Cherry Surprise Balls
Sweet cherry surprise balls feature a tender cookie exterior filled with a candied cherry, coated in powdered sugar. Perfect for festive occasions or as a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar, beating well.
- Gradually add flour, beating until blended.
- Stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
- Cover and chill the dough for 1 hour.
- Shape the dough around each candied cherry half to form a 3/4-inch ball.
- Place the balls 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
- While warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar.
- Cool on wire racks before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For easier handling, ensure your butter is very soft but not melted. If you're out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. You can also experiment with different flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut. If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the powdered sugar by a couple of tablespoons. Remember to chill the dough well, as this helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with a Fruit Tray Dip for a balanced snack spread. Consider serving them on a festive platter or alongside other cookies like Russian Honey Spice Cake to impress your guests during celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cherry Surprise Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh, place parchment paper between layers. If you want to enjoy them warm, reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until just warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Surprise Balls contains roughly 555 calories, with 1g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 50g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of candied ones?
Using fresh cherries is not recommended because they contain moisture that can affect the dough's consistency and baking. Candied cherries provide sweetness and a chewy texture that complements the cookie. However, you can use dried cherries for a different flavor profile if you prefer.
How can I make these cookies healthier?
If you're looking for a gluten-free version, substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for better texture. Always check the labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze Cherry Surprise Balls! After baking and rolling them in powdered sugar, allow them to cool completely. Store them in a single layer in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers, and they can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).