Name: Cherry Snowball Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 34 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp almond extract; 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries (blotted dry); 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips; 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans

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Cherry Snowball Cookies are a delightful twist on classic shortbread-style holiday treats. Filled with sweet maraschino cherries, crunchy pecans, and mini chocolate chips, these cookies melt in my mouth and bring that rich, buttery flavor I crave during the holidays. Rolled in powdered sugar for that classic snowball look, they’re festive, fun, and completely irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these cookies combine traditional holiday flavors with a playful cherry-chocolate twist. The texture is what gets me every time—tender and crumbly with tiny bursts of crunch from the pecans. The mini chocolate chips and cherries give just the right amount of sweetness and color, making these cookies just as beautiful as they are delicious. They’re easy to make, freeze well, and are perfect for gifting, snacking, or adding to a cookie platter. Cherry Snowball Cookies

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter, softened
Powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
All-purpose flour
Salt
Vanilla extract
Almond extract
Chopped maraschino cherries
Mini chocolate chips
Finely chopped pecans

Directions

I start by creaming together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
I mix in the vanilla and almond extracts, which give the dough a deep, rich flavor with a hint of cherry-almond aroma.
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the flour and salt, then gradually add it to the butter mixture.
Once the dough starts coming together, I fold in the chopped cherries, mini chocolate chips, and finely chopped pecans.
I scoop out small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon each), roll them into balls, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
I bake the cookies until they’re just set and lightly golden on the bottom—usually around 12–14 minutes.
While the cookies are still warm, I gently roll them in powdered sugar, then let them cool and roll them one more time for that perfect snowball finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies. It takes me around 20 minutes to prep the dough and another 12–14 minutes to bake, so I can have these ready in under 40 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

Sometimes I like to play with the flavors by swapping the almond extract for cherry extract to boost the cherry profile. I’ve also added red or green holiday sprinkles to the dough for extra festive flair. If I’m in the mood for something extra rich, I’ll dip half the cookie in melted chocolate and let it set for a chocolate-covered version.

Storage/Reheating

These cookies keep well at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. I often freeze them in quart-size freezer bags and thaw as needed. They don’t need reheating, but if I want that fresh-baked feel, I let them sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes or warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10 seconds.

FAQs

Can I freeze the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the dough, roll it into balls, and freeze them unbaked. When I’m ready to bake, I just add an extra minute or two to the baking time straight from the freezer.

Do I need to dry the maraschino cherries before adding them?

Absolutely. I always blot them dry with paper towels to prevent too much moisture from getting into the dough.

Can I skip the nuts?

Yes, I can leave out the pecans if needed, or replace them with finely chopped walnuts or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch.

Why do I roll them in powdered sugar twice?

Rolling them warm helps the sugar stick and melt slightly into the surface. I do a second roll after they cool to give them that full snowy look.

Can I make these without chocolate chips?

Definitely. I’ve made them without chocolate chips before, and they’re just as delicious with a stronger cherry-nut flavor profile.

Conclusion

Cherry Snowball Cookies bring a burst of festive flavor to every bite. I love how the buttery shortbread, sweet cherries, crunchy pecans, and mini chocolate chips come together in this soft, crumbly cookie. Whether I’m baking for family, friends, or just indulging in a little seasonal joy, these cookies always make the holidays feel a little sweeter.