Chocolate Snowball Cookies are a delightful holiday treat featuring a rich, chocolatey interior coated in a layer of powdered sugar. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies have a slightly crisp exterior and a soft, fudgy center, making them a favorite for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Rich chocolate flavor with a tender, buttery texture
- Perfect for holiday baking and gifting
- No need for special equipment or advanced baking skills
- Freezes well for make-ahead treats
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Unsalted butter
- Powdered sugar
- Cocoa powder
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Chopped nuts (optional)
- Additional powdered sugar for coating
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the cocoa powder and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring until a dough forms. Fold in the chopped nuts if using.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are set but still soft.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool slightly before rolling them in powdered sugar.
- Once completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar a second time for a snowy effect.
- Store in an airtight container or serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Nutty Version: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra crunch.
- Spiced Snowballs: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Extra Chocolatey: Stir in mini chocolate chips or drizzle with melted chocolate.
- Peppermint Twist: Add a few drops of peppermint extract and roll in crushed candy canes.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks for extended freshness.
- Freezing: Freeze uncoated cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and roll in powdered sugar before serving.
- Reheating: These cookies don’t require reheating but can be enjoyed at room temperature or slightly warmed in the microwave for a few seconds.
FAQs
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and avoid overmixing the dough.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! They store well at room temperature or can be frozen for future use.
Why do I roll them in powdered sugar twice?
The first coating helps the sugar stick, and the second ensures a beautiful snowy finish.
Can I use Dutch-process cocoa powder?
Yes, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture compared to natural cocoa powder.
Can I omit the nuts?
Absolutely! The cookies will still be delicious without them.
How do I make these cookies dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter alternatives like coconut oil or vegan margarine.
What should I do if my dough is too dry?
Add a teaspoon of milk or water to help bring the dough together.
Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, powdered erythritol or other confectioner’s sugar substitutes work well.
How can I make them more festive?
Roll them in colored sugar or drizzle with white chocolate for a decorative touch.
Do these cookies harden after baking?
They firm up slightly but remain soft and fudgy inside.
Conclusion
Chocolate Snowball Cookies are a simple yet irresistible treat that is perfect for the holiday season or any time of the year. With their rich chocolate flavor and delicate powdered sugar coating, they bring a touch of sweetness to any occasion. Try different variations and enjoy these delightful cookies with your loved ones!
Print
Chocolate Snowball Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert, Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chocolate Snowball Cookies are soft, buttery, and filled with rich cocoa flavor. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are coated in powdered sugar, giving them a beautiful, snowy appearance—perfect for holiday baking! They have a slightly crumbly, shortbread-like texture and pair perfectly with a cup of hot cocoa.
Ingredients
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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3/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat & Prep – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Mix Wet Ingredients – In a large bowl, beat butter and ½ cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combine Dry Ingredients – In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
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Mix Dough – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until fully combined. Fold in chopped nuts if using.
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Shape Cookies – Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
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Bake – Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until set but not overly firm.
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Coat in Sugar – Let cookies cool for 5 minutes, then roll in powdered sugar while still warm. Let them cool completely, then roll in powdered sugar again for a thick, snowy coating.
Notes
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For an extra chocolatey version, mix in ½ cup mini chocolate chips.
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If dough is too soft to roll, chill it in the fridge for 20 minutes before shaping.
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Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
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