Irresistible Chocolate-Dusted Snowballs for the Holidays

Imagine a cozy winter evening: soft snow falling outside, a warm mug of cocoa in hand, and the gentle aroma of freshly baked cookies filling your kitchen. There’s something magical about baking during the holidays, and nothing embodies this feeling better than snowball cookies. Known for their delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture and generous dusting of chocolate, these treats are the perfect combination of elegance and comfort.

Inspired by classic holiday traditions, snowball cookies have been a staple in kitchens around the world for generations. Whether they are passed down through families or shared with friends as a thoughtful gift, their charm lies in their simplicity and delightful flavor. This recipe brings together the perfect buttery base with a hint of vanilla and a coating of rich chocolate, creating a festive treat that everyone will love. These chocolate-dusted snowballs are more than just cookies—they are an experience, a moment of joy captured in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts (optional, such as pecans or walnuts)

• 1/2 cup cocoa powder, for dusting

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking.

2. Cream the butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a tender, airy texture.

3. Add the vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.

4. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, blending until fully incorporated. The dough should be soft but firm enough to hold its shape.

5. Fold in the nuts, if using. Chopped nuts add a subtle crunch that complements the soft cookie base.

6. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The cookies will still be soft in the center; this is normal and ensures they stay tender.

8. Cool slightly on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring the cookies to a wire rack.

9. Dust with cocoa powder and a light sprinkling of powdered sugar while the cookies are still warm. This creates a beautiful snowy effect, enhancing the festive presentation.

10. Serve or store: Enjoy your snowballs fresh or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage.

Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies

• Use room temperature butter: This ensures the dough creames properly and results in a light, tender cookie.

• Don’t overbake: Snowball cookies should remain soft inside. Overbaking will make them dry.

• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking for a firmer cookie that holds its shape better.

• Experiment with nuts: Pecans, walnuts, or almonds all bring unique flavors. You can also leave them out for a nut-free version.

• Rolling in powdered sugar while warm: This gives the cookies a delicate, snowy coating that is signature to snowballs.

Why These Cookies Are Perfect for the Holidays

Snowball cookies are a holiday classic for a reason. Their delicate flavor and elegant presentation make them suitable for any festive occasion, from family gatherings to office parties. Unlike many holiday treats, they are simple to make but feel indulgent and sophisticated. Their bite-sized shape makes them perfect for snacking, gift-giving, or even decorating dessert platters.

The combination of buttery dough, a hint of vanilla, and chocolate dusting appeals to all ages, ensuring that everyone at the table will reach for seconds. Their snowy appearance also makes them visually stunning, adding a festive touch to your holiday spread.

Pairing Ideas

Snowball cookies pair beautifully with a variety of beverages and desserts. Consider serving them with:

• A warm cup of cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat

• A glass of milk for a classic flavor combination

• Hot chocolate with a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra holiday warmth

• On a dessert platter with other holiday cookies for an impressive presentation

They can also be included in cookie gift jars or wrapped in festive packaging for neighbors, coworkers, or friends.

Creative Variations

• Chocolate Chip Snowballs: Mix mini chocolate chips into the dough for extra chocolatey bites.

• Coconut Snowballs: Roll the baked cookies in shredded coconut before dusting with powdered sugar for a tropical twist.

• Spiced Snowballs: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor perfect for winter.

• Lemon Snowballs: Incorporate lemon zest and a touch of lemon juice into the dough for a bright, refreshing flavor.

These variations allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste or the theme of your holiday gathering while keeping the classic snowy appearance intact.

Storage Tips

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and texture of snowball cookies:

• Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 7 days.

• Freezing: Layer the cookies in a freezer-safe container separated by parchment paper for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Warm the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore a freshly baked texture.

These storage methods make snowball cookies an excellent option for holiday prep, allowing you to bake ahead and still enjoy fresh-tasting treats.

The Joy of Baking Snowballs

Baking is about more than just following a recipe—it’s about creating memories. Snowball cookies are ideal for involving kids in the kitchen, letting them shape the dough or sprinkle the chocolate and powdered sugar. The sensory experience of rolling dough, smelling the vanilla and butter, and watching the cookies take shape in the oven brings a sense of satisfaction and nostalgia.

Whether you are baking for a holiday party, gifting to friends and neighbors, or simply treating yourself to a cozy evening, snowball cookies are a versatile and joyful choice. Their classic flavor and charming presentation make them a recipe you’ll return to year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! Snowball cookies are a great choice if you want to get a head start on your holiday baking or prepare treats for a special event. In fact, these cookies often benefit from a little resting time after baking. You can prepare and bake them a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Letting the cookies sit allows the flavors to meld, intensifying the buttery, vanilla-rich taste and giving the cookies a slightly firmer yet tender texture. If you prefer, you can even shape the dough into balls ahead of time and refrigerate them for several hours or overnight before baking. This not only helps the cookies hold their shape but also makes your baking process on the day of serving faster and more convenient. Pre-baking preparation like this is perfect for busy holiday schedules, ensuring you have fresh-tasting cookies ready to enjoy or share.

Can I freeze snowball cookies?
Yes! Snowball cookies freeze wonderfully and retain their texture and flavor when stored properly. After the cookies have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag, using parchment paper to separate layers so they don’t stick together. You can freeze them for up to three months, which makes them ideal for holiday gift-giving or meal prepping ahead of a party. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply allow the cookies to thaw at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes. For the best presentation, lightly dust them with cocoa powder or powdered sugar after thawing. You can also freeze the cookie dough itself, shaping it into balls before freezing. When needed, bake the frozen dough straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This method gives you freshly baked cookies anytime without extra effort.

Can I make these cookies nut-free?
Definitely! While traditional snowball cookies often include finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, they are completely optional. If you or your guests have nut allergies or prefer a smoother texture, you can simply omit the nuts. The cookies will still have the signature buttery, tender consistency that makes them irresistible. For those who want to add a little texture without using nuts, you can experiment with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds, lightly toasted for added flavor. This variation keeps the cookie enjoyable while accommodating dietary needs, making them safe and delicious for everyone at your table.

How can I make these cookies extra chocolatey?
If you’re a chocolate lover, there are several ways to elevate these snowball cookies. One simple approach is to mix a few tablespoons of cocoa powder directly into the dough, creating a richer, chocolate-infused base before baking. Another option is to drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies, creating an elegant, dessert-like finish. You can even combine both methods—adding cocoa to the dough and finishing with a light chocolate drizzle—to satisfy any chocolate craving. Additionally, rolling the cookies in a mixture of cocoa and powdered sugar before serving enhances both the flavor and visual appeal, giving them a decadent, snow-dusted look.

Conclusion

Irresistible chocolate-dusted snowballs are more than just a holiday cookie—they’re a symbol of warmth, tradition, and festive cheer. Easy to make, yet elegant and flavorful, they are perfect for any occasion, from quiet nights at home to bustling holiday celebrations. By following this recipe, you’ll create tender, buttery cookies coated in chocolatey perfection, delighting anyone lucky enough to taste them.

Bring a little magic to your holidays with these snowball cookies. They are guaranteed to become a beloved part of your seasonal baking, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your home with joy. Bake a batch today and experience the cozy charm and delicious flavor that only chocolate-dusted snowballs can deliver.

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 24-30 cookies 1x

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Description

A perfect treat for cozy winter evenings or festive holiday gatherings, these chocolate-dusted snowball cookies are buttery, tender, and melt in your mouth. Inspired by classic holiday traditions, they combine a soft, flavorful base with a delicate chocolate coating, making them an irresistible addition to your dessert table or gift baskets.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts (optional, such as pecans or walnuts)

• 1/2 cup cocoa powder, for dusting

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Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

• Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, blending until fully incorporated.

• Fold in the nuts if using.

• Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.

• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.

• Allow cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

• While still warm, dust with cocoa powder and a light sprinkling of powdered sugar.

• Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

• Use room temperature butter for a tender, airy cookie texture.

• Avoid overbaking to keep cookies soft inside.

• Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help the cookies hold their shape.

• Experiment with nuts or seeds for added texture, or leave them out for a nut-free version.

• Dust with powdered sugar while warm for the classic snowy appearance.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes

Michelle Davis