Cherry Pistachio Snowballs – A Festive, Nutty Delight for the Holidays
If you’re searching for the perfect holiday cookie recipe that’s both visually stunning and delicious, Cherry Pistachio Snowballs are a must-try. These delightful cookies bring together the rich flavors of pistachios and the tartness of cherries, rolled in a sweet layer of powdered sugar that mimics a snowy finish. Perfect for gift-giving or holiday parties, these snowball cookies offer a delightful twist on classic holiday treats.
For more festive holiday treats, don’t miss our Peanut Butter Blossoms, which make a delicious addition to any holiday cookie platter.
Why You’ll Love Cherry Pistachio Snowballs
- Visually Festive: The vibrant green of pistachios and the red of cherries make these cookies ideal for holiday gatherings.
- Deliciously Nutty and Fruity: The combination of buttery pistachios and tangy cherries creates a balanced flavor.
- Simple to Make: With just a few steps, these cookies are easy to prepare, making them a great recipe for holiday baking.
For more nut-based holiday recipes, try our Pistachio Shortbread Cookies, which bring a rich, buttery flavor to any dessert table.
Ingredients for Cherry Pistachio Snowballs
Creating these delicious snowballs requires a handful of ingredients that you may already have in your pantry.
Core Ingredients
- Unsalted Butter: For a rich, tender cookie.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and is perfect for rolling the cookies.
- All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure of the cookie.
- Pistachios: Adds a nutty flavor and a vibrant green color.
- Chopped Cherries: Use dried cherries or maraschino cherries for a pop of color and flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cookie.
Tip: For a more intense cherry flavor, consider using a few drops of cherry extract along with vanilla.
Optional Additions
- Almond Extract: Pairs beautifully with cherries and pistachios.
- Salted Butter: If using salted butter, reduce or omit additional salt.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Cherry Pistachio Snowballs
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Soften the Butter: Leave the butter out at room temperature until softened, which will help with mixing.
- Chop the Cherries and Pistachios: Finely chop for even distribution throughout the cookies.
2. Make the Dough
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients: Mix in vanilla, flour, and salt until a dough forms. Gently fold in the cherries and pistachios.
For more easy holiday baking ideas, check out our Easy No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake, a delightful dessert that’s as simple as it is delicious.
3. Shaping and Baking the Cookies
- Form the Dough Balls: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
4. Roll in Powdered Sugar
- Cool and Roll: Once cooled, roll each cookie in powdered sugar. For a snowy look, double-roll them after the first layer has settled.
Serving Suggestions
- Holiday Cookie Platter: Arrange these cookies with other festive treats for a beautiful holiday spread.
- Gift-Worthy Packaging: Place the snowballs in a festive tin lined with wax paper as a perfect gift idea.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve with coffee, tea, or a holiday cocktail like eggnog for a cozy treat.
For more holiday cookie ideas, check out our Classic Apple Dumplings, a perfect fall and winter dessert.
Creative Variations of Cherry Pistachio Snowballs
Different Nut Options
- Almonds or Walnuts: Substitute pistachios with almonds or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Alternative Flavors
- Add Zest: Orange or lemon zest can add a refreshing twist to the cookie dough.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of white or dark chocolate adds a bit of indulgence to the cookies.
For a fruity dessert with a twist, try our Raspberry Lemon Bars, which combines tart and sweet flavors in every bite.
Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for 15–20 minutes helps prevent spreading.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh pistachios and high-quality cherries make a difference.
- Double Roll in Sugar: To achieve the snowy effect, roll the cookies twice in powdered sugar.
For more cookie-baking tips, explore our Ultimate Guide to Perfect French Bread Pizza, which includes techniques for achieving ideal textures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh cherries in these cookies?
It’s best to use dried cherries as fresh ones have too much moisture, which can affect the texture.
2. How do I store cherry pistachio snowballs?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
3. Can I make these cookies without nuts?
Yes, you can omit pistachios if needed, though they add a unique flavor and texture.
4. Do I have to roll them in powdered sugar twice?
Double-rolling helps the powdered sugar stick and gives them their signature snowy appearance.
For more storage tips, see our No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake, a dessert that’s perfect for make-ahead holiday preparations.
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For additional holiday treats, explore Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats for a quick, sweet treat.
Conclusion
Cherry Pistachio Snowballs offer a festive, unique twist on classic snowball cookies, making them an ideal addition to any holiday gathering. With their blend of nutty pistachios, tart cherries, and a dusting of powdered sugar, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious.
For more holiday baking ideas, be sure to try our Strawberry Lemon Bars or Mom’s Lemon Cream Pie for citrusy dessert options that are sure to impress.
