Imagine a crisp winter evening, the scent of freshly baked treats filling your home, and a warm cup of cocoa in your hands. There’s something undeniably comforting about the first bite of a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookie. White Chocolate Snowballs are a perfect treat for such moments. These cookies combine the richness of white chocolate with a buttery base, gently dusted with powdered sugar, evoking the image of freshly fallen snow.
This recipe was inspired by a tradition in many households where cookies are baked for gatherings, whether it’s a holiday celebration, a weekend treat, or just a cozy night in. Their simple elegance makes them ideal for gifting, serving at tea parties, or enjoying as a personal indulgence. Once you try these snowballs, they are sure to become a favorite for any season.
Ingredients
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for rolling
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 cup white chocolate chips, finely chopped
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1/2 cup finely chopped nuts (optional, like macadamia or almonds)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
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In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
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Fold in the white chocolate chips and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
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Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, shape the dough into small balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden but the cookies remain soft.
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Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still slightly warm.
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Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Roll them in powdered sugar once more for a beautiful, snowy finish.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Notes
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Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; thaw at room temperature before serving.
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Variations: Add a hint of citrus zest, such as orange or lemon, to the dough for a subtle, refreshing twist. You can also swap nuts or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
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Tips: Ensure butter is softened, not melted, to achieve the perfect texture. Overmixing the dough can result in dense cookies, so fold ingredients gently.
Why These White Chocolate Snowballs Stand Out
White Chocolate Snowballs are not just another cookie—they are an experience. Their soft, buttery texture contrasts beautifully with the sweet, creamy white chocolate, creating a luxurious bite. The powdered sugar coating adds a touch of elegance, making these cookies visually appealing and perfect for presentation. Unlike overly sweet desserts, these cookies offer a balanced flavor that delights without overwhelming the palate.
Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for a delightful afternoon treat, these snowballs bring a touch of sophistication and nostalgia to your table. Their simplicity allows the quality of ingredients, especially the white chocolate, to shine through, making every bite satisfying.
Tips for Baking Perfect White Chocolate Snowballs
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Use Quality White Chocolate: The flavor of the cookie largely depends on the chocolate you choose. Opt for high-quality white chocolate chips or bars for the best taste.
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Chill the Dough (Optional): If the dough feels too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes. This helps maintain the shape of the cookies during baking.
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Even Sizing: Using a cookie scoop ensures uniform cookies that bake evenly.
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Double Coating: For an extra snow-like appearance, roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice—once right out of the oven and once after cooling.
Pairing Ideas
White Chocolate Snowballs pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages and desserts:
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A warm mug of hot chocolate or cocoa enhances the wintery feel of the cookies.
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Tea or coffee complements the buttery sweetness without overpowering it.
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Serve alongside fresh fruit or berries for a balanced contrast to the richness of the cookies.
Occasions to Enjoy White Chocolate Snowballs
While these cookies shine during winter and holiday gatherings, their appeal is not limited to any single season. Here are a few occasions where they’re perfect:
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Holiday Parties: Their snowball appearance makes them a festive addition to any dessert table.
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Gift Giving: Pack them in decorative boxes or tins for a thoughtful homemade gift.
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Afternoon Tea: Impress guests with a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth treat.
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Weekend Treats: A cozy night in calls for indulgent, homemade cookies without the fuss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! White Chocolate Snowballs are perfect for preparing in advance, making them a convenient option for busy schedules, holiday gatherings, or special occasions. You can mix, shape, and even bake them a day before you plan to serve them. Once baked, store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and fresh. Preparing them ahead also allows the flavors to meld beautifully—the buttery dough and creamy white chocolate combine more thoroughly, giving each bite a richer, more indulgent taste.
If you want to plan even further ahead, these cookies freeze exceptionally well. Simply place the cooled, powdered-sugar-coated snowballs in a sealed container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months without losing their texture or flavor. When it’s time to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature. For a fresh, snow-dusted appearance, you can roll them in powdered sugar again after thawing. This makes them an excellent choice for gifting, holiday prep, or keeping on hand for unexpected guests.
Can I substitute the nuts or leave them out?
Yes! Nuts in this recipe are entirely optional and can be adjusted to your personal preference or dietary needs. Common choices like macadamias, pecans, or cashews add a lovely crunch and subtle flavor, but the cookies are just as delightful without them. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts entirely—this will still yield soft, tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies.
If you do want to switch nuts, consider lightly toasting them before adding to the dough for an extra layer of flavor. Chopped nuts also provide a nice contrast to the creamy white chocolate, but the key texture and taste of the snowballs remain intact even without them. This flexibility ensures that everyone, including those with nut allergies or preferences, can enjoy these cookies.
What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
Powdered sugar is a signature element of White Chocolate Snowballs, giving them that classic “snow-dusted” look and soft, delicate coating. If you don’t have powdered sugar on hand, you can use finely granulated sugar as a substitute, but the texture and appearance will be slightly different. Granulated sugar won’t adhere as evenly, and the cookies may lack that characteristic snowy finish.
However, the flavor and softness of the cookies won’t be compromised. For the best results and authentic appearance, it’s recommended to use powdered sugar whenever possible.
How do I store these cookies to keep them fresh?
To maintain freshness and flavor, store your White Chocolate Snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to one week, making them perfect for weekly treats or sharing with family and friends.
For longer storage, these cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a sealed container or freezer bag and keep them frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature. Re-rolling them in powdered sugar after thawing will restore their signature snowball look and add a fresh, inviting touch. Proper storage ensures these cookies remain tender, flavorful, and irresistible every time.
Final Thoughts
White Chocolate Snowballs Everyone Will Love are more than just cookies—they are a celebration of flavor, texture, and tradition. Easy to make, visually stunning, and irresistible to taste, they bring warmth and joy to any occasion. Their versatility makes them a staple recipe that every home baker should have in their repertoire.
Whether you’re baking for loved ones, gifting them to friends, or treating yourself on a quiet evening, these snowballs are guaranteed to impress. The combination of buttery dough, creamy white chocolate, and the delicate snowy coating creates a cookie experience that is timeless, comforting, and utterly satisfying.
Indulge in these White Chocolate Snowballs, and let every bite remind you why homemade cookies hold such a special place in our hearts. Share them, savor them, and make them a tradition in your home—they are a treat that everyone will love.
Print
White Chocolate Snowballs Everyone Will Love
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Imagine a cozy afternoon with the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling your home. White Chocolate Snowballs are delicate, buttery treats with creamy white chocolate pieces and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Gently dusted with powdered sugar, these cookies look like little snowballs, making them perfect for holidays, special gatherings, or a simple indulgent treat. Inspired by timeless traditions of homemade cookies, they are simple to make, irresistible to taste, and ideal for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for rolling
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 cups all-purpose flour
-
1/4 teaspoon salt
-
1 cup white chocolate chips, finely chopped
-
1/2 cup finely chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
-
Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.
-
Fold in white chocolate chips and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
-
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, shape the dough into small balls and place 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
-
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden but cookies remain soft.
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Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while slightly warm.
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Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely and roll again in powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
Notes
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze for up to three months.
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Optional: Add a hint of orange or lemon zest for a subtle twist.
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Use softened, not melted, butter for the best texture.
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Roll the cookies twice in powdered sugar for a perfect snowball effect.
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- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
