Cherry Snowball Shortbread Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional shortbread, combining the rich buttery flavor of shortbread with the sweet tang of maraschino cherries. These cookies are soft and melt in your mouth, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. With a snowy dusting of powdered sugar on top, they not only taste great but also look festive and inviting on any dessert table. Whether you’re preparing for the holidays or a casual gathering, these cookies will surely bring joy to your festivities!

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Snowball Shortbread Cookies

There are many reasons to adore these cherry shortbread cookies. First, they are incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for beginner bakers. Second, the combination of buttery shortbread and sweet cherries creates a unique flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Additionally, they look stunning with the powdered sugar dusting, making them ideal for holiday celebrations. You can also customize them with various toppings, such as nuts or chocolate. Plus, they can be made gluten-free by substituting the flour, ensuring that everyone can enjoy them!

Ingredients for Cherry Snowball Shortbread Cookies

Gather these items:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
20–24 whole maraschino cherries, well-drained and patted dry
Extra powdered sugar for dusting

How to Make Cherry Snowball Shortbread Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the cherries. Drain the maraschino cherries and pat them completely dry to prevent slipping or melting during baking.
Step 2: Make the shortbread dough. Beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Add vanilla, then mix in the flour and salt on low speed until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Chill the dough. Wrap the dough and refrigerate to firm it for easier shaping.
Step 4: Shape the cookies. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Roll dough into 1-inch balls, place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and press a small well into each using your thumb.
Step 5: Add the cherry. Press one whole maraschino cherry deep into the center of each cookie.
Step 6: Bake. Bake for 12–15 minutes, keeping the cookies pale and soft. The bottoms may turn lightly golden—avoid browning to maintain the snowy look.
Step 7: Cool and dust. Cool cookies on the sheet for 10 minutes, then dust generously with powdered sugar for the perfect snowy finish.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cherry Snowball Shortbread Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Ensure the maraschino cherries are well-drained; excess moisture can affect the cookie’s texture.
For a unique twist, try adding almond extract instead of vanilla for cherry almond snowball cookies.
Use a cookie scoop for uniformity in size, ensuring even baking.
Remember to chill the dough; this helps maintain the shape while baking.

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Best Ways to Serve Cherry Snowball Shortbread Cookies

These cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions. Serve them during holiday gatherings for a festive touch. They also make great gifts when packaged in decorative boxes. Pair them with hot cocoa or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. For a fun twist, consider serving snowball cookies with cherries alongside other holiday cookies for a beautiful dessert spread.

How to Store and Reheat Cherry Snowball Shortbread Cookies

To store your cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a freezer bag, and they should last up to three months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature and dust with powdered sugar again for that fresh look.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Snowball Shortbread Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Cherry Snowball Shortbread Cookies?

The secret lies in properly preparing the maraschino cherries. Make sure to drain and dry them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from altering the dough’s consistency. This ensures that your cookies maintain their shape and texture.

Can I make Cherry Snowball Shortbread Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll the dough into balls, add the cherries, and bake as directed for fresh cookies anytime.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cherry Snowball Shortbread Cookies?

Avoid common pitfalls by carefully measuring your ingredients and ensuring your butter is softened but not melted. Overmixing the dough can also lead to tough cookies, so mix just until combined for the best texture.

Variations of Cherry Snowball Shortbread Cookies You Can Try

There are several delightful variations to explore! For a tropical twist, try cherry and coconut snowball cookies. If you love nuts, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to your dough for added crunch. For those looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and enjoy delicious gluten-free cherry snowball cookies!

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For more delicious cookie recipes, check out Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cookies and Irresistible Peach Upside Down Mini Cakes. If you’re interested in gluten-free options, you might also like Quick Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins.

For additional insights on baking techniques, you can visit King Arthur Baking for expert tips on cookie baking.