The holiday season is upon us, and there’s nothing quite like the joy of baking to fill our homes with warmth and delightful aromas. Picture this: as I pulled my batch of Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies from the oven, the sweet scent of peppermint and melted chocolate enveloped my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. These little morsels are a delightful twist on the classic snowball cookie, combining the buttery texture we all love with an invigorating hint of mint. Plus, they require no chilling time—making them the perfect last-minute treat for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply indulging in a moment of sweet nostalgia.
With each bite, you’ll experience a melt-in-your-mouth sensation accentuated by a dusting of powdered sugar, which adds an inviting touch to their snowball appearance. Trust me, these cookies will become your go-to treat, whether you’re hosting a festive event or craving a cozy night in. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that brings the holiday cheer to life!
Why are Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies so special?
Easy to make: With no chilling time required, you can whip these cookies up in no time, perfect for spontaneous cravings or last-minute guests.
Irresistible flavor: The combination of buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie texture with refreshing peppermint and rich chocolate chips is a match made in dessert heaven.
Visually stunning: Coated in powdered sugar, these cookies not only taste great but look festive, making them an impressive addition to any holiday spread.
Family favorite: Everyone, from kids to adults, will adore these cookies, ensuring they disappear faster than you can say “snowball.”
Versatile options: Feel free to customize the mint flavor or chocolate chips to suit your taste, ensuring every batch is uniquely yours!
Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• Butter – Provides richness and a tender texture; make sure it’s softened to room temperature for optimal creaminess.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and creates a light, crumbly texture; no direct substitutions suggested for the best results.
• Peppermint Extract – Infuses the cookies with a refreshing mint flavor; you can substitute with mint extract for a milder taste but avoid peppermint oil as it’s too concentrated.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile; it’s essential for a balanced taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; measure carefully using the spoon and level method to avoid dryness.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness within the cookies.
• Mini Chocolate Chips – Bring bursts of chocolate flavor in every delightful bite; feel free to use regular chocolate chips if preferred.
• Green Food Coloring (optional) – Adds a festive touch without altering the flavor; perfect for special occasions!
How to Make Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
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Cream softened butter and powdered sugar together in a large mixing bowl. Beat for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy—this is key to a tender cookie texture!
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Incorporate the peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and if using, the green food coloring. Mix until well combined for that festive flavor and color burst.
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Whisk together flour and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients on low speed, mixing just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
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Fold in mini chocolate chips gently, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. You want every bite to have that delicious chocolate surprise!
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Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading while baking.
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Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes. The bottoms should be lightly golden, while the tops remain slightly underbaked for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
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Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Roll them in powdered sugar while they’re still warm, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Roll them again in powdered sugar before serving for that snowy finish!
Optional: Garnish with extra mini chocolate chips on top for a decorative touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
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Perfect Butter: Use softened butter, not melted. This is essential to achieve that light and airy cookie texture.
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Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing when combining flour. This keeps the cookies tender and prevents them from becoming tough.
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Bake Wisely: Watch your baking time! Underbake slightly for a melt-in-your-mouth experience; they should remain soft and fluffy on top.
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Storage Savvy: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week; freeze extras for longer storage and freshness.
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Customize Flavor: Feel free to adjust peppermint extract to your preference for a more intense mint flavor without compromising the Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies’ delightful essence!
Mint Chocolate Chip Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your cookies to suit your tastes and preferences!
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a rich, vegan-friendly option that still packs flavor.
- Nutty Touch: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
- Chocolate Overload: Swap mini chocolate chips for milk chocolate or dark chocolate chunks for a different intensity and richness.
- Coconut Bliss: Fold in 1/2 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical twist that complements the mint perfectly!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a surprising heat that pairs intriguingly with the sweetness.
- Colorful Twist: Use colored sprinkles or edible glitter for a festive look instead of green food coloring—perfect for celebrations!
- Peppermint Candy Crunch: Crush peppermint candies and fold them into the dough to elevate the mint flavor and add an appealing texture.
- Matcha Mint: Substitute 1 tablespoon of matcha powder for some of the flour to add a subtle earthy flavor and a vibrant green color.
With these swaps and twists, you’ll create a cookie that’s uniquely yours—each version a delightful surprise!
What to Serve with Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies?
Looking to create a festive atmosphere around your sweet treats?
- Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy texture and chocolatey depth pair beautifully with the minty cookies, perfect for cozy gatherings.
- Peppermint Tea: This warm beverage complements the mint flavor and adds a soothing touch to your holiday snack spread.
- Crunchy Biscotti: Add a delightful crunch to your dessert table; the nutty flavor will juxtapose nicely with the soft cookies. Enjoy them dipped in your favorite beverage!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream alongside these cookies creates a dreamy chocolate-mint experience that you won’t forget.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh, tangy fruit salad balances the sweetness of cookies, adding brightness and a refreshing contrast.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda; their creaminess will enhance the cookies’ frosting-like sweetness and develop a sophisticated flavor palette.
- Chai Latte: The warm spices and milkiness of chai elevate the festive experience, harmonizing deliciously with the peppermint taste.
- Gingerbread Cookies: For a nostalgic array, serve alongside traditional gingerbread. The spicy warmth of gingerbread complements the minty sweetness beautifully.
- White Chocolate Dip: Serve these cookies with a side of melted white chocolate for an indulgent twist that kids will adore!
How to Store and Freeze Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and ready for enjoyment anytime!
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, place them in the refrigerator. They’ll last up to 2 weeks, but let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before indulging.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying this festive treat again.
Reheating: To restore softness, microwave individual cookies for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy that melt-in-your-mouth experience just like fresh out of the oven!
Make Ahead Options
These Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy holiday weeks! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Alternatively, shape the cookies into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet for up to 3 months before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—simply place the frozen dough balls on a lined baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, delicious cookies that are just as delightful as if they were made the same day!
Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs
How should I select my peppermint extract?
Choosing a good peppermint extract is crucial for flavor depth! Look for high-quality brands that list peppermint extract as the first ingredient. The scent should be refreshing and strong—this tells you it’s pure. If you want a milder taste, try mint extract instead, but steer clear of peppermint oil, as it’s much too concentrated for baking.
How can I store my Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies?
Absolutely! The best way to keep these cookies is in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Make sure they’re fully cooled before sealing them—this helps maintain their soft and tender texture. If you’re feeling extra organized, you might store them in layers, separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking!
Can I freeze Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies?
Yes, you certainly can! To freeze them, first, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, layering with parchment paper if needed. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave for 10-15 seconds to regain their softness.
What if my dough is too dry?
If your dough seems dry, it may be due to the flour measurement. I recommend using the spoon and level method for measuring flour, as too much can lead to dryness. You can also add a teaspoon of milk at a time until the dough reaches a more manageable consistency. Remember, you want it to be soft enough to easily form into balls!
Are there any dietary considerations with these cookies?
These Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are not gluten-free or dairy-free, so if you’re baking for someone with allergies or dietary restrictions, you might need to adjust the recipe. Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour and use dairy-free butter. Always check labels for your chocolate chips and extracts to ensure they’re allergy-friendly!
How can I tell when my cookies are done baking?
Timing can be a bit tricky! You want to look for lightly golden bottoms, while the tops should remain slightly underbaked. This typically takes about 12-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Trust your senses—when the sweet aroma fills your kitchen and the edges start to look set, it’s likely time to pull them out!
Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream softened butter and powdered sugar together in a large mixing bowl for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and green food coloring if using. Mix well.
- Whisk together flour and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add to wet mixture on low speed.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips gently.
- Shape dough into 1-inch balls and place on baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes until bottoms are lightly golden.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Roll in powdered sugar while warm, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.