Almond Cherry Snowballs

Almond Cherry Snowballs

Almond Cherry Snowballs are delightful little cookies that bring together the sweet taste of cherries and the nutty flavor of almonds. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday celebration or just a cozy afternoon snack. Their soft texture and powdered sugar coating make them as lovely to look at as they are to eat.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Almond Cherry Snowballs is a rewarding experience. They are simple to prepare and require fewer ingredients than you might think. The combination of almonds and cherries offers a unique flavor twist that stands out among traditional cookies. Plus, they’re great for sharing with friends and family!

How to Make Almond Cherry Snowballs

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup finely chopped dried cherries
• 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Stir in the almond extract until combined.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough starts to come together.
5. Fold in the chopped dried cherries and almonds, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
8. Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then roll them generously in powdered sugar while still warm.
9. Let the cookies cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

How to Serve Almond Cherry Snowballs

Almond Cherry Snowballs can be served as a delightful treat anytime. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. You can place them on a decorative plate for a lovely presentation that will impress your guests.

How to Store Almond Cherry Snowballs

To keep your Almond Cherry Snowballs fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for up to a week, but we’re sure they won’t last that long – they’re simply too delicious!

Tips to Make Almond Cherry Snowballs

• Make sure your butter is softened for easier mixing and a better texture.
• You can chill the dough for a short time if it becomes too soft to handle. This will make it easier to shape the balls.
• Adjust the amount of cherries or almonds to suit your taste. Feel free to add more if you love those flavors!

Variation

If you want to switch things up, consider adding chocolate chips or substituting other nuts instead of almonds. You can also try using other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a different twist.

FAQs

Can I make Almond Cherry Snowballs in advance?

Yes! You can make them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. They taste great even after a few days.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Absolutely! Almond Cherry Snowballs freeze well. Just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last for up to three months.

What can I use instead of almond extract?

If you don’t have almond extract, vanilla extract can be a great substitute. The flavor will be different but still delicious.

Enjoy making your Almond Cherry Snowballs, and watch how they bring joy to everyone who tries them!