What Are Peppermint Snowball Cookies? A Festive Holiday Treat
Peppermint Snowball Cookies are soft, buttery cookies rolled in powdered sugar and infused with peppermint flavor for a festive twist on the classic snowball cookie. This treat has quickly gained popularity as one of the best holiday desserts, appealing to bakers and dessert lovers alike. Perfect for those exploring Christmas baking ideas, these cookies offer a delightful option that fits seamlessly into various celebrations. Their charm lies in their simplicity served at parties, gifted to loved ones, or enjoyed as a snack, they bring joy with minimal effort. Whether presented as a centerpiece dessert or packaged as edible gifts, these crowd-pleasing sweets promise satisfaction with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Snowball Cookies Recipe
The magic of Peppermint Snowball Cookies lies in their unique combination of melt-in-your-mouth texture, refreshing peppermint flavor, and sweet powdered sugar coating for a satisfying bite. Unlike classic snowball cookies, which often rely on nuts like pecans or almonds for flavor, this recipe delivers a vibrant peppermint twist that stands out during the holiday season. Its adaptability makes it ideal for serving at casual gatherings or formal events without overwhelming portions. Compared to other homemade treats, these cookies stand out for their vibrant flavor profile and ability to pair with everything from hot cocoa to eggnog. For those seeking easy holiday recipes, this recipe is a standout choice, offering impressive results with minimal effort. As a prime example of flavorful homemade treats, these cookies prove that simplicity and flavor can go hand in hand, making them a favorite among home bakers.
Key Ingredients for Making Perfect Peppermint Snowball Cookies
To prepare Peppermint Snowball Cookies, gather these essentials: For the dough, use 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Optional red food coloring adds festive flair. For coating, have additional powdered sugar ready for rolling after baking. These pantry staples ensure accessibility without requiring exotic ingredients. Freshly measured ingredients contribute to consistent results, while peppermint extract enhances the holiday spirit. With these accessible baking supplies, home bakers are equipped to create cookies that are both visually stunning and delicious.
Tools and Equipment Required
Making Peppermint Snowball Cookies requires some basic yet essential baking tools. Mixing bowls help combine ingredients efficiently, while an electric mixer or whisk ensures smooth, lump-free dough consistency. A spatula aids in folding and transferring the mixture, while a cookie scoop or tablespoon ensures uniform size for even baking. Use baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking, and a cooling rack allows cookies to set properly after baking. Prepping ingredients ahead of time like measuring dry ingredients or softening butter streamlines the process, allowing you to focus on creating seamless, professional-quality results. Using a cookie scoop not only simplifies portioning but also enhances the overall presentation, making it easier to achieve bakery-worthy cookies at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking Peppermint Snowball Cookies
To create Peppermint Snowball Cookies, start by preparing the dough: cream 1 cup of softened butter with 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, and optional red food coloring for festive flair. Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Chill the dough for 30 minutes to firm it up. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls, place them on parchment-lined baking sheets, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, watching for a light golden color. While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar to coat evenly. Look for visual cues like a tender texture and sugary coating. This foolproof recipe requires just 15 minutes of prep, 30 minutes of chilling, and 10–12 minutes of baking, making it ideal for stress-free cooking.
Tips for Achieving the Best Peppermint Snowball Cookies
To elevate your Peppermint Snowball Cookies, avoid overmixing the dough to prevent crumbliness and ensure proper chilling time for a firmer texture. Enhance speppermint flavor by adding extra extract or rolling the cookies in crushed candy canes for a festive crunch. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or freeze for longer preservation. For those practicing baking hacks, warm cookies briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3–5 minutes to restore freshness. These small adjustments ensure consistent quality while allowing you to tailor the cookies to your preferences, making them a reliable option for elegant desserts.
How to Customize Your Peppermint Snowball Cookies
Peppermint Snowball Cookies are incredibly versatile and can be customized with flavors like chocolate drizzle, white chocolate chips, or crushed candy canes for variety. Swap traditional coatings by rolling cookies in crushed nuts, sprinkles, or a mix of powdered sugar and cinnamon for unique presentations that cater to diverse tastes. For dietary preferences, use gluten-free flour or vegan substitutes without compromising flavor. These customizable recipes cater to various needs, offering endless possibilities. Elevate your cookies further with gourmet touches like edible glitter or a dusting of crushed candy canes. Each variation transforms the base recipe into something unique yet equally delightful, proving that this treat is as adaptable as it is satisfying. Whether enjoyed during holiday gatherings or tailored for special occasions, these upgrades make every batch memorable.
Serving Suggestions: Pairing Peppermint Snowball Cookies with Other Treats
Peppermint Snowball Cookies shine during holiday gatherings, Christmas parties, or as edible gifts. Pair them with complementary beverages like hot cocoa, coffee, or eggnog for an indulgent experience. Use dessert pairing tips to enhance presentation arrange cookies on a tiered tray or package them in decorative boxes tied with ribbon for added flair. Adding decorative touches like edible flowers or a sprinkle of powdered sugar makes the dish visually appealing and inviting. Whether enjoyed solo or shared with others, these cookies bring joy and style to any table setting. Their adaptability ensures they fit seamlessly into various menus, delighting guests and family alike.
Storage Tips: How to Keep Your Peppermint Snowball Cookies Fresh
For optimal shelf life, store Peppermint Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or freeze for longer preservation. Freeze cookies in a single layer or stack them with parchment paper in between for up to three months, making them a convenient option for advance preparation. Reheat briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3–5 minutes to restore freshness. Watch for signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or stale texture, and discard if present. Following proper food storage tips ensures your cookies remain fresh and flavorful over time. Proper storage not only maintains quality but also allows you to enjoy these treats whenever inspiration strikes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Peppermint Snowball Cookies
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Butter is recommended for optimal flavor and texture.
Q: How long do these cookies stay fresh?
A: Up to 5 days at room temperature; freeze for longer storage.
Q: Is there a way to make them vegan?
A: Substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.
Q: Do I need to chill the dough?
A: Chilling ensures a firmer dough but isn’t mandatory for smaller cookies.
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Yes, freeze dough balls for up to 3 months and bake directly from frozen.
Why Peppermint Snowball Cookies Are Perfect for the Holidays
Peppermint Snowball Cookies stand out as a must-try treat for bakers of all skill levels. Their combination of soft texture, refreshing peppermint flavor, and sweet powdered sugar coating makes them a favorite among families and dessert enthusiasts, while their versatility ensures they fit any occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations, adding personal touches to suit your taste buds. Share your creations with friends and family they’ll appreciate the effort and creativity behind each batch. Ready to try this ultimate comfort food? Dive into the recipe today and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Your feedback inspires others to explore easy cooking solutions and enjoy delicious, crowd-pleasing dishes at home.
Print
Peppermint Snowball Cookies
- Total Time: 57 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Peppermint Snowball Cookies are soft, buttery holiday treats infused with peppermint flavor and rolled in powdered sugar for a festive twist. Perfect for Christmas gatherings, edible gifts, or enjoying with hot cocoa, these cookies deliver a melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing holiday flair with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dough)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Optional: red food coloring
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
- Additional powdered sugar, for coating
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and optional red food coloring.
- Gradually add flour, cornstarch, and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes to firm it up.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Shape dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- While warm, roll cookies in powdered sugar. Cool slightly, then roll again for a snowy coating.
Notes
- Chill dough for best texture and shape.
- Enhance flavor with crushed candy canes or extra peppermint extract.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 5 days, or freeze up to 3 months.
- For a festive variation, drizzle with chocolate or add white chocolate chips.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (+30 minutes chilling)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 40 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
