Cherry Snowball Cookies are cherished because they’re simple, dependable, and deeply nostalgic. They use pantry-friendly ingredients, come together quickly, and store beautifully for days. Their festive appearance makes them perfect for gifting, cookie swaps, and holiday gatherings.
Pro Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies
- Dry the cherries well before chopping to prevent excess moisture in the dough.
- Chill the dough for 20–30 minutes if it feels too soft to handle.
- Double-roll in sugar for the most beautiful snowy finish.
- Do not overbake—these cookies should stay pale and tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies alongside hot cocoa, coffee, or spiced tea for a cozy holiday treat. Arrange them on a festive platter with other classic cookies, or package them in decorative tins for heartfelt homemade gifts.
Final Thoughts
Cherry Snowball Cookies are proof that the simplest recipes often bring the greatest joy. With their buttery texture, festive flavors, and elegant appearance, they’re a must-bake holiday classic. Easy to make, beautiful to serve, and impossible to resist—this is the kind of recipe that becomes a treasured tradition year after year.