Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, melt-in-your-mouth treat that brings a touch of winter magic to your kitchen, this Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe is the answer. These delightful little bites combine the classic buttery texture of snowball cookies with bursts of mini chocolate chips for a fun twist, all dusted in a generous coating of powdered sugar that looks just like fresh snow. They’re the perfect blend of soft, sweet, and chocolaty, making them an irresistible treat whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon or sharing with friends at a festive gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is wonderfully simple, and each one plays a vital role in creating those tender, flavorful cookies with just the right hint of sweetness and chocolate. From the creamy butter that enriches the dough to the mini chocolate chips that add delightful pockets of chocolate, every ingredient counts.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This provides the rich, creamy base that makes the cookies tender and melt-in-your-mouth.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the crumbly, delicate texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cookies structure without making them tough.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and brings out all the flavors.
• 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips: Small, sweet bursts of chocolate for a delightful surprise in every bite.
• Additional powdered sugar for rolling: Creates the snowball effect and a lovely sweet finish.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step is key to ensuring your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This will create the perfect base, giving your cookies that tender, buttery texture we all love.

Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract

Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined. Don’t rush this step; the vanilla adds depth and warmth to the cookie’s flavor that will have everyone craving more.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir in the flour and salt just until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix here — the goal is to keep the cookies light and crumbly, not tough or dense.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold the mini chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough. These little gems will bring the chocolate charm to every bite while maintaining the cookie’s signature soft texture.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into smooth balls between your palms. This hands-on step is fun and gives you perfectly shaped cookies that will bake evenly.

Step 7: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each. This allows them room to bake without sticking together, ensuring their delicate round shape.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, until they are set but not browned. This timing preserves their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, so resist the urge to overbake!

Step 9: First Powdered Sugar Roll

Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while they are still warm. This coats them in a light, sweet snow-like dusting that starts the magic.

Step 10: Final Powdered Sugar Touch

After the cookies have cooled completely, roll them again in powdered sugar for that iconic snowy finish that makes these cookies so special and picture-perfect.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of extra powdered sugar just before serving adds an extra fairy-tale touch. You can also dust a little cocoa powder or finely grated white chocolate over the top for added visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a steaming mug of hot chocolate or a glass of cold milk to complement their sweetness perfectly. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can also turn this treat into a dreamy dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gift-giving, stack the cookies in clear jars tied with a festive ribbon or place them in decorative tins lined with parchment paper. You can also arrange them on a plate alongside colorful holiday candies or dried fruits for a charming cookie platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This keeps them fresh and maintains their soft, tender texture without drying out.

Freezing

Want to save them for later? These cookies freeze beautifully. Just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready, thaw them at room temperature, then re-dust with powdered sugar for that just-baked look.

Reheating

If you prefer your cookies warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the texture a little too soft and sticky instead of beautifully tender.

FAQs

Can I use regular-sized chocolate chips instead of mini ones?

Yes, you can! However, mini chocolate chips distribute more evenly in each bite and maintain the delicate texture of these cookies better. Regular chips might shift the balance but will still taste delicious.

Why do I need to roll the cookies twice in powdered sugar?

The first roll coats the warm cookie and slightly melts the sugar to create a sticky base that helps the second layer adhere better. This double rolling gives the cookies their trademark snowy appearance and sweet finish.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free as written. You can experiment by substituting a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture.

Can I add nuts to the Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch and complement the chocolate chips beautifully. Just fold them in along with the chocolate chips in step 5.

How do I get the cookies to be perfectly round?

Rolling the dough into smooth balls with your hands helps maintain a uniform shape. Also, spacing them on the baking sheet and avoiding overbaking keeps them from spreading too much.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe is a delightful way to add a little magic to any day. Their tender crumb, chocolaty bites, and powdery snow finish create a cozy treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. I can’t wait for you to try these and fall in love with every bite just like I did!

Print