Cherry Snowball Cookies are one of those holiday treats that look simple but feel incredibly special. Each bite starts with a delicate, buttery cookie that practically dissolves on your tongue, followed by a sweet surprise of bright red maraschino cherry tucked right in the center. Rolled generously in confectioners’ sugar, these cookies look like little snowballs straight from a winter wonderland—making them perfect for Christmas cookie trays, holiday gifting, or cozy baking days at home.
Every festive cookie spread needs variety. You want crisp cookies, chewy cookies, chocolate-dipped treats, and at least one tender, powdered sugar–coated cookie that feels light and indulgent. Cherry Snowball Cookies check that box beautifully. Even better, this version is completely nut-free, which makes it ideal for families with allergies or anyone who simply prefers a smooth, classic texture without chopped nuts.
This recipe uses just a handful of basic pantry ingredients, which makes it cost-effective during a season when baking lists can quickly get long. Despite the simplicity, the result feels elegant, nostalgic, and undeniably festive.
These cherry snowball cookies are perfect for holiday baking and pair beautifully with other festive treats like my maraschino cherry cookies.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What Are Cherry Snowball Cookies?
What Are Snowball Cookies?
Snowball cookies are a classic type of butter cookie traditionally rolled in powdered sugar after baking. They’re known for their tender, crumbly texture and subtle sweetness. You may recognize them under different names depending on where you’ve seen or tasted them before. Russian tea cakes, Mexican wedding cookies, butterballs, and pecan snowballs all fall into the same general family.
Most traditional snowball cookies include finely chopped nuts, which add texture and richness. However, the base idea remains the same: a high-butter dough, minimal sugar, and a delicate crumb that melts in your mouth.
How Cherry Snowball Cookies Are Different
Cherry Snowball Cookies stand out because they skip the nuts entirely and replace them with a vibrant maraschino cherry center. Instead of mixing fruit throughout the dough, each cookie is shaped around a cherry half, creating a beautiful contrast when you bite into one.
This variation adds:
- A pop of color that looks stunning on holiday trays
- A sweet, fruity note that balances the rich butter
- A nut-free option that more people can enjoy
The cherry also adds moisture inside the cookie, which makes the texture feel extra soft and luxurious. If you enjoy classic holiday cookies, you may also love my soft and festive strawberry kiss cookies, which offer a similar nostalgic feel.
Why These Cookies Belong on Every Holiday Tray
Holiday cookie trays are about more than just taste. They’re about balance, color, texture, and nostalgia. Cherry Snowball Cookies bring something unique to the mix.
They’re:
- Light and tender compared to chewy or crunchy cookies
- Visually striking thanks to the hidden red center
- Easy to make in large batches
- Perfect for gifting and sharing
Because they don’t rely on spices or chocolate, they also provide a gentle contrast to bolder holiday flavors like gingerbread, peppermint, or dark chocolate.
Ingredients for Cherry Snowball Cookies
One of the best things about this recipe is how simple the ingredient list is. Each ingredient plays a specific role, and there’s very little room for unnecessary extras.
Butter
Butter is the foundation of snowball cookies. You’ll need two sticks (one cup) of unsalted butter, softened to room temperature. Soft butter creams more easily with the sugar, creating a smooth, airy dough.
If your butter is too cold, it won’t mix properly. If it’s too warm, the dough may spread or feel greasy. The ideal butter should be soft enough to press with a finger but still hold its shape.
Confectioners’ Sugar
Instead of granulated sugar, this recipe uses powdered sugar in the dough. Confectioners’ sugar dissolves more easily, which gives the cookies their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.
You’ll also need extra powdered sugar for rolling the cookies after baking. This outer coating adds sweetness and that classic snowy look.
All-Purpose Flour
Flour provides structure. Measuring correctly is essential here because too much flour can make the cookies dry and crumbly. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off, rather than scooping directly from the bag.
Maraschino Cherries
Maraschino cherries are the heart of this recipe. Choose cherries without stems for convenience. Drain them well and pat them dry before using, as excess moisture can affect the dough.
Each cherry is cut in half, so one jar goes a long way and creates a consistent size for the cookie centers. Cherry-based desserts are especially popular during the holidays, just like the treats featured in my cherry cookies recipe.
How to Make Cherry Snowball Cookies Step by Step
Creaming butter and sugar properly is key to a tender texture, and King Arthur Baking explains this process clearly in their guide on how creaming butter and sugar affects cookies.
Step 1: Make the Dough
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This slightly lower temperature helps the cookies bake gently without browning too quickly.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Mix for five to seven minutes, until the mixture looks pale, light, and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the dough, which contributes to the tender texture.
