- Unsalted Butter [softened] [crust and flavor] - 6 tablespoons
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt [tenderness] - 2 tablespoons
- Vanilla Extract [flavoring] - 1/2 teaspoon
- Maraschino Cherries [whole, pitted for filling] - 1 cup
- Powdered Sugar [for coating] - For dusting the cookies after baking
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Steps
### Cherry Snowball Cookies Recipe: A Sweet Christmas Tradition
#### Introduction to Cherry Snowball Cookies
Cherry snowball cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for any holiday gathering or as an after-dinner dessert. These round, soft cookies have a light vanilla flavor and are covered in sweet, tangy cherry icing that's reminiscent of a classic candy-coated chocolate. Perfectly paired with hot cocoa or coffee, these cookies make the perfect addition to your festive menu.
#### Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (about 1.5 sticks)
- 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cherry frosting (store-bought or homemade)
#### Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter (3-inch round)
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
##### Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
##### Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Set this mixture aside for later use.
##### Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
Using an electric mixer on medium speed, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
##### Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the egg to the mixture and beat well. Stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture will be smooth but slightly lumpy – this is normal!
##### Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients you prepared earlier until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
##### Step 6: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step helps keep the cookies soft by allowing the butter to firm up slightly.
##### Step 7: Roll and Cut Cookies
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit for about 5 minutes to soften. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Use a 3-inch round cookie cutter to cut out circles of dough.
##### Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 9-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
##### Step 9: Frosting Preparation
While the cookies are still warm from baking (but before they cool down), carefully spread a thin layer of cherry frosting over each cookie with a small offset spatula. Allow the frosting to set slightly but not harden entirely for easy handling.
##### Step 10: Final Touches
Once completely cooled, you can add additional frosting or toppings if desired. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
#### Tips and Variations
- **Flavor Enhancement**: For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt to the cookie dough.
- **Colorful Touches**: Consider using food coloring to tint the frosting before spreading it on your cookies.
- **Storage Tips**: Store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of apple or bread to help keep them soft.
By following these detailed steps, you'll be able to create delicious cherry snowball cookies that will surely delight everyone at your holiday gatherings. Enjoy crafting and sharing this sweet tradition!