Chocolate Snowball Cookies with Melted Chocolate Centers

These Chocolate Snowball Cookies with Melted Chocolate Centers are rich, buttery cookies with a fudgy, chocolatey surprise inside. Dusted with powdered sugar for a snowy effect, they are the perfect winter treat for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or just a cozy chocolate indulgence!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melty Chocolate Center – A gooey surprise in every bite.
• Buttery & Rich – A classic snowball cookie with a chocolatey twist.
• Perfect for the Holidays – They look just like little snowballs!
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Stores well for easy holiday baking.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookies:

• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Cocoa powder
• Salt
• Mini chocolate truffles or chocolate chunks (for the center)

For Rolling & Dusting:

• Powdered sugar (for rolling and dusting)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter & sugar – In a large bowl, beat softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add vanilla – Mix in vanilla extract.
4. Incorporate dry ingredients – Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Shape & Fill the Cookies

1. Scoop dough – Take about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it in your palm.
2. Add chocolate center – Place a mini chocolate truffle or chocolate chunk in the center.
3. Seal & roll – Wrap the dough around the chocolate and roll into a ball. Repeat with remaining dough.

Step 3: Bake

1. Place on baking sheet – Space cookies about 1 inch apart.
2. Bake – Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set but still soft.
3. Cool slightly – Let cookies sit for 5 minutes before rolling in powdered sugar.

Step 4: Coat in Powdered Sugar

1. First roll – While warm, roll cookies in powdered sugar for the first coating.
2. Cool completely – Let cookies cool fully before rolling in powdered sugar again for a snowy finish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 18-20 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes

Variations

• Peppermint Chocolate Snowballs – Add crushed peppermint to the dough or use peppermint truffles.
• Nutty Version – Mix in finely chopped hazelnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Spiced Chocolate Snowballs – Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for warmth.
• Dark Chocolate Lovers – Use extra dark chocolate chunks for an intense flavor.
• White Chocolate Centers – Fill with white chocolate truffles for contrast.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
• Serving Tip: Let chilled cookies sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating for a softer texture.

FAQs

Why did my cookies crack?

Overbaking or dry dough can cause cracks—make sure to bake just until set.

Can I use store-bought truffles?

Yes! Lindt, Ferrero Rocher, or any mini truffles work great.

How do I get a gooey center?

Use soft chocolate centers like ganache or truffles instead of hard chocolate chunks.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store unbaked dough in the fridge or freezer and bake when ready.

Do I have to roll them twice in powdered sugar?

Rolling twice helps create the classic snowy look, but you can skip the second roll if desired.

Can I add espresso powder for more depth?

Yes! A teaspoon of espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor.

What’s the best way to coat cookies evenly?

Use a bowl of powdered sugar and gently toss the cookies while they’re still warm.

Can I add a hint of salt to balance the sweetness?

Yes! A pinch of flaky sea salt enhances the flavor.

How do I make them extra festive?

Sprinkle edible glitter or crushed candy canes over the powdered sugar.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Snowball Cookies with Melted Chocolate Centers are a dreamy holiday treat with a rich, fudgy core and a snowy powdered sugar coating. Whether for holiday baking or an everyday indulgence, these cookies will be a hit with chocolate lovers. Try them today and enjoy the magic of homemade truffles in cookie form!

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