Winter is finally here. The air is crisp and the house feels cozy. These Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are the perfect way to celebrate the season.
Looking for a dish that wows your guests without stressing you out? This recipe delivers a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture everyone loves. You will love how simple and festive these look on a platter.
Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
These cookies are a total winner for busy families. They look fancy but use simple pantry staples you likely have. You do not even need a fancy mixer to make them.
Your kids will love helping with the snowy sugar coating. It is a fun activity for a snow day. These cookies are perfect for winter holidays and cookie swaps.
Simple Cooking Steps
Making these is as easy as rolling playdough. You just mix the dough and roll it into small balls. The oven does most of the hard work for you.
Even beginner bakers will get perfect results every time. There is no chilling required for this dough. You can have fresh cookies ready in 30 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses basic ingredients to create a rich, shortbread-like flavor.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup additional powdered sugar for coating
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Whisk flour and salt together. Gradually add to the butter mixture until a stiff dough forms.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Place on the baking sheet 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until bottoms are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes until firm but still warm.
- Roll warm cookies in powdered sugar. Place on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once fully cooled, roll in powdered sugar a second time for a heavy coating.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these on a festive platter with hot cocoa. They look beautiful in a holiday gift tin for friends. Your neighbors will definitely ask for the recipe.
Set the table and enjoy a few with your family. They are small enough for a quick sweet treat after dinner. Share the joy with your favorite people this winter.
Keep It Fresh
Store your cookies in an airtight container for five days. They stay soft and buttery at room temperature. You can even freeze them for up to three months.
This makes them a great make-ahead treat for parties. If they lose their snowy look, just roll them in sugar again. They will look fresh and bright once more.
Tips for Best Results
- Use mini chocolate chips for the best texture in every bite.
- Do not overbake them or the cookies will be too dry.
- The double roll in sugar is the secret to that snowy look.
- Let them cool slightly before the first sugar roll.
- Always line your pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- For Christmas, add a tiny drop of peppermint extract.
- Ensure your butter is truly softened for a smooth dough.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
- Swap mini chips for finely chopped pecans or walnuts.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet flavor.
- Try a peppermint twist with crushed candy canes inside.
- Use a gluten-free flour blend for a friendly dietary option.
Common Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these cookies are perfect for holiday prep. You can bake them a few days early. They stay fresh and delicious in a sealed container.
Why do I need to roll them twice?
The first roll melts slightly into the warm cookie. This creates a sticky base for the second layer. The second roll stays bright and white like real snow.
Can I use regular chocolate chips?
Regular chips are a bit too large for these small cookies. Mini chips distribute better throughout the buttery dough. If you only have large chips, chop them up first.
I hope these snowy cookies bring a little magic to your kitchen. They are so fun to make and even better to share. Happy holiday baking!
— Lidia
Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all -purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon sal t
- 3/4 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup additional powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Whisk together flour and salt, then gradually add to the creamed mixture until a stiff dough forms.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Shape dough into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet, spaced 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until bottoms are lightly golden but tops remain pale.
- Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes until firm enough to handle but still warm.
- Roll warm cookies in the additional powdered sugar and place on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once fully cooled, roll in powdered sugar a second time for a heavy coating.