Gradually add the flour, mixing on low speed. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure everything blends evenly. The finished dough should feel soft and smooth, not sticky.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
Scoop about one tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a cherry half in the center, then gently wrap the dough around it, rolling it into a smooth ball.
Place each dough ball about one inch apart on an ungreased baking sheet. These cookies don’t spread much, so spacing doesn’t need to be excessive.
Step 3: Bake
Bake the cookies for 18 to 20 minutes, just until the bottoms turn a light golden color. The tops should remain pale. Overbaking will dry them out, so keep a close eye near the end.
Step 4: Roll in Confectioners’ Sugar
Let the cookies cool for a few minutes until they’re warm but not hot. Roll each cookie gently in powdered sugar, coating it evenly. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For an extra snowy look, you can roll them a second time once they’re fully cooled. This simple dough method works well for beginners and follows the same easy approach I use in my oreo truffle balls with pink candy coating.
Why Are My Snowball Cookies Falling Apart?
Snowball cookies have a delicate texture, but they shouldn’t crumble excessively. If yours are falling apart, one of these common issues may be the cause.
Too Much Flour
Adding too much flour is the most common problem. Even an extra few tablespoons can throw off the balance. Measure carefully and avoid packing flour into the cup.
Butter Temperature Issues
Butter that’s too cold won’t cream properly, while butter that’s too soft can make the dough greasy. Both can affect structure.
Overbaking
These cookies should stay pale on top. Baking them too long dries them out and weakens their structure.
Handling Too Soon
Let the cookies firm up slightly before rolling them in sugar. Rolling them while they’re too hot can cause breakage.
Using too much flour can cause snowball cookies to crumble, which is why it helps to follow proper measuring techniques like those outlined by America’s Test Kitchen on measuring flour accurately.
Recipe Variations and Flavor Ideas
Once you’re comfortable with the classic version, there are plenty of ways to customize these cookies.
Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips
If you don’t need a nut-free cookie, finely chopped pecans, almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts can be folded into the dough. Mini chocolate chips also work well and pair nicely with cherries.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add subtle flavor notes by mixing in:
- Vanilla extract
- Almond extract
- Orange zest
- A pinch of salt
These additions enhance the buttery base without overpowering the cherry.
Different Finishes
Instead of rolling in powdered sugar, try:
- Dipping the cookies in a light glaze
- Rolling them in coconut
- Drizzling with melted chocolate
Each option creates a different look and flavor profile. If you enjoy creative holiday desserts, you might also like these festive Valentine’s Day muddy buddies for another easy crowd-pleaser.
How to Store Cherry Snowball Cookies
Once coated in powdered sugar, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep well for up to one week.
Over time, the cookies may absorb some of the sugar coating. If that happens, simply roll them in fresh powdered sugar before serving.
These cookies store well, similar to other make-ahead treats like my Valentine’s Day banana bread, which also stays moist for days.
Can You Freeze Cherry Snowball Cookies?
Yes, Cherry Snowball Cookies freeze very well.
To freeze:
- Place cookies in an airtight container
- Separate layers with parchment or wax paper
- Freeze for up to three months
Thaw at room temperature. For best appearance, re-roll the cookies in powdered sugar after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Snowball Cookies?
Snowball cookies are buttery, crumbly cookies traditionally rolled in powdered sugar. They’re often made with nuts and known for their tender texture.
What Are the Ingredients in a Snowball Cookie?
Classic snowball cookies typically include butter, powdered sugar, flour, and sometimes nuts. Cherry Snowball Cookies replace nuts with maraschino cherries.
Why Are My Snowball Cookies Falling Apart?
Common reasons include too much flour, overbaking, or improper butter temperature. Careful measuring and gentle handling solve most issues. Holiday baking often includes a mix of textures and flavors, just like the recipes in my 25 easy healthy Valentine’s Day treats roundup.
What Nationality Are Snowball Cookies?
Snowball cookies have European roots and appear in many cultures. Variations exist in Russia, Mexico, and across the United States, each with slight differences.
For bakers curious about higher-quality options, Serious Eats breaks down the differences between brands in their overview of what makes a good maraschino cherry.
Final Thoughts
Cherry Snowball Cookies are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. They’re festive without being complicated, elegant without being fussy, and comforting in the best possible way. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, gifting friends, or simply filling your kitchen with the joy of seasonal baking, these cookies deserve a place on your table.
If you love festive cookies like these, don’t miss my collection of soft, shareable treats including strawberry kiss cookies and cherry-based desserts.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a large bowl, cream butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add flour and mix well.
- Shape a tablespoonful of dough around each cherry half, forming a smooth ball.
- Place cookies 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes or until the bottoms are browned.
- Roll warm cookies in confectioners’ sugar.
- Cool cookies completely on wire racks before serving or storing.
