Description
These Cherry Almond Snowball Cookies are soft, buttery treats dusted in powdered sugar, filled with finely chopped candied cherries and almonds that add a delightful texture and sweetness. Perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a tender, nutty cookie with a fruity twist.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature (170 grams)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (50 grams)
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (210 grams)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup blanched slivered almonds, finely chopped (114 grams)
- ½ cup candied cherries, finely chopped (100 grams)
For Rolling
- Powdered sugar, for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two sheet pans with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Make the Dough: Using an electric mixer, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which usually takes about 2 minutes. Then, add the almond extract and mix well.
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix-ins: Add the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt to the butter mixture and mix just until combined. Next, fold in the finely chopped blanched slivered almonds and candied cherries, mixing gently until evenly incorporated.
- Shape the Cookies: Drop rounded spoonfuls of the cookie dough—using approximately a #20 scoop—onto the prepared sheet pans, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading.
- Bake: Place the sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies until they are puffed and the bottoms have just begun to turn golden brown, about 15 minutes.
- Initial Cooling and Rolling: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. While still slightly warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat.
- Final Cooling and Double Rolling: Return the sugar-coated cookies to the sheet pans and allow them to cool completely. Once cool, roll them again in powdered sugar to create a snowy, festive finish.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep fresh for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Using room temperature butter ensures a smooth and creamy creaming process for the dough.
- Finely chopping the candied cherries and almonds helps distribute their flavors evenly throughout the cookie.
- Rolling the cookies twice in powdered sugar gives them a beautiful snowy appearance and adds a delightful sweetness.
- Use parchment paper on baking sheets to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cookies are best enjoyed within 5 days to maintain freshness and texture.
