Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe

There is something utterly magical about these Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe that brings a fresh twist to a classic favorite. Soft, buttery, and packed with delightful bursts of minty chocolate chips, these cookies are finished with a generous coating of snowy powdered sugar that melts in your mouth with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday feast or just a cozy night in, these charming snowball cookies deliver a perfect balance of cool mint and rich chocolate that will become an instant favorite in your cookie rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and that iconic powdery finish that makes these cookies so irresistible.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The base of the dough, giving it a tender and rich texture.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• ½ tsp peppermint extract: Provides the refreshing minty sparkle that defines these cookies.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The structure of the cookies, ensuring the right balance of chew and softness.
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips: Little bursts of chocolate goodness throughout every bite.
• ¼ tsp salt (optional): Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• ½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling): The final snowy coating that makes these cookies truly unforgettable.

How to Make Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

First things first, preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly without sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Powdered Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and ½ cup powdered sugar. Beat these together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this is what’ll give your cookies that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3: Add Extracts for Flavor

Next, stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts. These two ingredients are key to bringing the warm vanilla undertone and the fresh, minty punch that define this Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour and Salt

Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough tender and soft, but fully combined.

Step 5: Fold in Mini Chocolate Chips

Now for the best part: fold those mini chocolate chips right into the dough. These little gems deliver bites of rich chocolate that pair perfectly with the mint flavor, creating a delightful balance in every cookie.

Step 6: Form the Dough Balls

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them evenly spaced on your parchment-lined baking sheet. Uniform balls ensure even baking and that signature snowball shape.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes. The goal is to have them set without turning browned—the soft, pale color is what makes these snowballs so charming.

Step 8: First Sugar Roll

Once the cookies come out, let them sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes so they can firm up just a bit. While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar. This first coating starts that beautiful snowy effect.

Step 9: Cool and Final Sugar Roll

Allow the cookies to cool completely, then roll them again in powdered sugar. This second coat guarantees that classic “snowball” look and adds that extra sweetness you will love.

How to Serve Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

A light dusting of extra powdered sugar right before serving makes these cookies look like they were freshly dusted with snow. If you want to get a little fancy, a small fresh mint leaf on the side adds a pop of color and hints at the minty flavor inside.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of hot chocolate or a peppermint mocha for a cozy sipping experience that complements the mint and chocolate flavors. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side also pairs well for a refreshing dessert treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive look, arrange the cookies on a platter sprinkled with crushed peppermint candies or surrounded by fresh mint sprigs. You can also stack them in a clear jar with layers of crushed candy canes for an irresistible holiday gift idea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Keeping them sealed ensures they stay soft and don’t lose their delicate powdered sugar coat.

Freezing

To freeze these cookies, first freeze the dough balls on a tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you want fresh cookies, bake them straight from frozen—just add a couple extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

If you want that freshly-baked warmth, heat the cookies in a preheated 150°C (300°F) oven for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the powdered sugar melt unevenly and affect the texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Using regular or even chopped chocolate chips works fine, but mini chips distribute more evenly and give a nicer bite to the snowball cookies.

Is peppermint extract necessary for this recipe?

While peppermint extract is key to achieving the minty flavor that defines this Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe, you can adjust the amount to your taste or leave it out for a more subtle flavor.

Why do the cookies need two coatings of powdered sugar?

The first coating melds with the warm cookies, while the second coating sticks perfectly once cooled, giving the cookies their signature snowball appearance and extra sweetness.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but results may vary depending on the brand. It’s best to experiment or use a trusted gluten-free cookie recipe for similar results.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh and soft for up to one week, but they’re usually too good to last that long!

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about sharing a batch of Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe with friends and family. Their tender crumb, vibrant minty flavor, and irresistible snowy coating make them a delightful treat any time of year. I encourage you to bake a batch today—these cookies have a way of turning ordinary moments into delicious memories you’ll want to savor again and again.

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