why make this recipe
Cherry Almond Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of butter, nuts, and cherries, creating a cookie that is both tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. These cookies are perfect for festive occasions or simply for enjoying as a sweet snack. They bring a lovely splash of color and flavor to the cookie tray, making them a favorite among family and friends. Plus, they are easy to make and require minimal ingredients, making them a fantastic option for bakers of all skill levels.
how to make Cherry Almond Snowball Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped and drained
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the flour, nuts, chopped cherries, and salt until well combined.
- Shape the dough into small balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar, then let them cool completely.
- Dust with additional powdered sugar before serving.
how to serve Cherry Almond Snowball Cookies
These cookies can be served on a festive platter, making them a great addition to holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, enhancing the cozy feel of any occasion. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional powdered sugar on top just before serving for a beautiful, snowy appearance.
how to store Cherry Almond Snowball Cookies
To keep these cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, maintaining their soft texture and flavor. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just place the cookies in a freezer-safe container, layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months.
tips to make Cherry Almond Snowball Cookies
- Make sure your butter is well softened for easy creaming with the sugar.
- Be gentle when mixing in the cherries and nuts to avoid breaking them apart too much.
- For a more intense almond flavor, consider using almond extract instead of vanilla.
- Allow the cookies to cool a bit before rolling them in powdered sugar to prevent it from melting.
variation
You can customize these cookies by using different types of nuts such as pecans or pistachios. Additionally, consider adding a splash of almond extract for a more pronounced almond flavor. You can even use dried cherries or cranberries for a twist on the traditional recipe.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but make sure to chop and pit them thoroughly, as well as pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures the same.
3. How do I make these cookies more festive?
You can add colored sprinkles or drizzle chocolate over the cooled cookies for a festive touch. They can also be decorated with edible glitter for special occasions!
Cherry Almond Snowball Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure butter is well softened for easy creaming.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Consider using almond extract for a more intense flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds) You can also use other nuts like pecans or pistachios.
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped and drained Fresh cherries can be used if thoroughly pitted and dried.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- as needed for dusting powdered sugar Dust cookies with additional powdered sugar before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the flour, nuts, chopped cherries, and salt until well combined.
- Shape the dough into small balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet.
Baking
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar, then let them cool completely.