Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe

If you adore the cheerful combo of cool peppermint and luscious chocolate, get ready to fall in love with these Minty Snowball Cookies! These little treats are delightfully tender, boasting a melt-in-your-mouth texture, a whisper of mint, and an irresistible snowy coating of powdered sugar. Whether you’re whipping them up for a festive holiday, a winter gathering, or just to treat yourself on a cozy afternoon, Minty Snowball Cookies deliver a burst of nostalgia and pure joy in every bite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Minty Snowball Cookies are as simple as they come, but each plays an essential part in creating that signature soft crumb, delicate sweetness, and fresh minty zing. Let’s break down what makes every component special in this cookie masterpiece:

• Unsalted butter, softened: Gives the cookies a rich, tender base and that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• Powdered sugar (plus more for rolling): Sweetens the dough subtly and clings as a pillowy snow-like coating after baking.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the mint flavor for a balanced taste.
• Peppermint extract: The star of the show, lending that refreshing, unmistakably minty punch.
• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure so those cookies hold their adorable ball shape.
• Salt: A touch sharpens all the sweet and minty notes.
• Finely chopped chocolate chips or mini chocolate chips: Brings those pools of chocolate richness in every bite—don’t skimp!
• Finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Adds extra crunch and a nutty undertone for those who love a little texture.

How to Make Minty Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper, which keeps your Minty Snowball Cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and ½ cup powdered sugar. Take your time—beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for that pillowy, almost airy crumb!

Step 2: Add the Flavor Boosters

Mix in the vanilla and peppermint extracts. These two bring a harmonious flavor profile, giving you that cozy, nostalgic vanilla with a clean, tingly mint finish classic to Minty Snowball Cookies. Don’t be afraid of the peppermint; its aroma is uplifting from the very start!

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. The dough might seem a tad crumbly at first, but keep stirring and it will come together beautifully. Overmixing isn’t your friend here—stop as soon as no streaks of flour remain to keep the cookies tender.

Step 4: Stir in the Chocolate (and Nuts!)

Gently fold in the finely chopped chocolate chips and, if you’re a fan, the pecans or walnuts. The mini chips are perfect for an even distribution, meaning every Minty Snowball Cookie has pops of chocolate in each bite. The nuts are optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor and a subtle crunch.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

With the dough ready, scoop out small pieces and roll them into 1-inch balls—your hands are the best tool for this. Place the dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet at least 1 inch apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, just until the bottoms turn lightly golden. Watch closely; you’re looking for pale, snowball-like cookies!

Step 6: The Signature Snowy Finish

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. While still warm but set, gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar. This helps the sugar cling for that classic snowy look. After the cookies have cooled completely, roll them in powdered sugar again to ensure they’re double-coated for maximum snowy magic—this is the Minty Snowball Cookie’s irresistible signature!

How to Serve Minty Snowball Cookies

Garnishes

To turn your Minty Snowball Cookies into festive showstoppers, try sprinkling some crushed peppermint candies over the fresh powdered sugar layer. This extra touch not only looks beautiful but adds even more minty crunch. You can also drizzle a streak or two of melted chocolate for a gourmet flair.

Side Dishes

Pair your cookies with a cozy mug of cocoa, a steamy latte, or even an herbal mint tea for a wintertime treat. They’re delightful on a holiday dessert platter alongside other seasonal favorites, like gingerbread men or thumbprint cookies. For a more playful side, serve them with small bowls of chocolate chips or extra peppermint pieces for dunking and customizing.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack Minty Snowball Cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for easy gifting, or arrange them in a snowflake-shaped tin for a stunning edible centerpiece. For parties, pile them high on a cake stand dusted with extra powdered sugar or nestle them into mini cupcake wrappers for an elegant buffet presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place completely cooled cookies in an airtight container and store them at room temperature. They’ll stay deliciously fresh for up to a week, making them perfect for prepping ahead or nibbling over several days (if they last that long!). Storing with a small piece of bread will help maintain their moist, tender crumb.

Freezing

For longer storage, arrange the Minty Snowball Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. They’ll keep their flavor for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature and toss in more powdered sugar before serving for that just-baked look.

Reheating

These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you want to bring back that freshly baked feel, pop them in a 250°F (120°C) oven for 3–4 minutes. Let them cool slightly, then dust again with powdered sugar if needed. This quick trick revives their texture without melting the snowy coating.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?

Absolutely! A good-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking blend works wonders in these Minty Snowball Cookies. Just watch the texture—it might be a bit more delicate, so let them cool fully before rolling in sugar.

How strong is the mint flavor?

The mint is pleasantly prominent without being overpowering, but you can tailor it to taste! If you love bold peppermint, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract, or sprinkle crushed peppermint candies as suggested for a more intense zing.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes! The dough for Minty Snowball Cookies can be made up to two days ahead and stored, tightly wrapped, in the fridge. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes before scooping and baking to make it easier to handle.

What’s the best way to chop the nuts and chocolate?

Use a sharp knife or a quick pulse in a food processor for best results. The pieces should be fine enough to mix smoothly into the dough and distribute flavor evenly, but not so small that they disappear!

Are Minty Snowball Cookies kid-friendly?

Definitely! Kids love helping with every step, from rolling the dough to tossing the warm cookies in “snow.” Plus, the flavor is a crowd-pleaser for all ages, making them a wonderful family project.

Final Thoughts

There’s something simply magical about biting into a Minty Snowball Cookie—the cool mint, melty chocolate, and snowy sweetness all in a single, happy mouthful. If you’re looking to brighten your dessert table or share a heartfelt homemade treat, don’t miss the chance to bake up a batch of these irresistible cookies. Happy baking and enjoy every snowy bite!

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