10 Cherry Snowball Cookie Recipes for Holiday Treats

Emma A. Edwards

10 Cherry Snowball Cookie Recipes for Holiday Treats

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This holiday season always brings a special warmth that reminds me of cheerful gatherings and irresistible smells wafting through the kitchen. One treat that captures that festive spirit is the beloved cherry snowball cookie. These delightful little bites, often dusted with powdered sugar, are not just a feast for the eyes; they’re a delicious way to bring a pop of color and flavor to your holiday baking. If you’re someone who enjoys making sweet memories in the kitchen, this post is for you.

I’ve pulled together 10 cherry snowball cookie recipes that are gluten-free and bursting with holiday cheer. Whether you’re looking for traditional flavors or fun twists, these recipes are easy to follow and perfect for sharing with loved ones. From classic versions to unique variations like chocolate-dipped or vegan options, you’ll find something here that suits your taste and dietary preferences. Get ready to bake up some joy and celebrate the season with these festive cookies that everyone will love!

Key Takeaways

– The recipes include a variety of flavors, from classic to unique twists, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

– Each cookie recipe is gluten-free, making them accessible for those with dietary restrictions.

– Preparing cherry snowball cookies is a fun and simple activity, perfect for family bonding during the holidays.

– These cookies are ideal for holiday treats and can be easily packaged for gifting to friends and neighbors.

– Using cherries adds a delightful burst of flavor that complements the sweet, buttery base of the cookies.

How To Choose The Right Cherry Snowball Cookie Recipe

When selecting a cherry snowball cookie recipe, consider the following factors to ensure you pick the perfect one for your holiday gatherings.

1. Flavor Profile: Decide on the flavor you want. Classic recipes often include vanilla and nuts, while unique variations might add ingredients like chocolate or lemon. Think about what flavors you and your guests enjoy.

2. Dietary Needs: Check if anyone has dietary restrictions. Since all recipes in this guide are gluten-free, you’re already off to a great start, but consider if you need nut-free or vegan options as well.

3. Preparation Time: Some recipes are quicker than others. If you’re short on time, look for no-bake versions or those that don’t require chilling.

4. Ingredients Availability: Ensure you have access to all the ingredients. Cherry snowball cookies can be made with fresh or dried cherries, so pick what you can easily find.

5. Complexity: Some recipes are straightforward, while others might have extra steps for added flair. Choose one that matches your skill level in the kitchen to avoid frustration.

Pro Tip: Consider making a test batch of a couple of different recipes. This way, you can find your favorite before the big baking day!

How Do Cherry Snowball Cookies Work?

Cherry snowball cookies are simple to prepare, making them an excellent choice for holiday baking. Here’s a brief overview of how these cookies come together.

1. Mix the Dough: Start by combining butter, sugar, and any extracts. Add gluten-free flour and crushed nuts. Finally, fold in the cherries to ensure even distribution.

2. Shape the Cookies: Once your dough is ready, roll them into small balls. Keep them uniform in size for even baking.

3. Chill the Dough: Chill the dough for about 30 minutes to help the cookies hold their shape during baking.

4. Bake Until Golden: Place the dough balls on a baking sheet and bake until lightly golden and set.

5. Dust with Sugar: After they cool, roll the cookies in powdered sugar for that signature snowball look!

Best for: Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift for friends and family.

How To Use Cherry in Your Snowball Cookies

Incorporating cherries into your snowball cookies can elevate the overall flavor and texture. Here’s how to make the most out of this lovely fruit.

Tools You’ll Need:

– Mixing bowls

– Baking sheets

– Parchment paper

– Measuring cups and spoons

– Rolling pin

Step 1: Choose Your Cherry Type

You can use fresh, frozen, or dried cherries. Each type offers a different texture and flavor, so pick one that suits your preference.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherries

If using fresh or frozen cherries, ensure they are pitted and chopped. For dried cherries, simply chop them into smaller pieces if necessary.

Step 3: Fold into Dough

As you mix your dough, add the chopped cherries gently. This ensures even distribution without breaking them apart.

Step 4: Adjust for Moisture

If using fresh cherries, consider reducing the butter slightly to account for the extra moisture they add to the dough.

Step 5: Taste Test!

Before shaping your cookies, taste the dough. This will give you a chance to see if you want to add more sugar or flavoring.

⏱ Time: ~15 minutes prep | 💡 Tip: Save some cherries to sprinkle on top before baking for an extra touch!

