Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe

If you love cookies that melt in your mouth and leave you craving just one more bite, then this Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe is absolutely for you. These delicate, buttery treats are generously rolled in a warm, aromatic cinnamon sugar mixture that gives each cookie a perfectly cozy finish. From the first crackly bite to the last crumb, these snowball cookies combine the nutty crunch of chopped walnuts or pecans with a tender, crumbly texture that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just to share with loved ones, this recipe brings a touch of festive magic to any moment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the creamy richness of butter to the gentle sweetness of powdered sugar, every component is essential in achieving that flawless melt-in-your-mouth texture and perfectly balanced flavor.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender crumb to your cookies.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and helps achieve a light, fluffy dough.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the cookie’s flavor with warm, comforting notes.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that holds your cookie together with just the right amount of structure.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens the overall flavor.
• 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans): Adds delightful crunch and earthiness to the dough.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Combines with cinnamon for that iconic snowball cookie coating.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the coating with warmth and a little spicy-sweet kick.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step might seem small, but making sure your cookies don’t stick means you’ll move smoothly through baking and cleanup, leaving you more time to enjoy those delicious results.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat your softened butter together with powdered sugar until it’s light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This process is crucial—for it creates air pockets that will help your cookies bake up tender yet tenderly crumbly.

Step 3: Add Vanilla

Stir in the vanilla extract until it’s fully incorporated. Vanilla acts like the secret ingredient that wraps all the buttery sweetness in a comforting aroma that’s simply irresistible.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk the flour and salt in a separate bowl to distribute the salt evenly. Slowly add this mixture to your butter and sugar bowl, mixing until just combined to prevent overworking the dough—which could make your cookies tough.

Step 5: Fold in the Nuts

Gently fold in your choice of chopped walnuts or pecans. These nuts add a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the cookie’s soft, melt-in-your-mouth inside—truly the hallmark of a perfect snowball cookie.

Step 6: Form the Cookies

Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet; this spacing ensures even baking and a pretty presentation once they’re done.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop your cookies into the oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Look for lightly golden bottoms, while the tops should stay pale—this visual cue guarantees that the cookies will hold their signature delicate texture.

Step 8: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the cookies bake, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This simple combination transforms your cookies into classic snowballs with its irresistible balance of sweet and spice on every bite.

Step 9: Coat the Warm Cookies

Once the cookies come out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, while they’re still warm, gently roll each cookie in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated, trapping in the buttery goodness beneath a fragrant, sweet crust.

Step 10: Cool Completely

Transfer the coated cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the coating to set perfectly, giving you the classic crunch on the outside with an irresistibly soft center.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra festive touch, try dusting the cooled cookies with a bit more powdered sugar right before serving, giving them a magical snowy appearance that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of spiced tea, a rich hot chocolate, or even a glass of cold milk. The gentle spices and buttery flavors in the cookies complement hot beverages beautifully, making each bite a comforting experience.

Creamative Ways to Present

Arrange your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe on a rustic wooden board with sprigs of fresh rosemary or pine for a charming, rustic presentation. You can also stack them with delicate linen ribbons or place them in decorative tins as lovely edible gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay tender and delicious for up to a week—perfect for enjoying a special treat throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked dough balls by arranging them on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Then transfer them to a resealable bag. When ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Baked cookies also freeze well; just layer parchment paper between batches to prevent sticking.

Reheating

To warm up frozen or stored cookies, gently heat them in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5-7 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked softness and reactivates the cinnamon sugar coating’s aroma without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts besides walnuts or pecans?

Absolutely! Almonds, hazelnuts, or even macadamia nuts can give your snowball cookies a unique twist and delicious texture. Just be sure to chop them finely for even distribution in the dough.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

The traditional recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can experiment by substituting a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly.

What if I don’t have powdered sugar?

Powdered sugar is important for the right texture and sweetness, but if you are in a pinch, finely ground granulated sugar with a bit of cornstarch can work as a replacement. The cookies might be a touch less tender but still delicious.

Why do the tops of the cookies stay pale?

That’s a sign of perfectly baked snowball cookies! They develop a lightly golden bottom while the tops remain pale, which helps maintain their soft, crumbly texture. Overbaking can make them dry, so watch closely.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

You can try using vegan butter and a flax egg substitute, but the results may vary. The texture might be less tender compared to the traditional recipe, but with a few trials, you can definitely create a tasty vegan version.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe enough if you’re searching for a cookie that feels like a warm hug. They’re buttery, tender, nutty, and perfectly dusted with a cinnamon sugar coating that elevates every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or sneaking them for yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to become one of your favorites. So go ahead, bake a batch, and let the joyful aroma fill your home!

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