Red Velvet Snowballs

Red Velvet Snowballs are delightful little treats that bring a touch of whimsy and sweetness to any gathering. With their rich color and soft texture, these cookies are perfect for sharing at family parties or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea. They’re easy to make and even easier to eat, which makes them a favorite for both kids and adults alike.

What Makes This Recipe Special

You’ll love this recipe because it takes only a few simple steps to create something truly special. The vibrant red color is eye-catching and festive, making these cookies ideal for holidays or celebrations. Plus, they use everyday ingredients you likely have on hand, making it a breeze to whip them up anytime you want a sweet treat. The powdered sugar coating gives them a lovely finish that adds sweetness and a bit of sparkle.

Simple Method for Red Velvet Snowballs

Making these cookies is surprisingly easy. You’ll start by mixing your dry and wet ingredients separately. Then, combine them and roll the dough into little balls. A quick bake in the oven, followed by a roll in powdered sugar while warm, creates the perfect little cookies. They’re sweet, soft, and just waiting to be enjoyed.

What You Need

Here’s what you need to make these lovely cookies:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• 1 cup powdered sugar for coating

How to Cook Red Velvet Snowballs

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy.
4. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the butter mixture and mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
7. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
8. Let the cookies cool slightly, then roll them in powdered sugar while they are still warm.
9. Allow to cool completely before enjoying.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

These soft cookies are delicious on their own but can also be served with a variety of treats. They pair wonderfully with coffee or milk, making them a perfect afternoon snack. You can even offer them at parties alongside other sweet treats for a festive dessert spread. They’re sure to be a hit with everyone!

Keep Leftovers Fresh

To store the cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.

Best Tips for Red Velvet Snowballs

• Ensure your butter is softened for easy mixing.
• Don’t overbake; cookies should be soft when they come out.
• Roll in powdered sugar while still warm for a perfect coating.
• If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the powdered sugar used for coating.
• Experiment with different food coloring for fun variations.

Different Ways to Make It

• Add white chocolate chips for a richer texture.
• Swap out the cocoa powder for a spice blend for a unique flavor.
• Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Add nuts for a bit of crunch.
• For a festive touch, shape them like mini snowmen!

Common Questions

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for a couple of days before baking. Just make sure to roll the dough into balls right before baking for the best results.

Can I freeze red velvet snowballs?

Yes, they freeze very well! Just wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.

How do I reheat these cookies?

You can reheat the cookies in a microwave for just a few seconds to warm them up. Alternatively, you can place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for a nice, soft texture.

What can I substitute for butter?

You can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute if you need a dairy-free option. Both will work well to keep the cookies moist and tender.

What are common mistakes to avoid?

Make sure not to overmix the dough, as this can make the cookies tough. Also, monitor your baking time closely to avoid overbaking. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.