1. Classic Gluten-Free Cherry Snowball Cookies

10 Cherry Snowball Cookie Recipes for Holiday Treats - 1. Classic Gluten-Free Cherry Snowball Cookies 1

Craving a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth treat? These classic cherry snowball cookies bring the perfect combination of buttery goodness and sweet-tart cherries. Plus, they’re gluten-free, so everyone can indulge without worry! Enjoy the rich flavor and soft texture that makes each bite delightful and satisfying, with the added bonus of being easy to whip up in no time.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup coconut flour
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained
– Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually mix in almond and coconut flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
4. Gently fold in the chopped cherries.
5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden at the edges.
7. Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.

FAQs:
– Can I use fresh cherries? Yes, but make sure to chop and pit them first!

Classic Gluten-Free Cherry Snowball Cookies

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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:32 AM

2. Chocolate-Dipped Cherry Snowball Cookies

10 Cherry Snowball Cookie Recipes for Holiday Treats - 2. Chocolate-Dipped Cherry Snowball Cookies 1

Feeling adventurous with your holiday baking? These chocolate-dipped cherry snowball cookies take the classic recipe to a whole new level! The combination of rich chocolate and sweet cherries creates a treat that’s truly irresistible. Perfect for cookie platters or as a special gift, these cookies are simple to make and a delight to eat.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup coconut flour
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
– Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Stir in almond and coconut flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold in the cherries.
4. Roll dough into balls and place on the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler until smooth.
7. Dip cooled cookies halfway in the melted chocolate and place them on parchment paper to set.
8. Dust with powdered sugar once the chocolate hardens.

FAQs:
– Can I make these without chocolate? Certainly, they’re delicious on their own as well!

Chocolate-Dipped Cherry Snowball Cookies

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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:32 AM

3. Coconut Cherry Snowball Cookies

10 Cherry Snowball Cookie Recipes for Holiday Treats - 3. Coconut Cherry Snowball Cookies 1

If you’re dreaming of a tropical escape, these coconut cherry snowball cookies are your ticket! The chewy texture of coconut perfectly complements the sweetness of cherries, creating a delightful cookie that transports you to sunny shores. These treats are not only delicious but also fun to make, bringing a burst of flavor to your holiday gatherings.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained
– Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter and powdered sugar in a bowl until fluffy.
3. Add almond flour, shredded coconut, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
4. Gently fold in the cherries into the dough.
5. Roll dough into balls and place on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden but soft.
7. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

FAQs:
– What if I can’t find shredded coconut? You can substitute it with finely chopped nuts for a different texture!

Fun fact: 65% of holiday bakers reach for coconut flavors, and coconut cherry snowball cookies deliver that tropical twist. One batch makes about 24 bite-sized treats, perfect for sharing, with almond flour keeping them gluten-free and delicious.

Coconut Cherry Snowball Cookies

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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:32 AM

4. Cherry Almond Snowball Cookies

10 Cherry Snowball Cookie Recipes for Holiday Treats - 4. Cherry Almond Snowball Cookies 1

Looking for a cookie that combines nutty goodness with fruity sweetness? These cherry almond snowball cookies are just what you need! The almond flour adds a delightful flavor that beautifully complements the tartness of cherries, making these cookies a must-try. They’re perfect for your holiday cookie tray or as a sweet gift for loved ones.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 tsp almond extract
– 1/4 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained
– Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Cream together the butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Stir in almond flour, almond extract, baking powder, and salt until combined.
4. Gently fold in the chopped cherries.
5. Roll into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
7. Dust with powdered sugar after cooling slightly.

FAQs:
– Can I make these cookies with other extracts? Absolutely! Vanilla or hazelnut can work well too.

Cherry Almond Snowball Cookies

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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:32 AM

Recipe Name Key Ingredients Cost Dietary Options
Classic Gluten-Free Cherry Snowball Cookies Almond flour, cherries $29.99 Gluten-free
Chocolate-Dipped Cherry Snowball Cookies Almond flour, chocolate $23.00 Gluten-free
Coconut Cherry Snowball Cookies Almond flour, coconut $23.96 Gluten-free
Vegan Cherry Snowball Cookies Almond flour, coconut oil $29.99 Vegan, gluten-free
Spiced Cherry Snowball Cookies Almond flour, spices $60.75 Gluten-free
No-Bake Cherry Snowball Cookies Almond flour, coconut $38.99 Gluten-free, quick
Maraschino Cherry Snowball Cookies Almond flour, maraschino cherries $49.98 Gluten-free

5. Lemon Cherry Snowball Cookies

10 Cherry Snowball Cookie Recipes for Holiday Treats - 5. Lemon Cherry Snowball Cookies 1

Brighten up your holiday festivities with these lemon cherry snowball cookies! The zesty lemon adds a refreshing twist that balances the sweetness of the cherries beautifully. These cookies are not only delicious but also bring a cheerful pop of flavor to any dessert table, making them a delightful choice for celebrating special moments.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained
– Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the lemon juice, followed by almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Carefully fold in the cherries.
5. Roll the dough into balls and place them on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15 minutes until cookies are set but not browned.
7. Dust with powdered sugar once cooled.

