Peppermint Snowball Cookies

Name: Peppermint Snowball Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 48 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; ½ cup confectioners' sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped; 6 ounces white chocolate; 3-4 tablespoons crushed candy canes

By:

Marry

Published:

November 18, 2025

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There’s just something about the holidays that calls for a little something sweet, and Peppermint Snowball Cookies certainly fit the bill! These cookies blend rich, buttery goodness with the refreshing flavor of peppermint and the sweetness of white chocolate. Picture this: you’re curled up with a warm drink, the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air, and laughter filling the rooms as family gathers around. Making these cookies is not just about the treat; it’s an experience wrapped in warmth and joy.

In this blog post, I’ll take you through each step to craft your Peppermint Snowball Cookies from scratch. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, you’ll find this recipe approachable and rewarding. We’ll infuse our cookies with flavor and make sure they have that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. So, grab your mixing bowls and let’s get started!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe’s success lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The buttery base gives the cookies a melting texture that feels luxurious as you bite into them. Furthermore, the unique pairing of peppermint and white chocolate creates a harmonious taste that’s both refreshing and sweet.

As we mix our ingredients and shape our cookies, certain techniques make a world of difference. For instance, ensuring your butter is softened leads to better blending when combined with sugar. Also, taking care not to overmix the dough maintains that lovely texture that we’re after. Each of these elements plays a key role in achieving cookie perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Snowball Cookies

These Peppermint Snowball Cookies aren’t just a recipe; they’re a nostalgic nod to holiday traditions. Think about the moments spent in the kitchen with family, laughter filling the air, and memories being made. There’s just something special about sharing homemade treats during the holidays that creates lasting bonds.

Every bite of these cookies offers a delightful crunch from the crushed candy canes. Add to that the buttery flavor of the walnuts and you’ve got a cookie that feels festive and comforting at the same time. Whether you’re serving guests or treating yourself, each cookie brings joy and warmth.

Ingredients for Peppermint Snowball Cookies

To whip up a batch of Peppermint Snowball Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
½ cup confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
For the coating:
- 6 ounces white chocolate
- 3-4 tablespoons crushed candy canes (about 2-3 small candy canes)

These ingredients come together to create a deliciously festive treat, perfect for any occasion.

Creating the Perfect Peppermint Snowball Cookies

Creaming Together Butter and Sugar

Start by grabbing your stand mixer or hand mixer. Blend the softened unsalted butter and confectioners’ sugar together until it’s light and fluffy, which takes about two minutes. This process incorporates air into the mix, leading to a wonderfully airy cookie.

Adding Vanilla and Dry Ingredients

Next, mix in the vanilla extract to enhance those yummy flavors. Slowly, begin to add the all-purpose flour at a low speed. This reduces the risk of flour clouds and ensures a better blend. Once the flour is just incorporated, fold in the finely chopped walnuts, which will add that delicious nutty flavor.

Achieving the Right Dough Consistency

Now it’s time to amp up the mixer’s speed! Crank it to high for about two minutes. The dough will start resembling breadcrumbs at this point. The perfect consistency should allow you to mold it by hand without it crumbling apart—this is key for shaping those snowball cookies.

Preparing the Baking Sheets

Grab two baking sheets and line them with parchment paper or silicone mats. Start rolling the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about an inch apart. It’s important to chill the dough for at least one hour in the refrigerator. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Baking the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Once ready, bake the cookies for 15 to 18 minutes. Keep an eye out for those golden brown edges! The centers may look a bit soft, which is perfectly fine as they’ll firm up as they cool.

Cooling the Cookies

After the cookies have baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This waiting time makes it easier to transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Melting the White Chocolate

While your cookies are cooling, it’s time to melt the white chocolate. Use a small bowl for this. Microwave it in 30-second increments, stirring in between until it’s smooth and silky. Be careful not to overheat it, as chocolate can burn quickly.

Dipping and Decorating the Cookies

Time for the fun part! Dip the top of each cooled cookie into the melted white chocolate. Then, sprinkle with crushed candy canes for that perfect festive touch. Set the cookies aside to let the chocolate set. Either leave them at room temperature overnight or refrigerate them for a quicker set.

Serving Suggestions

These Peppermint Snowball Cookies pair wonderfully with warm drinks like hot cocoa or coffee. They’re perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or as a sweet treat after dinner. Your guests will be raving about these delightful cookies!

Tips for Success

To get the best results, ensure the butter is at room temperature; this is key for optimal mixing. Also, don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the dough helps maintain its shape while baking, resulting in beautifully formed cookies.

Variations

Feel free to play around with the recipe! Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty twist. If you love a stronger peppermint flavor, add a drop of peppermint extract to the dough.

Storage Tips

Storing your cookies properly keeps them fresh! Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months, but make sure they’re sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Pairing Ideas

For a refreshing twist, pair your cookies with mint tea. Alternatively, enjoy them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a decadent combination you won’t want to miss!

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, margarine can be used, but expect a slightly different flavor.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for edges that are golden brown. The centers might still seem a bit soft when you take them out.
Can I use a different type of chocolate for coating?
Absolutely! Dark or milk chocolate can be substituted for white chocolate if that’s your preference.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
Almost any nut works well, or you can leave them out altogether if desired.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, feel free to make the dough a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

These Peppermint Snowball Cookies bring a festive flavor and a touch of nostalgia to your holiday gatherings. They’re easy yet impressive additions to any cookie platter, perfect for sharing with loved ones or simply enjoying by the fireplace. You’ll discover that the delightful combination of buttery cookies and sweet peppermint makes them a new seasonal favorite in your home!