Get ready to make your holiday season even sweeter with my Peppermint Snowball Cookies! These tasty treats blend buttery goodness with a burst of peppermint. They are perfect for sharing or enjoying by yourself. In this post, I’ll guide you through simple steps, essential ingredients, and tips to make these cookies a hit at any celebration. Let’s dive into this festive delight that everyone will love!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Festive Flavors: The delightful combination of peppermint and vanilla makes these cookies a perfect holiday treat that brings joy to every gathering.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Beautiful Presentation: Coated in powdered sugar, these cookies look like little snowballs, adding a charming touch to your holiday dessert table.
- Perfect for Gifting: Packaged in a festive box, these cookies make a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family during the holiday season.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Peppermint Snowball Cookies
To make peppermint snowball cookies, you need these key items:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
These ingredients create a rich, buttery base with a refreshing mint flavor. The crushed candies add a nice crunch and festive look.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
You can enhance your cookies with these fun additions:
– A pinch of cinnamon for warmth
– White chocolate chips for sweetness
– Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for texture
Adding these flavors can make your cookies unique and appealing.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to swap ingredients, here are some ideas:
– Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
– Replace peppermint extract with almond extract for a different taste.
– For a gluten-free version, try a gluten-free flour blend.
These substitutions keep the cookies delicious while catering to dietary needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the cookies bake evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step keeps the cookies from sticking. In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Mix until it’s light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Next, add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Mix well until the dough smells amazing. In another bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Slowly add this flour mix to the butter mix. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Now, gently fold in 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies. This adds a fun crunch and flavor. Using a tablespoon, scoop out the dough and roll it into small balls. Place these cookie balls on the baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between them.
Baking the Cookies
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Look for lightly golden edges while the centers stay pale. This ensures they are soft inside. As they bake, your kitchen will fill with a sweet peppermint scent.
Once done, take them out and let them cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. This helps them set but keeps them warm.
Cooling and Coating
Carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. While they are still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar until they’re fully coated. This makes them look like snowballs! For a festive touch, you can dust them again with powdered sugar after they cool.
Arrange your cookies on a charming platter. You might add whole peppermint candies or colorful sprinkles to make them pop. Enjoy the joy they bring to your holiday gatherings!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To make perfect peppermint snowball cookies, focus on the butter. Use unsalted butter that is soft and at room temperature. This helps create a light and fluffy dough. Mix the butter with powdered sugar for about 3-4 minutes. The goal is to blend until it is airy. When adding the flour, do not overmix. Stop mixing as soon as you see no dry flour. This keeps the cookies tender.
Storing Your Cookies
Store your cookies in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and soft for days. If you want them to last longer, layer parchment paper between the cookies. Avoid putting them in the fridge, as cool air can dry them out. Instead, keep them in a cool, dry place. You can also freeze them. Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
Serving Suggestions for Festive Occasions
For a festive touch, arrange your cookies on a bright platter. Dust them with extra powdered sugar for a snowy look. You can also add whole peppermint candies as a fun garnish. Consider serving these cookies with hot cocoa or a warm drink. This pairing brings out the peppermint flavor. Guests will love the festive feel!
Pro Tips
- Chill the Dough: For a firmer dough that’s easier to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling into balls.
- Crushed Candy Canes: Use a food processor to crush the peppermint candies for a finer texture that distributes evenly throughout the cookies.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Ovens can vary, so start checking them a couple of minutes early to prevent overbaking.
- Extra Sweet Coating: For an extra sweet touch, try adding a dash of peppermint extract to the powdered sugar before rolling the cookies.
Variations
Chocolate Peppermint Snowball Cookies
You can make peppermint snowball cookies even more fun by adding chocolate. Start by mixing in 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder with the flour. This makes a rich chocolate base. You can also use chocolate chips instead of peppermint candies. Just fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips at the same time. The result is a sweet blend of chocolate and peppermint that will delight everyone.
Nutty Peppermint Variants
Want to add some crunch? Try using nuts in your cookies. Chopped walnuts or pecans work great. Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts with the crushed peppermint candies. The nuts add a nice texture. They also give a warm, nutty flavor to the cookies. If you like almonds, try almond extract instead of peppermint extract for a twist.
Gluten-Free Options
You can enjoy peppermint snowball cookies even if you need to avoid gluten. Just swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for the best texture. You can also use almond flour for a nutty flavor. The cookies will still be soft and delicious. Just remember to check labels for any hidden gluten in your ingredients.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Cookies
To keep your peppermint snowball cookies fresh, place them in an airtight container. Layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Store the cookies at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, refrigeration helps too. Just remember to bring them back to room temp before eating.
Freezing Peppermint Snowball Cookies
You can freeze peppermint snowball cookies for later. First, let the cookies cool completely. Next, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw them at room temperature.
Best Practices for Keeping Cookies Fresh
To maintain freshness, avoid exposing cookies to air. Use airtight containers for storage. Keep cookies away from heat and moisture. If you notice any crumbs or excess sugar, clean the container before storing more cookies. For extra flavor, you can add a piece of bread in the container. This helps keep cookies soft for longer.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine. The cookies may taste a bit different. Butter gives a rich flavor and nice texture. If you prefer margarine, choose a stick form for the best results.
How long do peppermint snowball cookies stay fresh?
Peppermint snowball cookies stay fresh for about one week. Store them in an airtight container. This keeps them soft and tasty. If you want them to last longer, try freezing them.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge. It stays good for up to three days. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking.
Peppermint snowball cookies are a delightful treat, easy to make and enjoy. We covered the key ingredients, preparation steps, and helpful tips for the best results. Don’t forget to explore fun variations like chocolate or nutty options. Proper storage keeps cookies fresh for longer. I hope this guide inspires you to bake and share these festive cookies with loved ones. Enjoy the sweet flavors and festive spirit they bring to your gathering
