Peppermint Snowball Cookies: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for the Holidays

Peppermint Snowball Cookies embody the spirit of the festive season. These delightful treats are a perfect blend of buttery goodness and refreshing peppermint flavor, creating a cookie that brings joy to every bite. The snowy appearance of these cookies, dusted with powdered sugar, makes them feel like little bites of winter wonder. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a family gathering, or simply indulging yourself, Peppermint Snowball Cookies are sure to impress.
If you’ve never tried these cookies before, prepare to be amazed by their melt-in-your-mouth texture and the delightful burst of peppermint in every bite. The combination of rich butter and the cool taste of peppermint creates a wonderful experience that is both comforting and festive. In this guide, you will learn why this recipe is a must-try, the simple steps to prepare them, and tips for serving them beautifully. Get ready to embrace the holiday spirit with these incredible cookies!
With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be on your way to creating Peppermint Snowball Cookies that will become a holiday staple in your home. The delightful aroma of these cookies baking will fill your kitchen, and the smiles on your loved ones’ faces when they take their first bite will be priceless. Let’s explore the reasons why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it a joyful experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peppermint Snowball Cookies bring a festive flair to your holiday baking. Here are a few reasons why this recipe stands out:
1. Easy to Make: The steps are straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
2. Festive Flavor: The peppermint flavor is refreshing and perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season.
3. Perfect for Sharing: These cookies make beautiful gifts and are ideal for holiday cookie exchanges.
4. Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: The buttery, crumbly texture makes them irresistible.
5. Customizable: You can adjust the peppermint intensity to suit your taste or even substitute other flavors if desired.
6. Stunning Presentation: The powdered sugar coating gives them a delightful snow-like appearance.
These cookies are more than just desserts; they create memories and bring people together. With their festive charm and delicious flavor, Peppermint Snowball Cookies are sure to become a beloved tradition in your home!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating Peppermint Snowball Cookies is a quick endeavor that yields delightful results. Here’s the breakdown of the time required:
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Chilling Time: 30 minutes
– Baking Time: 12-15 minutes
– Cooling Time: 10 minutes
Overall, you can expect to spend about 1 hour on this delightful recipe, making it a perfect choice for last-minute holiday baking!

Ingredients

– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– ½ cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup finely chopped nuts (optional)
– ¼ teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Peppermint Snowball Cookies:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Extracts: Mix in the vanilla and peppermint extracts until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Add Nuts (Optional): If using, fold in the finely chopped nuts for added texture.
6. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
7. Shape Cookies: Once chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Cool and Dust: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they are still warm, dust them generously with additional powdered sugar.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled completely, serve your Peppermint Snowball Cookies or store them in an airtight container.
These steps ensure that your cookies come out perfectly every time, allowing you to enjoy the incredible flavors of peppermint and buttery goodness!

How to Serve

When it comes to serving Peppermint Snowball Cookies, consider the following tips for an amazing presentation:
1. Plate Elegantly: Use a decorative platter or cake stand to display your cookies beautifully.
2. Add a Festive Touch: Garnish the plate with fresh mint leaves or small holiday decorations for a cheerful look.
3. Pair with Beverages: Serve these cookies alongside hot cocoa, coffee, or tea to create a cozy atmosphere.
4. Gift-Worthy: Package them in festive boxes or bags with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
5. Encourage Sharing: Place them in a cookie jar for easy access, inviting family and friends to enjoy them throughout the holidays.
By considering these serving tips, you’ll elevate the experience of enjoying Peppermint Snowball Cookies, making them a memorable treat for everyone!

Additional Tips

– Use Quality Butter: Opt for high-quality unsalted butter for a richer flavor. This will enhance the overall taste of your Peppermint Snowball Cookies.
– Chill the Dough Thoroughly: Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to handle but also helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
– Customize the Sugar Coating: For an added twist, consider mixing crushed candy canes with powdered sugar for a festive decoration.
– Experiment with Extracts: Try using different extracts, such as almond or orange, in place of peppermint for a unique flavor profile.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to get creative with these delightful cookies! Here are some variations to consider:
1. Chocolate-Dipped Version: Dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate for a decadent treat.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
3. Add a Twist: Incorporate mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chips into the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Holiday Sprinkles: Mix in festive sprinkles to the dough for a colorful touch that will brighten your holiday cookie platter.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Store your Peppermint Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 1 week.
– Freezing: For longer storage, these cookies freeze well. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.

Special Equipment

To make your baking experience smooth, you may want to have the following equipment handy:
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer or whisk
– Parchment paper for lining the baking sheet
– Cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes
– Wire rack for cooling

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used, it may alter the flavor and texture of the cookies. For best results, stick with unsalted butter.
How can I tell when the cookies are done?
Look for the edges to be lightly golden brown, while the centers will still be soft. They will firm up as they cool.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, try chilling it for an additional 10-15 minutes. You can also dust your hands with flour when shaping the cookies.
Are these cookies suitable for large gatherings?
Absolutely! Peppermint Snowball Cookies are perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, and family gatherings.

Conclusion

Peppermint Snowball Cookies are a delightful addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Their buttery texture combined with the refreshing taste of peppermint creates an irresistible treat that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these cookies are sure to brighten any festive occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or shared as gifts, they encapsulate the joy of the holiday season. Embrace the spirit of giving and baking this season with these incredible cookies!

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