Peppermint Snowball Cookies

Short Description

Peppermint Snowball Cookies are melt-in-your-mouth treats with a buttery, crumbly texture and a refreshing hint of peppermint. Rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy finish, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Festive and perfect for the holiday season
  • Buttery, delicate texture with a peppermint twist
  • Only a few simple ingredients required
  • Easy to make and great for gifting
  • Can be customized with different flavor variations
Peppermint Snowball Cookies 10 Peppermint Snowball Cookies are melt-in-your-mouth treats with a buttery, crumbly texture and a refreshing hint of peppermint. Rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy finish, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa.


Ingredients

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

  • Unsalted butter
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Peppermint extract
  • All-purpose flour
  • Cornstarch
  • Salt
  • Crushed peppermint candies
  • Additional powdered sugar (for coating)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Add Flavoring: Mix in the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and salt.
  3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and cornstarch, mixing until just combined.
  4. Fold in Peppermint: Stir in the crushed peppermint candies.
  5. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Chill: Refrigerate the cookie dough balls for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden on the bottom.
  8. Coat in Powdered Sugar: While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar. Let cool and roll again for a thicker coating.
  9. Serve & Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 24 cookies
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 30 minutes
  • Bake Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

  • Chocolate Peppermint: Add mini chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
  • Nutty Snowballs: Mix in finely chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
  • Citrus Twist: Replace peppermint extract with orange or lemon extract for a citrusy flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
  • Extra Minty: Drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candies on top.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Refrigeration: Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months; bake from frozen with an extra minute added to baking time.
Peppermint Snowball Cookies
Peppermint Snowball Cookies 11 Peppermint Snowball Cookies are melt-in-your-mouth treats with a buttery, crumbly texture and a refreshing hint of peppermint. Rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy finish, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa.


FAQs

Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar?

No, powdered sugar is essential for the right texture.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough before baking helps maintain their shape.

Can I use candy canes instead of peppermint candies?

Yes! Crushed candy canes work just as well.

Why do I roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice?

Rolling twice ensures a thick, snowy coating for the perfect finish.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and freeze it for up to 3 months.

Do I need a stand mixer?

No, a hand mixer or even mixing by hand works fine.

What happens if I overbake them?

They may become too dry, so bake just until the bottoms are lightly golden.

Can I make these without peppermint?

Yes! You can omit the peppermint extract for classic snowball cookies.

How do I crush peppermint candies?

Place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.

Can I add food coloring for a festive look?

Absolutely! A drop of red or green food coloring can make them even more festive.

Conclusion

Peppermint Snowball Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat, bringing together buttery richness and a refreshing peppermint flavor. Whether for a cookie exchange, a holiday gift, or just to enjoy at home, these delightful snowballs will be a festive favorite!

Print
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Peppermint Snowball Cookies

Peppermint Snowball Cookies

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  • Author: Maria B. Evans
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: ~52 minutes

Description

Peppermint Snowball Cookies Peppermint Snowball Cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats with a festive peppermint twist. Rolled in powdered sugar, they look like little snowballs, making them perfect for holiday cookie platters.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup finely crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla and peppermint extract.
  • Stir in flour and salt until just combined. Fold in crushed peppermint and nuts (if using).
  • Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
  • Bake for 12–14 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden. Let cool for 5 minutes.
  • While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar. Let cool completely, then roll again for a thick, snowy coating.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Notes

  • For a richer peppermint flavor, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the powdered sugar.
  • If the dough feels too dry, add 1 tablespoon of milk.
  • Try dipping the bottoms in melted chocolate for an extra treat.

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~120
  • Sugar: ~7g
  • Sodium: ~30mg
  • Fat: ~7g
  • Saturated Fat: ~4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: ~14g
  • Fiber: ~1g
  • Protein: ~1g
  • Cholesterol: ~15mg

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