If you’re looking for a festive and refreshing treat that perfectly balances buttery richness with a burst of cool mint, then you’ve stumbled upon a treasure. The Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic snowball cookie, bringing together a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture with the unmistakable charm of mint chocolate. These cookies are not only gorgeous dusted in powdered sugar but also incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect companion for holiday gatherings or a cozy winter afternoon. Trust me, once you try this Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe, it will become a go-to favorite you’ll want to bake again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is refreshingly simple, yet each plays an essential role in creating those perfect, tender cookies. From the rich creaminess of the softened butter to the minty chocolate that adds playful texture and flavor, everything combines beautifully to deliver a cookie that’s as charming to look at as it is delightful to eat.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The buttery base that ensures each cookie is tender and rich without overpowering the mint flavor.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating): Adds natural sweetness and creates that signature snowball dusting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor, giving the cookies a warm, inviting aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract: The hero ingredient that delivers a refreshing burst of minty coolness.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and creates that tender crumb we love in snowball cookies.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the cookie’s flavors.
- 1 cup finely chopped mint chocolate (or mint chocolate chips): Brings delightful minty bites and a bit of texture to every mouthful.
How to Make Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lining a baking sheet with parchment paper ensures that your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, which is key for preserving their delicate shape and powdery finish.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Powdered Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, giving your cookies that irresistible soft texture that melts in your mouth.
Step 3: Add Extracts
Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts. The vanilla extract adds warmth and depth, while the peppermint extract gives your cookies that refreshing, minty zing that defines this recipe.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to your butter mixture. Mix gently until a uniform dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this will keep your cookies tender rather than tough.
Step 5: Fold in Mint Chocolate
Gently fold the finely chopped mint chocolate pieces into the dough, ensuring each bite will have those perfect little pockets of minty sweetness and chocolate texture.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, just until the edges are set but the cookies remain pale — this keeps them soft and light.
Step 7: The Powdered Sugar Coating
Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet so they’re warm but stable. Then roll them generously in powdered sugar for that snowy look. After they’ve cooled completely, roll them once more in powdered sugar for a beautifully frosted finish that really lives up to the snowball name.
How to Serve Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a few crushed candy canes over the cookies or add a sprig of fresh mint alongside your serving platter. These simple garnishes complement the mint flavor and add a colorful visual boost.
Side Dishes
Minty Snowball Cookies are wonderful with a warm beverage. Pair them with hot cocoa, peppermint tea, or a simple cup of coffee to enhance that holiday feeling. They also make a delightful dessert alongside vanilla ice cream or chocolate mousse for a richer experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies in a festive tin or on tiered cake stands dusted lightly with powdered sugar to mimic a winter wonderland. Wrapping them individually in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon makes them charming gifts that express care and warmth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Minty Snowball Cookies fresh by placing them in an airtight container at room temperature. Stored this way, they stay soft and delicious for up to one week, perfect for extending the joy through the holiday season.
Freezing
If you want to make your cookies ahead of time, you can freeze them after baking and cooling. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When properly wrapped, they can last up to three months.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen cookies, thaw them at room temperature, then warm for a few seconds in the microwave if you desire that fresh-baked softness. Just be careful not to overheat, or the powdered sugar coating might melt away.
FAQs
Can I use chocolate chips instead of chopped mint chocolate?
Absolutely! Regular chocolate chips work well, though the mint flavor might be less pronounced. You can also add a touch more peppermint extract to keep that fresh minty kick.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, just be aware it may slightly change the texture.
Can I make these cookies without peppermint extract?
If you’re not a fan of peppermint, you can omit it or replace it with almond or additional vanilla extract for a different but still delicious flavor profile.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. If the dough feels too soft, chill it briefly before rolling into balls to help the cookies hold their shape while baking.
What’s the best way to get the powdered sugar coating to stick?
Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm helps the sugar adhere beautifully. For maximum “snowiness,” doing a second roll after they’ve fully cooled is key.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give the Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe a try soon. These charming little cookies bring such a joyful freshness to your baking repertoire, combining buttery soft texture with a crisp mint flavor that’s simply unforgettable. Whether you’re baking for holiday cheer or just because, these cookies are sure to brighten any occasion with their snowy elegance and irresistible taste. Happy baking, my friend!
Print
Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully tender and minty, these Snowball Cookies are perfectly buttery with a refreshing peppermint twist and rich mint chocolate chunks. Lightly coated in powdered sugar, they offer a snowy finish that’s perfect for holiday treats or anytime you crave a minty sweet snack.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped mint chocolate (or mint chocolate chips)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand or stand mixer. Then add the vanilla and peppermint extracts, mixing well to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing just until a dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender. Gently fold in the finely chopped mint chocolate or mint chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still pale and soft to touch.
- Coat in Powdered Sugar: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes so they are warm but no longer hot. Roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat. Once fully cooled, roll them again in powdered sugar for a thick, snowy coating and extra sweetness.
- Store Properly: Transfer the cookies into an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to one week, maintaining freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Use softened butter for ease of creaming and to achieve a smooth dough consistency.
- The second powdered sugar coating really enhances the classic “snowball” look and adds extra sweetness.
- You can substitute mint chocolate with regular chocolate chips if preferred, but it won’t have the minty flavor.
- Ensure cookies are not overbaked to keep them soft and delicate inside.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
