If you are searching for a cookie that perfectly balances rich, nutty flavor with melty chocolate chips and a delightful powdered sugar coating, this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe is going to be your new obsession. These little pockets of buttery goodness combine the creamy warmth of peanut butter with the sweet surprise of mini chocolate chips, all rolled into soft snowball shapes that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re making them to celebrate a holiday, share with friends, or just treat yourself after a long day, this recipe delivers comforting flavor and irresistible texture in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all you need to whip up this crowd-pleasing cookie. Each ingredient has a special role, from providing the tender crumb and rich flavor to creating that perfect snowball exterior.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a tender texture that makes these cookies melt-in-your-mouth.
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky): Brings a deep nutty flavor and a creamy yet slightly chewy bite.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for rolling): Creates the iconic snowy coating that makes these cookies so visually inviting and sweet.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps with browning during baking.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances every flavor note and adds a lovely aromatic warmth.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough that holds everything together with just the right density.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies all the flavors.
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips: The pockets of melty, sweet chocolate that take these cookies to the next level.
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional): Adds extra crunch and enhances the peanut butter punch for those who love a contrasting texture.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep things clean and ensure your cookies bake evenly. This step sets the stage for perfectly shaped snowballs that won’t stick or flatten out.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mixing these until fluffy is key—this aeration leads to a soft, tender crumb that feels indulgent with every bite.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Slowly incorporate the all-purpose flour and salt into your creamed mixture. This will transform your blend into a pliable dough that holds together well but still feels soft and easy to shape.
Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Peanuts
Gently fold in those mini chocolate chips and chopped peanuts if you’re using them. This ensures an even distribution, so every cookie gets the perfect amount of delightful melty chocolate and crunch.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, taking care to keep them uniform for consistent baking. Place them spaced about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. This guarantees they don’t spread into each other and retain their charming round snowball appearance.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your dough balls at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the edges turn a gentle golden hue but the centers stay soft to the touch. This balance ensures the characteristic texture that makes snowball cookies so special.
Step 7: Roll in Powdered Sugar
While still warm, carefully roll each cookie in powdered sugar. This step not only sweetens the exterior but also gives them that classic snow-dusted look. Then allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet to fully set their shape and coating.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooled, these cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Their buttery, peanut butter flavor combined with the richness of chocolate chips and the delicate snowy coating will have you reaching for one after another.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Try a light dusting of extra powdered sugar just before serving to refresh their snowy look. For a little twist, you could sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top for a sophisticated sweet-salty contrast that highlights the peanut butter beautifully.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a warm mug of coffee or tea. If you’re serving at a party, a bowl of mixed nuts or fresh fruit can balance the richness and provide a nice change of texture and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your peanut butter chocolate chip snowball cookies tied with a festive ribbon for a lovely gift. Or, for a dessert platter, serve alongside small jars of peanut butter and chocolate sauce to encourage extra dipping fun. Layered in a cookie tin with parchment paper and sprigs of fresh rosemary, they make a charming holiday centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your snowball cookies fresh and tender, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You’ll want to keep them away from heat and moisture to maintain their delicate powdered sugar coating and soft texture.
Freezing
These cookies freeze beautifully, making them a perfect make-ahead treat. Freeze unbaked dough balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Or freeze baked cookies in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper.
Reheating
If you want that fresh-baked warmth, gently warm the cookies in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as they can turn crumbly. This revives that soft, melt-in-your-mouth sensation wonderfully.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter adds delightful little pops of texture from the peanuts, which contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie. Either works perfectly in this recipe.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free as written. However, you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup to make them suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Can I substitute chocolate chips with another type of chocolate?
Yes! Mini chocolate chips work best because they distribute evenly without melting too much, but chopped chocolate chunks or white chocolate chips would also be delicious alternatives, adding their unique flair.
Why do I need to roll the cookies in powdered sugar while warm?
Rolling in powdered sugar while warm helps the sugar stick better to the surface, creating that signature snowball look and an extra touch of sweetness right at the cookie’s first bite.
How long do these cookies last?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature. Beyond that, freezing is your best bet to preserve their flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
There is truly something magical about making peanut butter and chocolate come together in a soft, snowy cookie, and this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe captures that magic beautifully. Easy to make, utterly charming, and bursting with flavor, these cookies are destined to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. I can’t wait for you to try them and share the joy they bring with those you love!
Print
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies, a perfect blend of nutty peanut butter and sweet chocolate chips wrapped in a soft, buttery dough. Rolled in powdered sugar for a festive touch, these cookies are easy to make and ideal for holiday gatherings or anytime snacking.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
Coating
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is fluffy and well combined, creating a smooth base for the dough.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and salt into the creamed mixture, stirring until a cohesive dough forms.
- Fold in Mix-ins: Gently fold the mini chocolate chips and chopped peanuts (if using) into the dough, distributing them evenly without overmixing.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, spacing them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden but the centers remain soft, ensuring a tender texture.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar: While the cookies are still warm, gently roll them in powdered sugar until they are fully coated, giving them their signature snowball appearance. Then, let them cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, serve these delicious cookies as a delightful holiday treat, a thoughtful gift, or a satisfying snack any time of the year.
Notes
- You can use smooth or chunky peanut butter depending on your texture preference.
- Chopped peanuts are optional but add an extra crunch.
- Ensure the cookies are rolled in powdered sugar while warm for the best coating.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
