Soft Cherry Snowball Cookies For Holiday Cheer

As I stand in my cozy kitchen, the scent of nostalgia fills the air. The holiday season is a magical time, where family gatherings and warm moments take center stage. I remember making Soft Cherry Snowball Cookies For Holiday Cheer with my grandmother. She always wore a bright smile as she taught me how to mix the dough, a hint of almond extract wafting towards us, and the sight of plump cherries glistening in the bowl. Each cookie held a story, a memory woven into its snowy exterior, reminding us of laughter and love. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a part of who we are and what makes our holidays special. Now, I want to share this delightful recipe with you, inviting you to create your own memories in the kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

Soft Cherry Snowball Cookies For Holiday Cheer create a heartwarming experience for any gathering. You will enjoy the sweet, nutty flavors with a delightful crunch from the almonds and a surprise from the cherries. These cookies don’t just taste good; they bring joy and comfort, making them perfect for any celebration.

Everyone will appreciate the buttery texture and the sweetness enveloped in powdered sugar. You can enjoy these cookies with friends, family, or even by yourself with a warm cup of cocoa. The preparation is simple and quick, so you won’t spend your entire day baking. Instead, you can make them in batches and share the love with others. Just imagine the smiles on faces as they take their first bite.

These cookies also bring versatility to your holiday dessert table. They pair perfectly with coffee or tea, making them great for holiday brunches. Plus, you can make them ahead of time and store them for later. In addition, their festive look with the white powdered sugar and pops of red cherries makes them a sight to behold on any platter.

How to Make Soft Cherry Snowball Cookies For Holiday Cheer

Ingredients:

• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 tsp Almond extract
• 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
• 1 cup Powdered sugar
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/2 cup Almonds (chopped)
• 1 cup Unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup Candied or maraschino cherries (chopped)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the almond extract.
4. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, salt, and chopped almonds, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Fold in the chopped candied or maraschino cherries.
6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
9. Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar and let cool completely on a wire rack.

How to Serve Soft Cherry Snowball Cookies For Holiday Cheer

These delightful cookies shine at any holiday event. You can present them on a beautiful platter, maybe with a sprinkle of extra powdered sugar on top for that festive touch. For the best experience, serve them at room temperature.

Soft Cherry Snowball Cookies For Holiday Cheer make a fantastic addition to dessert tables or cookie exchanges. You may also pair them with a cup of hot cocoa or a pot of tea for cozy evenings. It’s lovely to see how the cookies create a warm, inviting atmosphere wherever they are served, encouraging laughter and joy among friends and family.

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How to Store Soft Cherry Snowball Cookies For Holiday Cheer

To keep your Soft Cherry Snowball Cookies For Holiday Cheer fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can last for about one week at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them, but be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

For longer storage, freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, and then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just take them out and let them come to room temperature. This way, the texture will remain soft and inviting, ready to delight your taste buds.

Tips to Make Soft Cherry Snowball Cookies For Holiday Cheer

1. Use Room Temperature Butter: Start with unsalted butter at room temperature. This makes it easier to cream with sugar, leading to a light and fluffy texture.

2. Chop the Almonds: Be sure to chop the almonds well. This helps them blend into the dough better, ensuring that every bite has that wonderful nutty flavor.

3. Cool Down Before Coating: Allow the cookies to cool slightly before rolling them in powdered sugar. While they should still be warm, cooling them slightly helps the sugar stick better without melting into a puddle.

4. Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on them while they bake. Ovens can vary, so check them a minute or two before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.

5. Customization with Flavor: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider mixing in some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive twist.

6. Try Different Cherries: If you prefer a unique flavor, substitute maraschino cherries with dried cherries. They will provide a chewy texture and a different taste experience.

7. Experiment with Nuts: Instead of almonds, try using walnuts or pecans. They offer a different flavor and can add a nice crunch.

8. Portion Sizes: Roll the dough into smaller or larger balls depending on your preference. You can make mini versions for a delightful bite-sized treat!

Variation of Soft Cherry Snowball Cookies For Holiday Cheer

1. Chocolate Version: Add 1/3 cup of cocoa powder to the dough for a rich chocolate version. Pair with white chocolate chips for an extra creamy treat.

2. Fruity Twist: Swap the cherries for dried cranberries or raisins. This alternative gives you a fruity burst in every bite and adds a chewy texture that complements the buttery cookie.

3. Minty Holiday Version: Incorporate peppermint extract instead of almond extract for a festive minty flavor. Top them with crushed candy canes after rolling in powdered sugar for a colorful finish.

4. Nutty Variation: If you enjoy different flavors, use pistachios instead of almonds. They provide a lovely green color and a unique nutty taste that pairs well with the cherries.

5. Spiced Version: Mix in a teaspoon of pumpkin spice or ginger spice. This choice adds warmth and makes your cookies delightful for the winter season.

6. Low-Sugar Option: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol to cut down on sugar. Use a specific conversion chart to ensure you get the sweetness just right without losing that signature taste.

FAQs of Soft Cherry Snowball Cookies For Holiday Cheer

1. How should I store Soft Cherry Snowball Cookies?
Store these cookies in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating or freezing them.

2. Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough! Chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. This way, you can bake fresh cookies whenever you like.

3. What if I don’t have almond extract?
If you can’t find almond extract, vanilla extract works well as a substitute. It will change the flavor slightly but will still create delicious cookies.

4. How can I add more flavor to the cookies?
Feel free to mix in spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for an earthy flavor. You can also add citrus zest like lemon or orange for a refreshing touch.

5. Why did my cookies spread too much while baking?
Cookies can spread if the butter is too soft or if the dough is warm. Always ensure your butter is at room temperature, and consider chilling the dough for about 15-20 minutes before baking.

6. How do I know when my cookies are done?
The edges of the cookies should turn lightly golden, but the centers may look slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

The joy of making Soft Cherry Snowball Cookies For Holiday Cheer is creating memories. Every bite recalls warmth and happiness during the festive season. Enjoy making and sharing them with your loved ones!

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