Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Snowball Cookies
Peppermint snowball cookies are soft, buttery treats infused with a festive peppermint flavor and coated in a snowy layer of powdered sugar. Their delicate texture and refreshing taste make them perfect for holiday baking, gifting, or as a light dessert option. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies deliver elegance without the fuss. The recipe’s versatility allows you to customize it to suit various tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy them. With their simple preparation and vibrant flavors, peppermint snowball cookies are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, bringing joy and festivity to any occasion.
Key Ingredients for Perfect Peppermint Snowball Cookies
To create the ultimate peppermint snowball cookies, gather these essentials: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of powdered sugar for the dough (plus 1 cup for coating), ¼ cup of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and crushed candy canes for garnish. Optional add-ins like chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans enhance the flavor and presentation. For dietary substitutions, use gluten-free flour or plant-based butter to cater to specific needs without compromising taste. Each component ensures cookies that are tender, flavorful, and utterly irresistible, capturing the essence of peppermint perfection in every bite.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Peppermint Snowball Cookies
Making peppermint snowball cookies is simple with this clear guide. Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined. Gradually mix in flour and cornstarch until a soft dough forms. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cookies are set but not browned. Let cool slightly, then roll each cookie in powdered sugar while still warm for a snowy coating. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a festive touch. This straightforward process ensures flawless cookies every time, ready to delight with their soft texture and refreshing flavor.
How to Achieve That Soft and Buttery Texture
Achieving the best results with peppermint snowball cookies involves using cornstarch to create a tender, crumbly texture. Avoid overbaking to maintain softness, ensuring the cookies remain light and delicate. Roll the cookies twice in powdered sugar once while warm and again after cooling for an extra snowy finish that enhances their visual appeal. These techniques guarantee cookies that are consistently rich, satisfying, and ready to impress with every bite. With minimal effort, you can achieve professional-quality results that rival your favorite bakery treats, making these cookies a standout addition to your holiday spread.
Pro Tips for Adding a Festive Peppermint Twist
Mastering peppermint snowball cookies requires attention to detail for optimal results. Use high-quality peppermint extract for maximum flavor, ensuring a bright and refreshing taste. Crush candy canes finely for garnishing without overpowering the texture, creating a balanced and visually appealing finish. Chill the dough for 15–20 minutes before rolling to prevent spreading, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies. These expert tips guarantee cookies that are consistently flavorful, visually stunning, and ready to impress with every batch, adding a festive flair to your holiday dessert table.
What to Serve With Peppermint Snowball Cookies for a Complete Experience
Peppermint snowball cookies pair beautifully with complementary beverages and desserts, creating a complete and satisfying experience. Serve them with hot cocoa, coffee, or a glass of cold milk to balance their sweetness and enhance their refreshing peppermint notes. Add them to a dessert platter alongside other holiday treats like brownies or shortbread for a festive spread. Complement their light flavors with beverages like sparkling water with lime or even white wine, adding elegance to any gathering. These thoughtful pairings ensure peppermint snowball cookies remain a versatile and crowd-pleasing addition to your dessert repertoire.
Creative Variations to Customize Your Peppermint Snowball Cookies
Customizing your peppermint snowball cookies opens up endless possibilities for flavor exploration. For a low-sugar option, use sugar substitutes like stevia or erythritol, catering to health-conscious preferences. Create a vegan version by swapping butter with plant-based alternatives and using flax eggs, ensuring inclusivity. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spicy upgrade, bringing warmth and intrigue to the dish. Incorporate chopped pistachios or almonds for a nutty twist, adding crunch and texture. These creative ideas cater to diverse tastes while maintaining the cookies’ signature softness and versatility, ensuring a unique and delightful experience every time.
See Also:
Frequently Asked Questions About Peppermint Snowball Cookies
Q: Can I use mint extract instead of peppermint?
A: Yes, but peppermint extract provides a stronger holiday flavor.
Q: What can I substitute for cornstarch?
A: Arrowroot powder works well for similar results.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: It can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free flour.
Q: How do I store these cookies?
A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Yes, freeze shaped dough balls for up to 3 months; bake directly from frozen.
Why These Peppermint Snowball Cookies Are a Must-Try
These peppermint snowball cookies stand out for their soft texture, bold flavors, and effortless preparation. Whether served at gatherings, dessert tables, or cozy evenings at home, they bring joy and indulgence to any occasion. Experiment with variations and presentations to make them your own, ensuring a delightful experience every time. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe proves that homemade cookies can still rival bakery-quality creations. Try them today they might just become your new go-to way to satisfy sweet cravings or impress guests with gourmet flair.
PrintPeppermint Snowball Cookies
- Total Time: 47 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Peppermint snowball cookies are soft, buttery treats infused with festive peppermint flavor and coated in snowy powdered sugar. Perfect for holiday baking, gifting, or enjoying with hot cocoa, these cookies are easy to make and endlessly customizable for all tastes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for dough)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Crushed candy canes, for garnish (optional)
- Optional: chopped nuts (almonds or pecans)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and ½ cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
- Gradually mix in flour and cornstarch until a soft dough forms. Chill dough for 15–20 minutes.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until set but not browned.
- While still warm, roll cookies in powdered sugar. Let cool slightly, then roll again for a snowy finish.
- Garnish with crushed candy canes if desired.
Notes
- Roll cookies twice in powdered sugar for best appearance and flavor.
- Chill dough before baking to help cookies hold shape.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Variations: add nuts, drizzle with chocolate, or use sugar substitutes for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg