If you adore cookies that melt in your mouth and offer a refreshing twist, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe. Combining the rich buttery texture with a subtle, cooling peppermint flavor, these cookies are pure holiday magic in every bite. Imagine soft, delicate snowballs dusted generously in powdered sugar that not only look festive but taste like a winter wonderland. Whether you’re baking for family gatherings or sneaking a treat during a quiet afternoon, this recipe delivers unforgettable joy and a burst of minty freshness that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the creamy butter creating that tender texture to the peppermint extract that infuses the cookies with their signature coolness. These ingredients come together effortlessly to make a cookie that’s as delightful as it is easy to prepare.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender crumb, the foundation of these melt-in-your-mouth cookies.
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling): Adds sweetness and a snowy finish, ensuring each bite is perfectly balanced.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: The star flavor that gives these cookies their refreshing and festive minty kick.
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: Gives the structure to the cookies while keeping them soft and delicate.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and perfectly balances the buttery flavors.
- ½ cup finely chopped nuts (optional, such as pecans or walnuts): Adds a delightful crunch and a nutty depth, making the texture even more interesting.
How to Make Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Start by beating the softened butter and powdered sugar together in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the dough, giving the cookies their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Once creamy, blend in the peppermint extract to infuse that unmistakable minty aroma and flavor.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt to ensure even distribution. Gradually add this dry mixture into the butter and sugar blend. Be gentle and mix just until combined to avoid developing too much gluten, which can make the cookies tough. If you’re choosing to add finely chopped nuts, gently fold them in now for a subtle crunch.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover your dough and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling process helps the dough firm up, making it much easier to roll into perfect balls. It also allows the flavors to meld, intensifying that enchanting minty sweetness.
Step 4: Prep and Shape the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. Then, roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Make sure to space them about 1 inch apart, so they have room to gently spread without touching.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll notice that the bottoms turn just a light golden shade while the tops remain pale—a good sign these are perfectly baked and will be delightfully tender inside.
Step 6: First Sugar Coating
Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool for 3 to 5 minutes on the baking sheet. While they are still warm, gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar. This first coating helps the sugar stick and starts building that signature snowy look.
Step 7: Final Powdered Sugar Coat
After the cookies have completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again. This final touch creates that iconic snowball effect—a beautiful powdery layer that’s irresistible and festive.
How to Serve Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, consider a few simple garnishes like a small sprig of fresh mint on the side for that visual hint of the peppermint flavor inside. A light dusting of crushed peppermint candies on top of the powdered sugar can also add a fun zing and a pop of color.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with warm drinks like hot cocoa or a peppermint-infused coffee, enhancing the minty vibe. They’re also fantastic alongside a glass of cold milk, which complements the buttery richness perfectly without overpowering the fresh peppermint taste.
Creative Ways to Present
For the holidays, try arranging your Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe in a star or wreath shape on a festive platter. Wrapping individual cookies in clear cellophane tied with a red or green ribbon makes charming edible gifts. You could even sandwich a thin layer of peppermint buttercream between two snowballs for a unique twist that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These cookies stay fresh and delicious for up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep them away from humid environments to maintain their tender texture and avoid the powdered sugar from dissolving.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked cookie dough rolled into balls or baked cookies themselves. For dough, freeze on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Cookies can be frozen for up to three months and thawed at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
If you want to warm the cookies, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. This refreshes their softness and enhances the buttery aroma without melting the powdered sugar too much.
FAQs
Can I use other extracts instead of peppermint in the Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! While peppermint is classic here, you can experiment with vanilla, almond, or even orange extract for a different but equally delightful flavor profile. Just keep the quantity the same to maintain the right balance.
Do I have to add nuts to the cookies?
Nuts are completely optional in this recipe. They add a great crunch and nuttiness, but if you have allergies or prefer a softer cookie, simply leave them out and enjoy the pure buttery mint flavor.
Why do the cookies remain pale on top while baking?
The pale tops are a hallmark of snowball cookies—they indicate the dough is tender and hasn’t browned excessively. The bottoms turning golden provide just enough baking for structure and texture.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
With some substitutions like dairy-free butter or margarine, you can adapt this recipe for a dairy-free version. Just ensure the butter substitute is suitable for baking to keep the cookies tender and flavorful.
What’s the best way to roll cookies in powdered sugar without it getting messy?
Roll the cookies while they’re warm but not hot, and use a shallow bowl for the powdered sugar to easily coat them. Using a fine-mesh sieve to dust on the second coating can also help control the sugar and avoid clumps.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give this Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe a try because it’s one of those treats that brings warmth, nostalgia, and a burst of cheerful flavor all in one bite. Whether you’re gifting them, sharing at a party, or indulging yourself, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that embody the spirit of joyful baking. Happy baking and even happier snacking!
Print
Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 57 minutes
- Yield: 24–30 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Minty Snowball Cookies are buttery, tender cookies infused with refreshing peppermint extract and rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy, festive appearance. Perfectly crumbly with a cool mint flavor, these cookies make a delightful treat for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup finely chopped nuts (optional, such as pecans or walnuts)
Instructions
- Prepare the butter mixture: In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Then add the peppermint extract and mix until fully combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped nuts if using.
- Chill the dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up, which makes it easier to handle and shape.
- Preheat oven and shape cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and space them about 1 inch apart on the prepared sheets.
- Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly golden while the tops remain pale and soft.
- First sugar roll: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 3–5 minutes, then gently roll them in powdered sugar while they are still warm for the first coating.
- Final sugar coating: Once the cookies have completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again to create a beautiful snowy finish typical of snowball cookies.
Notes
- For best results, make sure butter is softened but not melted for easy mixing.
- Chilling the dough helps the cookies retain their shape and prevents spreading during baking.
- The chopped nuts are optional and can be omitted or substituted based on preference or allergies.
- Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar twice creates the classic snowball cookie look and adds extra sweetness.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
