Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie that perfectly balances melt-in-your-mouth tenderness with a fun twist of chocolate, you’re going to adore this Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe. I absolutely love how these cookies look dusted in powdered sugar, like little snowballs that taste far better than any winter treat you can buy. When I first tried making them, I was amazed by how the mini chocolate chips added just enough sweet surprise in every bite without overpowering the classic buttery dough.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe really comes from high-quality staples working in harmony. I find that soft, room-temperature butter is a key player here — it mixes up smooth and light, helping create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Unsalted butter: I always use unsalted so I can control the salt level better; be sure it’s softened to room temp for easier mixing.
• Confectioners sugar: This powdery sugar is essential not only inside the dough but also for rolling the cookies so they get that classic snowy finish.
• Vanilla extract: Choose pure vanilla for a rich, warm flavor that complements the chocolate chips.
• All-purpose flour: The no-fuss choice to create structure while keeping the cookies tender.
• Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
• Mini semi-sweet chocolate chips: I like minis because they distribute evenly and melt gently without overpowering each bite.
• Additional confectioners sugar (for rolling): This double dusting is what really nails the look and taste.

Variations

I love how adaptable this Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe is—sometimes I like to mix things up depending on the season or what I have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own.

• Nutty Twist: Adding finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough gives a lovely crunch that my family goes crazy for, especially around the holidays.
• White Chocolate Version: Swapping mini chips with white chocolate chips provides a sweeter, creamier flavor that’s just as delicious.
• Gluten-Free Swap: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour for a version that everyone can enjoy.
• Seasonal Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds a warm, cozy vibe that I adore when it’s chilly outside.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream Your Butter, Sugar & Vanilla

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. Then, in a stand mixer or with a hand mixer, beat your softened butter, confectioners sugar, and vanilla extract until it’s light, fluffy, and creamy—about 3 to 5 minutes. It’s really worth taking the time here; this is what gives the cookies their tender crumb and delicate texture.

Step 2: Gradually Add Flour and Salt

Switch your mixer to low and slowly incorporate the flour and salt. Then bump up the speed to medium and mix just until everything comes together into a dough. Watch out not to overmix — you want a dough that holds together but stays soft enough to shape easily. Scrape down the sides of your bowl as needed to make sure it all combines.

Step 3: Stir in Mini Chocolate Chips

With your dough ready, gently fold in the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips by hand. This keeps them evenly spread without crushing or melting them before baking.

Step 4: Form and Bake Your Cookies

Scoop your dough by the tablespoon and roll into balls. Place them on your lined baking sheets, giving each at least an inch of space—they don’t spread much, but you want to avoid sticking. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, keeping a close eye so the bottoms are just lightly golden. Overbaking can dry these out, so take them out as soon as you see that gentle tint of color.

Step 5: Roll in Confectioners Sugar and Cool

Once the cookies come out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes—just warm enough to handle without burning your fingers. Roll each cookie generously in the additional confectioners sugar. They’ll look so festive and gorgeous! Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra-thick snowy coat, roll them in fresh powdered sugar again once fully cooled.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For a festive presentation, I sometimes sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon or even a touch of edible glitter on top after rolling in the confectioners sugar—it adds a subtle sparkle that’s fun for holiday gatherings. Fresh mint leaves on the plate also brighten up the feel if you’re serving these for a party.

Side Dishes

I’ve found these cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of chai tea or a glass of cold milk for the kids. Around the holidays, I love serving them alongside my homemade hot chocolate topped with whipped cream for an extra indulgent combo.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I arrange these snowball cookies in a decorative tin layered with parchment paper and tied with a festive ribbon. Another fun idea I discovered is stacking them into a “cookie snowman” and decorating with mini candies as buttons—it’s always a hit with guests of all ages!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep mine in an airtight container at room temperature, layered with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. They usually stay fresh for up to a week, though mine rarely last that long because everyone sneaks them!

Freezing

One trick I love is freezing the dough balls before baking—just shape and freeze on a tray, then pop them into a labeled bag. When you’re ready, bake directly from frozen and add a couple extra baking minutes. This way, fresh cookies are always just minutes away when guests drop by.

Reheating

If you want to reheat leftover cookies, I use a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes wrapped loosely in foil to soften them up without drying them out. Avoid microwaving, which can make cookies too soft and mushy instead of wonderfully tender.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites because it combines simplicity with a bit of whimsy—the snowball look makes them feel special, but they’re so easy to whip up on any given day. Whether it’s a holiday party, a cozy night in, or just an excuse to bake something delightful, these cookies never disappoint. I can’t wait for you to try them and enjoy each tender, chocolate-studded bite just as much as my family and I do!

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