Cherry Snowball Cookies

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Cherry Snowball Cookies bring together the nostalgic charm of holiday baking with a pop of fruity sweetness that makes them unforgettable. Perfect for Christmas cookie exchanges, cozy winter evenings, or simply indulging in a timeless treat, these melt-in-your-mouth cookies combine buttery shortbread, finely chopped pecans, sweet maraschino cherries, and a dusting of snowy powdered sugar. They’re known around the world by many names — Mexican wedding cookies, Russian tea cakes, pecan snowballs — but no matter what you call them, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Looking for inspiration? Try our Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies for another festive twist.

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The Allure of Cherry Snowball Cookies

Why These Cookies Are a Holiday Classic

Cherry Snowball Cookies have been gracing dessert tables for generations. Their rich, buttery dough offers the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, while the cherries bring a vibrant pop of color that stands out among other holiday cookies. The snowy powdered sugar finish not only enhances their flavor but also gives them their iconic wintery appearance.

Unique Flavor Profile: Cherries, Chocolate, and Pecans

It’s the combination of textures and flavors that sets these cookies apart. Chopped maraschino cherries add bursts of fruity sweetness, mini chocolate chips bring a decadent richness, and finely ground pecans lend a subtle nutty crunch. This trio makes each bite more delightful than the last. For more nut-forward desserts, check out our Pecan Finger Cookies for a classic treat.

Global Names for This Beloved Treat

While we may call them Cherry Snowball Cookies, other cultures have their own names and traditions for similar cookies. In the United States, they’re often known as pecan snowballs, but you might also hear them called Butterballs, Snow Drop Cookies, or Polvorónes in other parts of the world. No matter the name, their charm is universal — a simple, crumbly shortbread-style cookie with a sugary coating.

How to Make Perfect Cherry Snowball Cookies

Essential Ingredients and Their Roles

Every ingredient in Cherry Snowball Cookies plays a key role in achieving that signature soft, crumbly bite. Here’s what you’ll need:

Butter – The base of the dough, providing richness and tender texture.
Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness while keeping the crumb soft; also used for rolling.
Granulated Sugar – Balances flavor with a touch of crispness.
Extracts – Almond, vanilla, and cherry extracts create a layered aroma.
Maraschino Cherries – Provide bright flavor and festive color; pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.
Pecans – Finely ground to blend smoothly into the dough for a nutty undertone.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives the dough structure.
Mini Chocolate Chips – Add a touch of indulgence without overpowering the cherry flavor.

Discover great ideas like our White Chocolate Dipped Chewy Maple Cookies if you’re exploring more creative cookie combinations.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Cream the Butter and Sugars – Beat until light and fluffy for a smooth, airy base.
Add Extracts and Salt – Mix in almond, vanilla, and cherry extracts with a pinch of salt for balanced flavor.
Prepare the Cherries – Drain well, pat dry, and chop finely. Too much liquid will make the dough sticky.
Incorporate Nuts and Flour – Mix in finely ground pecans, then gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
Fold in Chocolate Chips – Gently stir in to keep them evenly distributed.
Chill the Dough – Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to make rolling easier.
Bake – Roll into 1½-inch balls, bake at 350°F for 15–17 minutes.
Roll in Powdered Sugar – While still warm, roll in sugar, let cool, and roll again for a snowy finish.

For another melt-in-your-mouth classic, don’t miss our Christmas Sugar Cookies.

Tips for Preventing Flat Cookies

Dry Your Cherries Thoroughly – Excess juice can flatten cookies.
Adjust Flour as Needed – If dough feels too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until firm.
Chill Before Baking – Keeps cookies from spreading too much in the oven.

Adjusting Sweetness and Texture

If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the powdered sugar coating or swap mini chocolate chips for chopped dark chocolate. For a crumblier texture, use only powdered sugar in the dough; for a slightly chewy bite, keep the granulated sugar as well.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines

Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To freeze, arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Defrost at room temperature and re-roll in powdered sugar before serving. Looking for inspiration? Try our Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe for another holiday-ready freezer-friendly option.

Flavor Variations and Creative Twists

Swapping Nuts, Chocolates, and Fruits

While pecans are traditional in Cherry Snowball Cookies, you can experiment with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pistachios. For a richer taste, swap mini chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks. Or, replace maraschino cherries with candied cherries or dried cranberries for a tart bite.

Adding Color and Festive Decorations

Mix in holiday-themed sprinkles or roll the cookies in colored sugar before baking for a vibrant, cheerful touch.

Fun Stuffed Versions with Cherry Cordials

For a surprise inside, wrap dough around a cherry cordial candy before baking. This creates a decadent molten center perfect for holiday gifting.

Kid-Friendly Adaptations

Skip the nuts entirely for allergy-friendly baking. Let kids help roll dough balls in powdered sugar for an interactive holiday kitchen activity.

Health and Ingredient Substitutions

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options

Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version without losing the rich flavor.

Lower-Sugar Adjustments

Replace some of the powdered sugar with unsweetened coconut flakes for a lighter sweetness and extra texture.

Fresh Cherries vs. Maraschino

If cherries are in season, fresh ones can be pitted, chopped, and dried thoroughly before adding to the dough. Just note that fresh cherries will bring a subtler sweetness compared to maraschino.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Best Drinks to Serve with Cherry Snowball Cookies

Pair with hot cocoa, mulled wine, or spiced tea for a comforting winter combo.

Presentation for Holiday Parties

Arrange cookies on a tiered dessert stand alongside other holiday favorites like Pumpkin S’mores Cookies for a visually appealing spread.

Place cookies in festive tins with parchment layers or tie them in cellophane bags with holiday ribbon for thoughtful, homemade presents.

FAQ About Cherry Snowball Cookies

Can I skip chilling the dough?

Yes, but chilled dough is easier to handle and produces a rounder cookie.

What’s the best way to keep powdered sugar coating thick?

Roll cookies while still warm, then coat again once cooled for a double layer.

How do I prevent cookies from baking flat?

Pat cherries dry and add a bit more flour if dough feels too soft.

Can these cookies be frozen before baking?

Yes — freeze dough balls on a baking sheet until firm, then store in freezer bags for up to a month. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Cherry Snowball Cookies are a holiday classic that balance buttery richness, nutty crunch, and fruity bursts of cherry in every bite. Whether you keep the recipe traditional or add your own creative twist, they’ll quickly become a staple in your seasonal baking. They’re versatile, freezer-friendly, and perfect for gifting — making them one of the most dependable cookies you can bake this season. Don’t miss our Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies for another festive crowd-pleaser.

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