Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies
Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies are the ultimate treat for any occasion. With their rich chocolate flavor and a delightful powdered sugar coating, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or even just a cozy evening at home. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and the option to add nuts or chocolate chips make them uniquely versatile and irresistibly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: These cookies require simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making them perfect for bakers of any skill level.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and butter creates a decadently rich chocolate taste that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Versatile Options: You can customize these cookies with optional nuts or mini chocolate chips to suit your preferences.
- Perfect for Gifting: Their beautiful appearance makes them an ideal gift for friends and family during the holiday season.
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: The soft and tender inside contrasts beautifully with the sugary exterior, creating a delightful texture experience.
Tools and Preparation
To ensure your Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies turn out perfectly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone mats
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools save time and energy while ensuring that your butter and sugar are perfectly creamed.
- Mixing bowls: Using multiple bowls helps keep wet and dry ingredients organized, making your workflow efficient.
- Parchment paper or silicone mats: These liners prevent sticking, making it easier to remove cookies without damaging their shape.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – Try Kerrygold Butter for premium flavor and texture.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling) – Domino Confectioners’ Sugar is my go-to for smooth coatings.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – King Arthur Flour delivers consistent, high-quality results.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Ghirardelli Premium Cocoa Powder is perfect for rich chocolate notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
How to Make Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
Step 4: Fold in the Nuts and Chocolate Chips
Stir in the finely chopped nuts and mini chocolate chips (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the bottoms are lightly browned. Be careful not to overbake; these cookies should remain soft and tender inside.
Step 7: Roll in Sugar
Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. While still warm, roll each cookie in a generous amount of powdered sugar, ensuring they’re fully coated. Place the cookies on a wire rack to cool completely, then give them one more roll in powdered sugar for that classic snowball look.
How to Serve Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies
Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a holiday gathering or simply indulging at home, these cookies are versatile enough to pair with many accompaniments.
With a Glass of Milk
- A cold glass of whole or almond milk complements the rich chocolate flavor perfectly.
As Part of a Cookie Platter
- Arrange these cookies alongside other festive treats like gingerbread and sugar cookies for an inviting dessert display.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an added touch of decadence.
With Fresh Berries
- Pair the cookies with strawberries or raspberries to balance their sweetness and add a refreshing element.
Enjoyed Warm
- For the ultimate experience, serve them warm right out of the oven, allowing the chocolate chips to melt slightly.
How to Perfect Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies
To ensure your Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter helps create a lighter texture in your cookies.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft, refrigerate it for about 15 minutes before baking.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should look set but still soft in the center when you take them out.
- Double Roll in Sugar: For that perfect snowy finish, roll them twice in powdered sugar while they’re still warm and again once cooled.
- Store Properly: Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and moisture.
Best Side Dishes for Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies
These delectable cookies can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some ideas to enhance your dessert experience.
- Hot Cocoa: A steaming cup of hot chocolate makes for a cozy pairing with these sweet treats.
- Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the snowball cookies beautifully.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla or mint chocolate chip ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a refreshing offset to the richness of the chocolate.
- Cheese Plate: Include some mild cheeses like Brie or Gouda for an unexpected savory twist alongside your cookies.
- Chai Latte: The spices in chai complement the chocolate flavor while providing warmth and comfort.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Ignoring the butter temperature: Using cold butter will lead to dense cookies. Always use softened butter for a light texture.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can create tough cookies. Stop mixing as soon as the dry ingredients are incorporated.
- Skipping the cooling step: Rolling cookies in sugar while too hot can cause it to melt. Allow them to cool slightly first for better coating.
- Not measuring accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin your cookie’s consistency. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts.
- Overbaking the cookies: Baking too long makes them hard instead of soft. Keep an eye on them and remove when edges are set.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies
- Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie for 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate.
- Stovetop: Warm cookies in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you enjoy your Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies even more!
Can I substitute nuts in Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies?
Yes! You can omit nuts or replace them with seeds or dried fruits if preferred.
How should I store Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for fresh taste.
Can I make Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it before baking.
What is the best way to roll cookies in powdered sugar?
Roll just after they cool slightly, then give them another roll once completely cooled for maximum snowy effect.
Final Thoughts
These Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies are not just delicious; they’re versatile too! You can experiment with different nuts, add spices like cinnamon, or use various chocolate types. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings or simply as a cozy treat at home. Give them a try and enjoy the delightful chocolate flavor wrapped in powdered sugar!
Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies are a must-try for any chocolate lover. These delightful treats feature a rich chocolate flavor and a snowy powdered sugar coating, making them perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or cozy nights at home. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and the option to add nuts or mini chocolate chips, these cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Easy to prepare, they will impress friends and family alike, whether served warm or as part of a festive dessert platter. Indulge in the ultimate holiday treat with these Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate this mixture into the butter mixture until just combined.
- Fold in any optional nuts or chocolate chips.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls; place on prepared baking sheets an inch apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft.
- Allow cookies to cool slightly before rolling in powdered sugar; then cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