FAQs:
– Can I use bottled lemon juice? Yes, but fresh juice yields the best flavor!

Lemon Cherry Snowball Cookies

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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:34 AM

6. Maraschino Cherry Snowball Cookies

10 Cherry Snowball Cookie Recipes for Holiday Treats - 6. Maraschino Cherry Snowball Cookies 1

Add a splash of color to your holiday treats with maraschino cherry snowball cookies! These fun, vibrant cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a hit at any festive gathering. With their sweet flavor and soft texture, these cookies are sure to delight everyone, young and old alike.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
– Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
3. Add almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.
4. Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries carefully.
5. Shape the dough into balls and place them on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15 minutes until cookies are set and golden.
7. Dust with powdered sugar once cooled.

FAQs:
– Are these cookies good for freezing? Yes, they freeze well; just make sure to store them in an airtight container.

Fun fact: maraschino cherry snowball cookies can brighten any holiday tray with just 24 bite-sized treats per batch. Their vibrant color and melt-in-your-mouth texture turn ordinary dessert time into a celebration. Pro tip: a light dusting of powdered sugar makes them even more festive.

Maraschino Cherry Snowball Cookies

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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:34 AM

7. Pistachio Cherry Snowball Cookies

10 Cherry Snowball Cookie Recipes for Holiday Treats - 7. Pistachio Cherry Snowball Cookies 1

Elevate your cookie game with these pistachio cherry snowball cookies! The delightful combination of nutty pistachios and sweet cherries adds a unique flair to your holiday baking. These cookies are not only tasty but also a beautiful addition to your dessert table, impressing guests with their distinctive flavor and texture.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup finely chopped pistachios
– 1/4 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained
– Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. In a bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
3. Stir in almond flour, baking powder, salt, and chopped pistachios.
4. Gently fold in the chopped cherries to avoid breaking them.
5. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Dust with powdered sugar once cooled.

FAQs:
– Can I substitute pistachios with other nuts? Yes, walnuts or pecans would also work well!

Pistachio Cherry Snowball Cookies

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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:33 AM

8. No-Bake Cherry Snowball Cookies

10 Cherry Snowball Cookie Recipes for Holiday Treats - 8. No-Bake Cherry Snowball Cookies 1

Short on time but still want a tasty treat? These no-bake cherry snowball cookies are the answer! Quick and easy to make, these delightful bites are perfect for busy holiday seasons when you want something sweet without the fuss. Made with simple ingredients, they’re a refreshing and satisfying snack that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– Extra shredded coconut for coating

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine almond flour, shredded coconut, powdered sugar, and chopped cherries.
2. Pour in the melted coconut oil and mix until well combined.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls and then roll them in shredded coconut.
4. Place on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. Enjoy chilled as a sweet treat!

FAQs:
– Can I substitute coconut oil? Yes, melted butter or any neutral oil can work as well.

No-Bake Cherry Snowball Cookies

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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:33 AM

9. Spiced Cherry Snowball Cookies

10 Cherry Snowball Cookie Recipes for Holiday Treats - 9. Spiced Cherry Snowball Cookies 1

Bring warmth to your holiday baking with spiced cherry snowball cookies! The addition of cozy spices creates a delightful flavor that’s perfect for cold winter days. These cookies are not only deliciously aromatic but also visually appealing, making them an excellent choice for festive gatherings.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp allspice
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained
– Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add almond flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt into the mixture. Combine thoroughly.
4. Gently fold in the chopped cherries.
5. Roll into small balls and place them on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15 minutes until they are set and lightly golden.
7. Dust with powdered sugar after cooling.

FAQs:
– Can I use dried cherries instead? Yes, but make sure to hydrate them a bit before adding.

Spiced Cherry Snowball Cookies

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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:34 AM

10. Vegan Cherry Snowball Cookies

10 Cherry Snowball Cookie Recipes for Holiday Treats - 10. Vegan Cherry Snowball Cookies 1

Looking for a festive treat that’s kind to the planet? Try these vegan cherry snowball cookies! They maintain all the delightful flavors and fluffiness of traditional cookies while being completely plant-based. Perfect for gatherings where everyone can enjoy a sweet bite, these cookies are easy to make and a real crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1/4 cup almond milk
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained
– Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. In a bowl, mix melted coconut oil, almond milk, and vanilla extract together.
3. Add in almond flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix until combined.
4. Fold in cherries carefully.
5. Roll dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15 minutes or until slightly golden.
7. Dust with powdered sugar once cooled.

FAQs:
– Can I use other plant-based milks? Yes, any non-dairy milk will work!

When you want cookies that everyone can enjoy, vegan cherry snowball cookies save the day. They’re gluten-free, plant-based, and easy to make with pantry staples—perfect for holiday gatherings.

Vegan Cherry Snowball Cookies

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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:36 AM

💡

Key Takeaways

Essential tips from this article

🍪

BEGINNER

Classic Base Recipe

Start with the classic gluten-free cherry snowball cookie recipe for a strong foundation before experimenting with variations.

🍫

QUICK WIN

Add Chocolate

Enhance flavor by dipping your cookies in chocolate, adding richness and a delightful texture contrast.

🥥

PRO TIP

Incorporate Coconut

Try coconut in your cherry snowball cookies for a tropical twist that complements the cherries beautifully.

🍋

ADVANCED

Citrus Zest Boost

Add lemon zest to your cherry snowball cookies for a refreshing and bright flavor that elevates the taste.

🌱

ADVANCED

Go Vegan

Opt for vegan cherry snowball cookies by replacing eggs and dairy with plant-based alternatives for a healthier treat.

❄️

QUICK WIN

No-Bake Option

Consider no-bake cherry snowball cookies for a quick, hassle-free holiday treat that requires minimal preparation.

Conclusion

10 Cherry Snowball Cookie Recipes for Holiday Treats - Conclusion 1

Cherry snowball cookies bring flair and flavor to any holiday celebration. With variations that cater to every palate, from classic favorites to unique twists, there’s a recipe here for everyone. Whether you bake them for family gatherings or enjoy them as a personal treat, these cookies are sure to spread sweetness and joy this season.

Which recipe will you try first? Share your holiday baking adventures with us!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes cherry snowball cookies gluten-free and how can I keep them tender?

Cherry snowball cookies stay tender when you choose a quality gluten-free flour blend and a touch of cornstarch for lightness.

Recommended ratios: 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour plus 2 tablespoons cornstarch, with optional 2 tablespoons finely ground almond flour for extra tenderness.

Cream butter and powdered sugar until pale and fluffy, then mix in dry ingredients just until combined. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to make shaping easier, then roll into small balls and bake until the edges are just set. Roll hot cookies in powdered sugar for the classic snowy coating while they’re still warm.

Can I customize cherry snowball cookies for different holiday flavors?

Absolutely! Try folding in white chocolate chips or swapping dried cherries for cranberries for a festive twist.

Add a pinch of orange or almond extract, or incorporate citrus zest to brighten the flavor, then finish with a colored sugar dusting or shredded coconut for a festive look.

These tweaks keep the cookies gluten-free and perfect for holiday baking and a lively assortment of festive cookies and cherry desserts.

How should I store and freeze gluten-free cherry snowball cookies for holiday treats?

Store gluten-free cherry snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days, or freeze for longer holiday treats.

If freezing, arrange unbaked dough balls on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a bag and bake from frozen for quick prep.

Baked cookies can be kept in the freezer for 1-2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving. To prevent the coating from becoming sticky, add a fresh dusting of powdered sugar just before serving.

What ingredients are essential for perfect gluten-free cherry snowball cookies?

The essential ingredients are a gluten-free flour blend, a small amount of cornstarch, powdered sugar for sweetness and coating, and real butter for flavor.

Also add chopped dried cherries or cherry bits for the signature bite, plus a splash of vanilla and a pinch of salt. For tenderness, include a touch of almond flour or adjust moisture by choosing a fine grind. Ensure the dough is properly chilled and not overmixed to keep the cookies light and crumbly.

What are common mistakes to avoid when making gluten-free cherry snowball cookies?

Common mistakes include not chilling the dough, which makes shaping difficult and results in flat cookies.

Overmixing the batter can break down crumbs in gluten-free blends and lead to a dense crumb. Using too much moisture from fresh cherries or added juice can cause cracking or spreading.

Underbaking leaves centers soft and crumbly; bake until the edges are set. Also, coat in powdered sugar while the cookies are still warm for that classic snowy finish.

Related Topics

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