If you have a craving for a sweet treat that combines the refreshing zing of mint with the comforting charm of chocolate, you are going to adore this Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe. These delicate, buttery cookies are rolled in powdered sugar, giving them a soft, snowy appearance that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. They offer the perfect balance of melt-in-your-mouth texture and bursts of mini chocolate chips, making each bite a little winter wonderland of flavor. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just want to brighten up your day with a homemade indulgence, these snowball cookies are a charming and delicious choice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, straightforward ingredients is the first step toward creating these irresistible cookies. Each one plays a key role in making your Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe a hit, from the rich butter that lends softness to the dough to the peppermint extract that infuses each bite with a refreshing lift.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a creamy base that ensures a tender texture.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and helps create that delicate crumb.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor to balance the mint.
- ½ tsp peppermint extract: Gives the signature minty freshness that makes these cookies stand out.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy structure behind the soft, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips: Small bursts of chocolate to keep each bite exciting.
- ¼ tsp salt (optional): Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling): Provides the iconic snowy coating that makes these cookies irresistible.
How to Make Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies will bake evenly and prevent sticking, making cleanup a breeze. Proper preparation is key for perfect cookies every time.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the dough, setting the stage for that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that snowball cookies are loved for.
Step 3: Mix in Vanilla and Peppermint Extracts
Next, add in the vanilla and peppermint extracts. These two ingredients bring an irresistible aroma and flavor combination that will make your cookies truly memorable. Stir well to ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter, giving every cookie the perfect hint of freshness.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and salt (if you’re using it) into your wet mixture. Mixing just until a dough forms is important here—you want to avoid overworking it, which can make the cookies tough. The result should be a soft, pliable dough ready for the fun part.
Step 5: Fold in Mini Chocolate Chips
Gently fold the mini chocolate chips into the dough. These little gems are the chocolatey surprise that elevates the Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe, adding texture and bursts of rich flavor without overwhelming the minty notes.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes—you’re aiming for a set cookie that isn’t browned, so keep a close eye on them!
Step 7: Powdered Sugar Coating
Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes—warm enough to handle but still soft. Then, roll them in powdered sugar for the first layer of that snowy finish. After they cool completely, roll them in powdered sugar again to build up that classic, snowy texture and sweet coating.
How to Serve Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For a festive touch, sprinkle extra mini chocolate chips or finely chopped fresh mint leaves on your serving platter. These small details visually enhance the cookies and hint at the flavors inside, making them even more enticing to guests.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot chocolate or a chilled glass of peppermint milk. Both options complement the mint chocolate flavors beautifully and elevate the experience, turning an everyday snack into a cozy treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe in a mason jar layered with hot cocoa mix for a cute gift idea. Alternatively, arrange them in a festive tin with some holiday-themed ribbons for a charming homemade present that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will preserve their delicate texture and ensure that your Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe stays just as delightful for several days.
Freezing
You can freeze the dough balls before baking. Simply place them on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy fresh cookies anytime the craving hits.
Reheating
If you want to warm up your cookies, pop them in a low oven or microwave for a few seconds. This refreshes the buttery softness and revives the melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes the Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use dark or milk chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Both dark and milk chocolate chips will work wonderfully. Mini chips are preferred because they distribute evenly, but feel free to use what you have or prefer for your own twist on the recipe.
Is peppermint extract necessary?
Peppermint extract is key to achieving the classic mint flavor in this recipe. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with a small amount of mint flavoring or omit it for a more subtle taste, but it won’t be quite the same.
Why are the cookies rolled in powdered sugar twice?
The first roll while warm helps the sugar stick to the cookie’s surface, creating the initial snowy coat. The second roll after cooling builds up the powdery layer that gives these cookies their signature look and delicate sweetness.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend designed for baking, you can enjoy a gluten-free version. Just make sure your blend includes xanthan gum or a similar binding agent for the best results.
How long do the cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies will stay fresh for up to a week. Their delicate texture means they’re best enjoyed sooner rather than later, but they still hold up beautifully for several days.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this fantastic Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe in your baking arsenal, you’re ready to create a sweet treat that’s wonderfully refreshing and snowy-white deliciousness all rolled into one. These cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in your own little moment of bliss. Don’t wait to try baking them; the joy they bring is simply irresistible!
Print
Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a festive and delightful treat combining the classic buttery snowball cookie with refreshing peppermint and mini chocolate chips. Soft and crumbly, with a dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy appearance, they make a perfect holiday dessert or anytime indulgence.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp peppermint extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- ¼ tsp salt (optional)
For Rolling
- ½ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and ½ cup powdered sugar using a mixer until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color.
- Add Extracts: Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract, mixing well to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the dough.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and the optional salt to the wet mixture, mixing continuously until a soft dough forms that holds together.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the mini chocolate chips into the dough, ensuring they are evenly incorporated without overmixing.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch diameter balls and place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet, giving room for slight spreading.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the cookies are set but not browned, preserving their soft texture.
- Initial Cooling and Sugar Coating: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. While still warm, gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat them evenly.
- Final Cooling and Coating: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely. Once cooled, roll the cookies again in powdered sugar for that signature snowy finish and extra sweetness.
Notes
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, you can increase the peppermint extract slightly but be cautious as it can be overpowering.
- Ensure butter is softened but not melted to achieve the right cookie texture.
- Cookies remain soft and buttery; avoid overbaking to prevent dryness.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Rolling cookies twice in powdered sugar creates the classic snowy appearance and adds extra sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
