The Best Cinnamon Snowball Cookies Ever

There’s something undeniably comforting about the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen. Imagine a quiet, cozy evening with a cup of hot tea or coffee in hand, a soft blanket around your shoulders, and a plate of freshly baked cookies within reach. This is exactly the moment the best Cinnamon Snowball Cookies ever were made for.

Inspired by timeless cookie traditions passed down through generations, these cookies bring together the perfect balance of soft, buttery texture and the gentle warmth of cinnamon. Unlike ordinary cookies, they melt in your mouth and leave a lingering sweetness that makes you crave just one more. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a special treat after dinner, or simply to fill your home with the comforting smell of freshly baked cookies, this recipe is guaranteed to delight. These Cinnamon Snowball Cookies are not just a dessert—they’re a little moment of happiness baked into every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for rolling

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 2–3 minutes on medium speed.

3. Add vanilla: Beat in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The vanilla will enhance the cookie’s flavor and complement the warmth of the cinnamon.

4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. If using chopped nuts, fold them into the dry mixture to ensure they are evenly distributed.

5. Mix the dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser cookie.

6. Shape the cookies: Using a teaspoon or cookie scoop, form the dough into small 1-inch balls. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet, allowing room for the cookies to expand slightly during baking.

7. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The cookies should still be soft to the touch.

8. Cool slightly and roll in sugar: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat them generously. This step gives them the signature “snowball” look.

9. Final cooling: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, give them a second roll in powdered sugar for extra sweetness and that classic snowy appearance.

10. Serve and enjoy: Arrange the cookies on a platter and serve with your favorite hot beverage. These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Snowball Cookies

• Room temperature butter is key: Make sure your butter is soft but not melted to achieve the perfect texture.

• Don’t skip the double sugar roll: Rolling the cookies twice in powdered sugar ensures a visually appealing snowball effect and adds extra sweetness.

• Optional nuts: For added crunch, use finely chopped pecans or walnuts. Toasting them lightly in the oven before adding to the dough can enhance their flavor.

• Cookie size: Smaller cookies bake more evenly and give that perfect bite-sized snowball experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cinnamon Snowball Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a sensory experience. The aroma alone can transform an ordinary afternoon into a cozy, comforting moment. Each cookie is tender and buttery, with a subtle warmth from the cinnamon that lingers on the palate.

Unlike many cookies that can be dry or overly sweet, these snowballs are soft, melt-in-your-mouth, and perfectly balanced. The powdered sugar coating adds the ideal touch of sweetness and a festive visual appeal. Whether you’re baking for kids, friends, or yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone who tries them.

Variations to Try

While the classic recipe is irresistible on its own, you can add your own creative twist:

1. Chocolate Cinnamon Snowballs: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the flour mixture for a chocolaty twist.

2. Citrus-Infused Snowballs: Add 1 teaspoon of finely grated orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright, refreshing flavor.

3. Nut-Free Version: Omit nuts entirely for a smooth, allergy-friendly option.

4. Spiced Snowballs: Add 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg or cloves to the flour mixture for a slightly more complex flavor profile.

Each variation maintains the soft, buttery texture while allowing you to experiment with flavors to suit your taste or the occasion.

Notes:

• Double rolling in powdered sugar creates the classic snowball look.

• Adjust baking time slightly if cookies are larger or smaller than 1 inch.

• For best flavor, let the cookies cool completely before storing.

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon Snowball Cookies are wonderfully versatile. Consider these serving ideas:

• Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon snack.

• Serve alongside a cold glass of milk for children or a simple, classic pairing.

• Arrange on a decorative platter for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.

• Pack in gift boxes or jars for thoughtful homemade presents that friends and family will love.

Storing and Freezing

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain freshness:

• Layer with parchment paper: When stacking cookies, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

• Freezing dough: Form dough balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

• Freezing baked cookies: Fully baked cookies can be frozen in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature and, if desired, re-roll in powdered sugar for a fresh finish.

The Joy of Baking Cinnamon Snowball Cookies

Baking is more than a simple task—it’s an experience, a ritual, and a form of love you can share with others. Cinnamon Snowball Cookies embody all of these elements. The process is straightforward enough for beginner bakers but yields a result that impresses even seasoned dessert lovers.

There’s a certain magic in watching the dough transform into perfectly round, powdered sugar-coated cookies, filling your kitchen with the scent of cinnamon and butter. The joy comes not just from tasting the cookies, but from sharing them—handing a warm, soft snowball to a loved one is an instant mood-lifter and conversation starter.

Making Memories

Beyond taste, these cookies carry a sense of nostalgia. They remind us of quiet moments with family, of childhood memories, and the simple pleasures of home-baked treats. Baking these Cinnamon Snowball Cookies can become a cherished tradition, one that you look forward to repeating year after year.

Even for those new to baking, the success of this recipe can be incredibly satisfying. The combination of buttery dough, aromatic cinnamon, optional crunchy nuts, and delicate powdered sugar is universally loved. Each bite tells a story of warmth, comfort, and culinary delight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the dough up to two days in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. The flavor often improves slightly after resting, allowing the cinnamon to infuse the dough more fully.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used in a pinch. Keep in mind that cookies may be slightly less rich and the texture a bit softer.

How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure your butter is soft but not melted, and avoid overmixing the dough. Chill the dough for 10–15 minutes if your kitchen is warm, which helps maintain the snowball shape.

Can I make these cookies nut-free?
Yes! Simply omit the nuts from the recipe. The cookies remain tender, buttery, and delicious without them. You can also replace nuts with mini chocolate chips or leave the dough plain.

Conclusion

The Best Cinnamon Snowball Cookies Ever aren’t just another dessert—they’re a cozy, melt-in-your-mouth treat that transforms ordinary moments into special ones. Whether you’re baking for yourself, for friends, or for family, these cookies offer the perfect combination of buttery richness, cinnamon warmth, and sweet powdered sugar charm.

From the moment the dough comes together to the final coating of powdered sugar, this recipe is designed to make baking enjoyable and rewarding. They’re easy to make, versatile in flavor, and perfect for sharing. These Cinnamon Snowball Cookies are proof that the simplest ingredients, when treated with care, can create unforgettable moments and unforgettable taste.

If you’ve ever wanted a cookie that’s both comforting and indulgent, soft yet sturdy, and sweet without being overpowering, your search ends here. Bake a batch today and fill your home with the aroma, warmth, and joy of the best Cinnamon Snowball Cookies ever.

The Best Cinnamon Snowball Cookies Ever

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

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Description

These soft, melt-in-your-mouth Cinnamon Snowball Cookies are the perfect cozy treat for any time of year. With a buttery base, a hint of warm cinnamon, and a generous coating of powdered sugar, they’re ideal for quiet afternoons with a cup of tea or coffee, family gatherings, or as a sweet gift for friends. Inspired by traditional snowball cookies, this recipe brings a comforting aroma and a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for rolling

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

• Beat in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. If using nuts, fold them into the dry mixture.

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.

• Using a teaspoon or cookie scoop, form 1-inch balls of dough and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

• Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden and cookies are still soft to the touch.

• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. While warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat.

• Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, roll them a second time in powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

• Serve and enjoy, storing any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.

Notes

• Double rolling in powdered sugar creates the classic snowball appearance.

• Ensure butter is soft but not melted for perfect texture.

• Optional nuts add crunch and flavor; toast lightly for enhanced taste.

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature; layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

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

Michelle Davis