Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe

If your sweet tooth is craving something that feels like a cozy winter hug, then the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These delightful little cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth bites dusted with a perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar, reminiscent of snowballs fresh from a snowy afternoon. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, special occasions, or just because, this recipe combines simple ingredients with a magical finish that never fails to impress and comfort all at once.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing complicated here—just straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully. Each plays an essential role, from the creamy butter giving richness to the cinnamon adding that unforgettable warm spice. Let’s look at what you’ll need to gather before diving in!

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The base of your dough, offering moisture and richness for that tender crumb.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: For subtle sweetness and that light, fluffy texture in the cookie dough.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely depth of flavor, enhancing all the other ingredients.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The structure of the cookies; sifted or measured precisely for perfect consistency.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the buttery notes.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses the dough with warm, aromatic goodness.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor for those who love a bit of texture.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: For coating the cookies, giving that signature sweet, crunchy exterior.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Mixed with granulated sugar to create that heavenly cinnamon sugar coating.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Tools

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple step ensures even baking and easy cleanup, setting you up for cookie success.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Powdered Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creaming process is crucial for the cookie’s delicate texture and melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Step 3: Add the Flavors

Mix in the vanilla extract thoroughly. This subtle flavor boost helps to round out the sweetness and complements the cinnamon perfectly.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cinnamon to the butter mixture. Stir well until you have a soft dough forming—no lumps, just a smooth, buttery consistency.

Step 5: Fold in Nuts (Optional)

If you’re a fan of nuts, gently fold in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts. They add a toasty crunch that contrasts deliciously with the tender cookie.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop and roll your dough into 1-inch balls, placing them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Keep them spaced so they bake evenly without sticking together.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake your snowball cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the bottoms are just starting to turn golden. The cookies should still look soft and pale on top—a key to that tender bite.

Step 8: Cool Slightly

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them carefully to a wire rack to cool just a bit more, making them easier to handle for coating.

Step 9: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This sweet, fragrant mix will be the signature crunch coating of your final cookie.

Step 10: Coat the Warm Cookies

While still warm, gently roll each cookie in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. This step is what transforms ordinary cookies into magical Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe treats.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling a little extra cinnamon sugar right before serving can add a sparkling finish and an aroma that invites everyone to dig in. You can also dust them lightly with powdered sugar for that fresh “snow” effect that’s visually charming.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a rich hot chocolate. Their buttery sweetness balances bold or creamy beverages perfectly, making snack time feel leisurely and indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, consider arranging these cookies on a festive platter with sprigs of fresh rosemary or holly leaves. You could also nestle them in cupcake liners or gift boxes layered with tissue paper to delight friends and family with little edible parcels of joy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to a week—perfect for enjoying over time without losing any magic.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked and cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. Freeze for up to two months and thaw at room temperature when you need a sweet treat quick.

Reheating

For that freshly baked warmth, pop your cookies in a low oven (about 300°F) for a few minutes, or microwave for 10 seconds. This revitalizes their softness and awakens the cinnamon sugar aroma all over again.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts besides pecans or walnuts?

Absolutely! Almonds or hazelnuts work wonderfully too. Just be sure to finely chop them so they blend seamlessly into the cookie dough without overpowering the texture.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, but keep an eye on texture adjustments since gluten-free doughs behave differently.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

You can! Replace the butter with a vegan butter substitute and use a powdered sugar brand that doesn’t use bone char. Vanilla extract is naturally vegan, so that stays the same.

Why do the cookies need to be rolled in cinnamon sugar while warm?

Rolling them warm helps the cinnamon sugar adhere perfectly, creating that iconic coating. If they cool completely, the sugar won’t stick as well, and you might lose that delightful crunch and flavor layer.

How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and avoid overmixing the dough once the flour is added. Chilling the dough briefly can also help maintain the shape during baking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe—it takes simple ingredients and transforms them into unforgettable bites filled with warmth and nostalgia. Whether for a cozy night in or sharing with loved ones, these cookies bring happiness with every bite. I can’t wait for you to make them and experience the joy for yourself!

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