Cherry Pistachio Snowballs

Introduction
Looking for a unique, festive treat that’s perfect for holiday parties or just an indulgent snack? Cherry Pistachio Snowballs combine the bright, tart flavor of cherries with the rich, earthy taste of pistachios, all wrapped in a delicate powdered sugar coating. These melt-in-your-mouth, no-bake treats are easy to make and sure to impress friends and family with their vibrant color and irresistible flavor. Here’s how to make these delectable snowball cookies that are perfect for the winter season or any celebration.

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What Are Cherry Pistachio Snowballs?

Cherry Pistachio Snowballs are bite-sized, no-bake cookies that feature a delightful combination of dried cherries, crushed pistachios, and sweetened condensed milk. Rolled into small balls and coated in powdered sugar, they look like little snowballs, making them the ideal treat for holiday gatherings or a special winter indulgence. With the mix of tart cherries and crunchy pistachios, they offer a perfect balance of flavors.

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Why You’ll Love Cherry Pistachio Snowballs

• No Baking Required: These cookies are incredibly easy to make, and you don’t need to turn on your oven.
• Holiday Vibes: The bright red cherries and green pistachios give these snowballs a festive appearance, making them perfect for Christmas, New Year’s, or any holiday party.
• Great for Gifting: Packaged in a festive tin, these snowballs make a great homemade gift for friends, neighbors, or coworkers.
• Versatile: Customize the recipe by adding more or less pistachio, cherry, or even a hint of vanilla to suit your taste.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup of dried cherries: The sweet, tart flavor of dried cherries adds a chewy, flavorful contrast to the crunch of the pistachios.
• 1 cup of unsalted pistachios, chopped: Pistachios provide a nice crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the cherries.
• 1 can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed milk: This acts as the binding agent to hold everything together while adding a touch of sweetness.
• 1/2 cup of shredded coconut (optional): Adds a bit more texture and flavor to your snowballs.
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Powdered sugar: For rolling the snowballs to create that snowy effect.

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How to Make Cherry Pistachio Snowballs

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

• Start by chopping the dried cherries into small pieces. This will make them easier to mix into the dough.
• Chop the pistachios into small pieces. Be sure to leave some larger chunks for added texture in the final cookies.

1. Combine the Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cherries, pistachios, shredded coconut (if using), and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until evenly distributed.
2. Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk:
   Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk into the mixture and stir until the ingredients come together into a sticky dough. The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape when rolled into balls.
3. Roll Into Balls:
   Using your hands, form the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If the dough sticks to your hands, lightly wet your fingers to make rolling easier.
4. Coat with Powdered Sugar:
   Once all the snowballs are rolled, place them in a shallow dish filled with powdered sugar. Roll each ball around until completely coated. The powdered sugar will give the snowballs a soft, snowy appearance.
5. Chill and Set:
   Place the finished snowballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. Chilling them will help set the shape and make them even more delicious.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   After chilling, your Cherry Pistachio Snowballs are ready to serve! They can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time.

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Tips for the Perfect Cherry Pistachio Snowballs

• Flavor Variations: You can experiment by adding other ingredients like white chocolate chips or a hint of orange zest for an extra burst of flavor.
• Dried Fruit: If you don’t have dried cherries, dried cranberries or apricots make excellent alternatives.
• Nut Choices: Pistachios are the star of the show here, but if you prefer another nut, cashews or almonds can also work beautifully in this recipe.

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Serving Suggestions

• Gift Idea: Pack these snowballs in a cute tin or gift box and share them with friends and family. They make a thoughtful and tasty holiday gift.
• Holiday Party Treat: Serve Cherry Pistachio Snowballs on a festive platter at your next holiday gathering. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser alongside other desserts.
• Pairing Suggestions: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon treat.

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Conclusion

Cherry Pistachio Snowballs are the perfect festive treat that combines the sweet-tart flavor of cherries with the richness of pistachios, all enveloped in powdered sugar. With no baking required, they’re simple to make and a great addition to your holiday spread. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these snowballs will bring joy to every bite!

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Serving and Storage Tips for Cherry Pistachio Snowballs

Serving Tips:

1. Festive Platter:
   Serve your Cherry Pistachio Snowballs on a decorative platter at holiday parties or gatherings. Their vibrant colors—red cherries and green pistachios—will make them a stunning addition to any spread.
2. Gift Idea:
   Package these snowballs in a clear cellophane bag or a cute tin and tie with a ribbon for a personalized gift. These treats make thoughtful gifts for friends, family, and colleagues, especially during the holiday season.
3. Pairing:
   Pair Cherry Pistachio Snowballs with a warm drink like hot chocolate, spiced cider, or a cup of tea. Their sweetness and crunchy texture complement these cozy beverages beautifully.
4. On-the-Go Snack:
   These cookies are also a great option for an on-the-go snack. Pack them in a small container for a portable treat that’s both satisfying and festive.

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Storage Tips:

1. Airtight Container:
   After making the snowballs, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to one week. You can layer the cookies with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
2. Refrigeration:
   If you prefer your Cherry Pistachio Snowballs to be extra firm and chilled, keep them in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week when stored properly in a sealed container.
3. Freezing for Long-Term Storage:
   To store these snowballs for longer periods, freeze them. Arrange the snowballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours until they’re firm. Then, transfer the frozen snowballs to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
4. Preventing Moisture:
   Make sure the snowballs are fully coated in powdered sugar before storing them to help maintain their soft, snowy appearance. If stored for too long without a proper coating, the sugar may dissolve into the cookies, affecting both their texture and look.

By following these simple storage and serving tips, you can enjoy your Cherry Pistachio Snowballs fresh and delicious whenever you like!

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries for this recipe?
It’s best to use dried cherries for Cherry Pistachio Snowballs because they provide a chewy texture and concentrated flavor. Fresh cherries have too much moisture, which could affect the consistency of the dough. If you only have fresh cherries, you can dry them out in a low oven or dehydrate them before using them in this recipe.

2. Can I substitute pistachios with another nut?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of pistachios, you can easily substitute them with other nuts like almonds, cashews, or walnuts. Keep in mind that each nut will offer a different flavor and texture, but all will work well in this cookie.

3. How long do Cherry Pistachio Snowballs last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Cherry Pistachio Snowballs can last up to one week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them or freeze them for up to three months. Just be sure to let them thaw before serving if frozen.

4. Can I make these cookies ahead of time for a party or gift?
Yes! Cherry Pistachio Snowballs are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare them a few days in advance and store them in an airtight container. If you’re giving them as a gift, you can package them in a festive tin or gift box to make a thoughtful and delicious present.

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