These Christmas Cherry Balls are soft, cake-like cookies filled with festive maraschino cherries and topped with a fluffy cherry-infused frosting. The dough mixes into a tender, slightly sticky batter that bakes into pillowy cookies with delicate golden edges. Each bite brings sweet vanilla, a touch of almond, and pops of cherry flavor—all crowned with a creamy pink frosting. These cookies are perfect for holiday parties, gifting tins, or any moment you want a cheerful, eye-catching treat that tastes as festive as it looks.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
- 1 (15.25-ounce) box vanilla cake mix
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract)
- ½ cup maraschino cherries, finely chopped and well-drained
For the Frosting & Decoration
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice
- ¼ cup maraschino cherries, finely chopped and well-drained
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional for garnish)
