Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe

If you’re craving a treat that feels like a cozy winter day wrapped up in a cookie, you’ve got to try this Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe. These tender, buttery delights are dusted generously with cinnamon sugar, making each bite a perfect blend of warmth and sweetness. Packed with a satisfying crunch from chopped nuts and carrying the nostalgic charm of classic snowball cookies, this recipe is an absolute must-make for anyone who loves homemade sweets with an old-school vibe. Whether it’s for holiday gatherings or just a sweet pick-me-up, these cookies bring joy with every snowball-shaped bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s truly wonderful about this recipe is how simple yet essential the ingredients are. Each one plays a starring role in creating the cookies’ delicate texture, rich flavor, and that iconic snowball appearance.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich, creamy base that keeps the cookies tender and flavorful.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the dough smoothly and helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note that enhances all the flavors.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The structure builder that gives the cookies their perfect crumb.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and deepens the overall flavor.
• 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans): Brings delightful crunch and a nutty dimension.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Used for coating, adds a contrasting texture to the soft centers.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Infuses those irresistible warm spice notes that define this recipe.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps avoid any sticky situations and ensures your cookies bake evenly with a golden underside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This takes about 2 to 3 minutes and is the foundation for achieving those melt-in-your-mouth snowball cookies.

Step 3: Add Vanilla

Mix in the vanilla extract, stirring until it’s fully incorporated. This little addition boosts the flavor complexity and brings a lovely fragrance to your dough.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour and salt in a separate bowl. Then, slowly add this dry mixture to your butter mixture, combining just until you see no more flour patches. The key here is not to overmix so the cookies stay tender.

Step 5: Fold in Nuts

Gently fold in the chopped nuts. Whether you prefer the richness of pecans or the robustness of walnuts, these nuts add texture and a toasty note that plays beautifully with the cinnamon sugar coating.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Form the dough into 1-inch balls using your hands or a cookie scoop. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet—about 2 inches apart to allow for gentle spreading.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes. You want the bottoms to be lightly golden, but keep the tops pale and soft. This contrast is part of what makes these snowball cookies so special.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the cookies bake, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This aromatic blend is what transforms these cookies into the iconic Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe you’ll want to share over and over.

Step 9: Coat the Cookies

After baking, let the cookies cool on the sheet for five minutes. Then, while still warm, roll each cookie in the cinnamon sugar mix until completely coated. This step creates the delightful crackly outer layer that melts perfectly on your tongue.

Step 10: Cool Completely

Transfer the coated cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This final touch ensures the sugar coating sets just right and your snowball cookies hold their shape beautifully.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

These cookies are fabulous on their own, but if you want to add a little something extra, sprinkle a tiny pinch of powdered sugar over them for a fresh snowfall effect. A few extra chopped nuts on top right after coating can provide a rustic look and added crunch.

Side Dishes

Pair these snowball cookies with a hot cup of spiced apple cider, rich hot chocolate, or your favorite tea for the ultimate cozy snack. Their buttery, nutty flavors complement warm drinks in every season, making them perfect for afternoon treats or holiday celebrations.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your cinnamon sugar snowball cookies in small glass jars tied with a festive ribbon for charming homemade gifts. Or create a dessert platter by combining them with dipped chocolates, fresh berries, and whipped cream for a stunning and crowd-pleasing display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cinnamon sugar snowball cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delightfully soft for up to a week, perfect for savoring over several days or sharing with friends.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies to enjoy later! After rolling them in the cinnamon sugar coating and cooling completely, place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They’ll maintain their flavor and texture for up to three months.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen cinnamon sugar snowball cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature. If you want that freshly-baked warmth, pop them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes to revive their buttery softness and cinnamon sugar sparkle.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts in the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! Walnuts and pecans are traditional choices, but feel free to experiment with almonds, hazelnuts, or even mixed nuts to suit your taste. Just make sure they’re finely chopped to evenly distribute in the dough.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make a gluten-free version, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, but be aware it might slightly alter the texture.

Why do the cookies remain pale on top?

The tops stay pale because this recipe focuses on a tender, soft texture rather than a crispy crust. The slight golden bottom comes from baking, ensuring a nice balance between soft and baked through.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

With some ingredient swaps, yes! Replace butter with a vegan margarine or coconut oil and use a powdered sugar that’s vegan-certified. Vanilla extract is typically vegan, so that’s safe, too. The nuts and spices are naturally vegan.

What’s the best way to ensure the cinnamon sugar coating sticks?

Rolling the cookies while they’re still warm from the oven is key. The residual heat helps the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly, forming that signature snowball cookie crust that’s deliciously sweet and slightly crunchy.

Final Thoughts

It’s hard not to fall in love with this Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe. From the buttery dough to the cozy cinnamon sugar coating, every bite is like a little celebration. Whether it’s your first time or your hundredth, these cookies have a timeless charm that never fades. I truly hope you give them a go and make some wonderful memories sharing these little snowballs of joy with your favorite people.

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