Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Chocolate Snowball Cookies – Festive Holiday Treats

Chocolate Snowball Cookies – Festive Holiday Treats

Description

Welcome, cookie lovers! As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite as cozy as baking up a batch of Festive Chocolate Snowball Cookies! These melt-in-your-mouth treats, sometimes known as chocolate “Mexican wedding cookies” or “Russian tea cakes,” are a delightful twist on classic snowball cookies. Rolled in powdered sugar to resemble fresh snow, they’re both beautiful and delicious. Let’s dive in and make some chocolate magic happen in the kitchen!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup finely chopped nuts (optional, try pecans or walnuts)

Ingredient Substitutions:

  • Gluten-Free Flour: For gluten-free baking, replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
  • Nut-Free Option: Simply omit the nuts for a nut-free version.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key to making the cookies tender and melt-in-your-mouth.
  2. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well incorporated.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

  1. Gradually add the flour, cocoa powder, and salt to the butter mixture.
  2. Mix until the dough is smooth and the dry ingredients are fully combined.

Step 4: Fold in Nuts (Optional)

  • If using nuts, fold them into the dough until evenly distributed. This adds a nice crunch and complements the chocolate flavor.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

  • Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Space them about 1 inch apart to ensure even baking.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

  1. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set. The tops of the cookies may crack slightly, which is normal and adds a charming, rustic look.
  2. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Add the “Snow” Coating

  1. While the cookies are still warm, roll each one in powdered sugar to create the first layer of the snowy coating.
  2. Once completely cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again for a festive, snowy finish.

Equipment

Notes

  • Use Softened Butter: Make sure the butter is soft but not melted. This helps achieve a creamy dough.
  • Roll Twice in Powdered Sugar: For the best snowy effect, roll the cookies once when warm and again after they cool.
  • Get Creative with Add-Ins: Try adding a dash of peppermint extract for a holiday twist!

Find it online: https://optimalrecipes.com/chocolate-snowball-cookies-festive-holiday-treats/