Description
Delightfully sweet and buttery Cherry Snowball Cookies filled with juicy maraschino cherries, these melt-in-your-mouth treats are perfect for festive occasions or any time you crave a fruity, powdered sugar-coated cookie.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 jar (6 ounces) maraschino cherries without stems, drained and halved
Coating
- Additional confectioners' sugar, for rolling
Instructions
- Make the cookie dough: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and 1/2 cup of confectioners' sugar together until light and fluffy, about five to seven minutes. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing continuously. Be sure to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl occasionally to make sure all ingredients are evenly combined into a smooth dough.
- Shape around the cherries: Using a tablespoon, scoop a portion of the dough and gently wrap it around one half of a drained maraschino cherry, shaping it into a neat ball. Repeat this process with all dough and cherries. Arrange each cookie ball about 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly browned. This ensures the cookie is cooked through while retaining a tender texture.
- Coat in confectioners’ sugar: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool just until warm but not hot. Immediately roll each cookie generously in additional confectioners' sugar to create the signature snowy appearance. Transfer the coated cookies onto wire racks and allow them to cool completely to room temperature before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the cherries are well-drained and patted dry to prevent excess moisture in the dough.
- Do not overbake; the cookies should retain a soft, tender center.
- For best results, roll the cookies in confectioners' sugar while still warm, but handle them gently to avoid crushing the cookies.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
