These delightful Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a must-have holiday treat. Their buttery texture and mini chocolate chips make them irresistible. Coated in sweet powdered sugar, these cookies are perfect for festive gatherings, cookie exchanges, or cozy evenings by the fire. Enjoy these melt-in-your-mouth bites that combine a nutty crunch from almonds with the sweetness of chocolate—ideal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of butter, chocolate chips, and almonds creates a rich flavor that everyone will love.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual get-together, these cookies fit right in.
- Make Ahead: They store well in an airtight container, making them great for prepping ahead of time.
- Impressive Presentation: The snowy powdered sugar coating looks festive and adds to the holiday spirit.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Cookie sheets
- Spatula
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This makes creaming the butter and sugar effortless and ensures thorough mixing.
- Food processor: Perfect for grinding almonds quickly and evenly, saving you time.
- Cookie sheets: Using light-colored sheets helps prevent over-browning on the bottoms of your cookies.
Ingredients
These buttery, tender Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a melt-in-your-mouth holiday classic, swirled with mini chocolate chips and coated in sweet powdered sugar. With a delicate nutty crunch from almonds, these festive cookies are perfect for cookie trays, holiday parties, or enjoying with a cozy cup of cocoa.
For the Cookies
- ¾ cup sliced almonds
- 2 cups (282g) all-purpose flour (scoop and level to measure)
- ¼ + ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, halfway softened
- 1½ cups (192g) powdered sugar, divided
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (160g) mini chocolate chips
How to Make Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Almonds
Grind the sliced almonds in a food processor until they reach tiny bits. Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until combined. Set this mixture aside as well.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the halfway softened butter and ½ cup (64g) of powdered sugar until it’s just blended and slightly creamy; avoid making it too fluffy.
Step 5: Add Vanilla
Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined with the butter-sugar mixture.
Step 6: Combine Mixtures
With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture. Mix until just combined. Stir in both mini chocolate chips and ground almonds until evenly distributed. If needed, use a spatula to fold everything together gently.
Step 7: Form Cookies
Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough at a time and roll it into balls. