There’s a certain nostalgia that envelops the kitchen when the aroma of baked treats fills the air—especially when those treats are playful, melt-in-your-mouth snowball cookies. These soft, buttery delights remind me of cozy holiday gatherings, warm laughter, and the joy of sharing something homemade. What makes this recipe truly magical is its simplicity; with just four ingredients, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s not only stunning but also versatile enough to suit any preference.
Imagine crafting classic snowball cookies, then experimenting with twists like zesty citrus or chocolate variations, all while ensuring everyone can indulge—thanks to vegan and gluten-free options. Whether you’re preparing for a festive celebration or simply treating yourself, these cookies embody the spirit of comfort and creativity. Let’s get baking and create sweet memories, one snowball cookie at a time!
Why are Snowball Cookies a Must-Bake?
Simplicity: With just four ingredients, this recipe is incredibly straightforward, ideal for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.
Versatility: You can easily customize the flavors, from classic walnut to exciting chocolate or zesty citrus options.
Inclusive: Vegan and gluten-free adaptations mean everyone can enjoy these treats, making them perfect for gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Their melt-in-your-mouth texture ensures they’ll be a hit at any holiday event or family gathering.
Nostalgic: These delightful cookies evoke warm memories of holidays spent with loved ones, enhancing the baking experience.
Snowball Cookies Ingredients
• Discover the essentials for delicious snowball cookies!
For the Dough
- Flour – Use white all-purpose or gluten-free flour for the perfect structure.
- Nuts (Walnuts/Almonds/Pecans) – Adds delightful crunch and flavor; feel free to substitute with your favorite nut or omit for nut-free snowball cookies.
- Butter or Coconut Oil – Provides richness and softness; choose softened butter or melted coconut oil for best results.
- Powdered Sugar – This sweetener gives the cookies their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture; consider using homemade unrefined powdered sugar for a healthier option.
How to Make Snowball Cookies
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Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures the cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect buttery texture.
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Beat together the butter and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl until they are well combined and creamy. You’re looking for a light, fluffy consistency!
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Combine the flour and finely chopped nuts in another bowl. The mixture should be well-mixed, so all those delightful flavors are ready to mingle.
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Mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture to form a soft dough. This step is crucial, as it helps create the melt-in-your-mouth quality we love in snowball cookies.
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Shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a lined baking sheet. Make sure they’re spaced apart to allow for slight spreading while baking.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are lightly browned on the bottoms. The tops should remain pale, giving them that classic snowball appearance.
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Roll the warm cookies in additional powdered sugar before letting them cool on a wire rack. This adds an irresistible sweetness and beautiful finish.
Optional: For a festive twist, sprinkle with crushed candy canes before rolling in powdered sugar!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Making Snowball Cookies
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Chill Your Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for about 30 minutes can help them maintain their shape while baking and prevent spreading.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your butter is fresh and at room temperature for easy mixing, which enhances the final buttery flavor of your snowball cookies.
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Don’t Skip the Powdered Sugar: Rolling the warm cookies in powdered sugar is essential—it not only adds sweetness but also gives them that classic snowball look.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time; overbaking can lead to dryness. You want them just lightly browned on the bottom for a perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Experiment with a Twist: Feel free to add extracts like vanilla or almond to elevate the flavors in your snowball cookies, or try a heaping teaspoon of cocoa powder for rich chocolatey indulgence.
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Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay soft and delicious for 3-5 days!
How to Store and Freeze Snowball Cookies
Room Temperature: Store snowball cookies in a covered container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days to keep them soft and delicious.
Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, place your cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked dough in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just thaw and proceed with the recipe.
Reheating: Warm cookies can be reheated briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to regain their delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Make Ahead Options
These snowball cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, keeping it tightly wrapped to maintain freshness. If you want to prep even further in advance, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months; simply portion it into balls and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, no thawing is necessary—just pop them directly in the oven and adjust the baking time by a couple of minutes. Follow these steps, and enjoy melt-in-your-mouth snowball cookies with minimal effort!
Snowball Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize these snowball cookies to match your taste—there’s so much room for delicious experimentation!
- Nut-Free: Omit the nuts entirely for a soft, buttery treat everyone can enjoy.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free flour, such as almond or coconut flour, for the same delightful texture.
- Chocolate Snowballs: Add cocoa powder to your dough for a rich, chocolaty twist that’s simply irresistible.
- Citrus Zing: Mix in lemon or orange zest to brighten flavors and add a refreshing citrusy note.
- Flavor Boost: Enhance the base recipe by adding a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract for added depth.
For those who crave unique flavors, consider mixing in dried cranberries or cherries for a chewy surprise. Each variation brings a cozy twist, inviting joy into your baking experience!
- Festive Cheer: Incorporate crushed candy canes or colorful sprinkles for a holiday pop of cheer.
- Spicy Kick: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can bring warmth, turning your snowball cookies into a spice lover’s dream.
What to Serve with Snowball Cookies?
Set the stage for sweet memories with these delightful treats, perfectly paired with comforting sides and drinks.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy, rich flavors complement the cookies’ buttery texture, creating a cozy treat. Perfect for sipping by the fireplace!
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Warm Vanilla Custard: Adds a silky smooth element, enhancing the melt-in-your-mouth experience with each bite of cookie and custard combined.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Its warm spices and sweetness balance the cookies’ buttery richness, making it a delightful pairing for holiday gatherings.
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Fresh Fruit Platter: A light and refreshing option that offers a vibrant contrast in taste and texture, enhancing the cookies’ sweetness with a burst of freshness.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet bites play well with the snowball cookies’ smoothness, creating an enjoyable variety of textures on your dessert table.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The juicy freshness and chocolate richness provide a decadent pairing that elevates the festive experience significantly.
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Almond Milk: A lovely dairy-free option that maintains a creamy balance with the cookies, popular among those enjoying vegan treats.
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Peppermint Ice Cream: A cool, creamy finish that’s refreshing while enhancing the holiday spirit found in your snowball cookies.
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup brings together the flavors beautifully, providing a lovely contrast to the sweet, crumbly cookies—perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up!
Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for snowball cookies?
You can use any type of flour, but for the best results, I recommend using white all-purpose flour for that classic soft texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free flour works beautifully as well.
How should I store my snowball cookies?
Store your snowball cookies in a covered container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days. To keep them fresh and soft, make sure the container is airtight. If you’d like to keep them longer, place them in the fridge, where they can last for about a week.
Can I freeze snowball cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight, then shape into balls and bake as instructed. If you’ve baked the cookies, they can also be frozen in a single layer, then transferred to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
What if my dough is too crumbly when making snowball cookies?
If you find your dough is too crumbly and not holding together, it might be because the butter wasn’t softened enough or you need a bit more moisture. Simply mix in a teaspoon of cold water or melted coconut oil at a time until it comes together. Remember, the dough should be soft but not sticky.
Are snowball cookies safe for pets?
It’s best not to share snowball cookies with your furry friends. The nuts and butter could cause digestive upset in pets. Always make sure any treats you give to your pets are safe and specifically made for them.
Can I customize the nut type in snowball cookies?
Certainly! Snowball cookies are quite versatile. While walnuts, almonds, and pecans are traditional, you can substitute them with your favorite nuts—or even leave them out entirely for nut-free cookies. Happy baking!
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Snowball Cookies: Easy Holiday Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Beat together the butter and powdered sugar until creamy.
- Combine flour and finely chopped nuts in another bowl.
- Mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture to form a soft dough.
- Shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned on the bottoms.
- Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar before cooling on a wire rack.
- Optional: Sprinkle with crushed candy canes before rolling in powdered sugar.