Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

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Soft, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth, Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are the ultimate indulgence for any cookie lover. Coated in a generous layer of powdered sugar and bursting with mini chocolate chips, these little delights offer the perfect balance between rich flavor and delicate texture. Every bite crumbles gently, delivering that signature buttery softness followed by a satisfying chocolatey crunch.

These cookies are not just perfect for holidays or cookie exchanges—they’re a year-round treat that works as a quick dessert, a sweet snack with coffee, or a charming gift. With no eggs in the dough, they also cater to egg-free diets while remaining utterly decadent. Whether you’re baking for the first time or looking for a nostalgic treat, Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are delightfully simple yet unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe

• Buttery, tender texture that melts in your mouth.
• Egg-free and super easy to make with simple pantry staples.
• The mini chocolate chips add a rich contrast to the light, powdered sugar coating.
• Ideal for holidays, parties, or just a cozy evening in.
• Freezer-friendly and perfect for make-ahead treats.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get started with these cookies, you’ll want to gather the right tools:

• Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Essential for creaming the butter and sugar to get that fluffy texture.
• Mixing Bowls: A few bowls for dry ingredients, wet ingredients, and powdered sugar.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking, especially with flour and sugar ratios.
• Baking Sheet: A large, flat sheet lined with parchment paper helps the cookies bake evenly.
• Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon: To ensure uniform cookie sizes, which ensures even baking.
• Cooling Rack: Allows the cookies to cool completely and firm up before being rolled in sugar.

Each tool helps simplify the process and ensures consistent, delicious results.

Preparation Tips

Start with softened butter—cold butter won’t cream properly and will make the dough harder to manage. Mix until light and fluffy to incorporate air, which helps give the cookies their signature crumbly texture. Be gentle when folding in the flour and chocolate chips to avoid overmixing. Once rolled, chill the dough briefly to prevent spreading. After baking, let the cookies cool slightly before rolling in powdered sugar, then roll them again once completely cooled for that classic snowball look. Keep the dough covered if you’re not baking immediately to prevent drying.

Ingredients for this Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)

Optional:

• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract for added flavor depth
• Additional powdered sugar for double-coating after baking

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar together. Beat until light, fluffy, and smooth in texture. This step is crucial to achieving that soft, crumbly cookie texture.

Step 2: Add Vanilla Extract

Add the vanilla extract (and almond extract if using) to the creamed mixture. Blend again until the extract is fully incorporated, enhancing the overall aroma and flavor of the cookies.

Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the sifted flour and salt to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed or fold gently using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be soft but not sticky. This helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Step 4: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Once the flour is fully combined, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. Distribute them evenly throughout the dough without overworking it. If the dough feels too soft, chill it for 15–20 minutes before shaping.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each portion gently between your palms to form smooth balls. Place them about 1 inch apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the bottoms are just lightly golden. The tops should remain pale. Avoid overbaking; snowball cookies are meant to be soft and delicate.

Step 7: First Sugar Coating

Let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes. While still warm, roll each cookie gently in powdered sugar to create the first layer of coating. Place on a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Second Sugar Coating

Once the cookies are fully cooled, roll them again in a fresh bowl of powdered sugar. This second coat gives them their snowy, festive appearance and ensures they are fully covered in sweetness.

Notes

Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are versatile and forgiving, making them great for beginner bakers. They don’t spread much while baking, so you can fit quite a few on a single sheet. The dough can also be made ahead and refrigerated or even frozen for future baking. For an extra festive touch, consider adding finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch and added richness.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using cold butter: It won’t cream properly and will lead to dense dough.
• Overmixing the flour: This can make the cookies tough instead of tender and crumbly.
• Skipping the sugar coating steps: The double dusting in powdered sugar not only enhances flavor but also provides the signature snowball look.
• Baking too long: These cookies should be pale and barely golden on the bottom. Overbaking dries them out.
• Not letting them cool before second coating: Applying sugar to hot cookies can cause the sugar to melt and not stick evenly.

Storage Instructions

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To keep them soft and flavorful, place a piece of bread in the container to maintain moisture. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Freeze in a single layer first, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. For best results, re-coat lightly in powdered sugar after thawing.

Estimated Nutrition (per cookie, based on 24 cookies per batch)

• Calories: 140
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 40mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 14g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Roll the dough into balls and freeze on a tray. Once solid, transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

Can I use regular-sized chocolate chips?

Mini chocolate chips are preferred as they distribute more evenly in the small cookies. Regular chips can be used but may cause cracking or uneven shaping.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling is optional but recommended if your kitchen is warm. It helps the cookies hold their shape better while baking.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely. Finely chopped pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch and flavor. Use about 1/3 to 1/2 cup and fold in with the chocolate chips.

Why are my cookies dry or crumbly?

This usually happens from overbaking or adding too much flour. Make sure to measure flour using the spoon-and-level method.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can substitute a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend. Ensure it includes xanthan gum for proper structure.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can try using plant-based butter alternatives, but results may vary. Look for a vegan butter that is formulated for baking.

How long do they stay fresh?

They stay fresh for about a week in an airtight container. For longer storage, freezing is best.

Conclusion

Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat that delivers on both flavor and texture. With their buttery crumb, chocolate-studded interior, and powdery sugar finish, they’re ideal for holiday trays, special gatherings, or cozy moments with a warm drink. Easy to make and even easier to love, this cookie is a must-bake for any occasion.

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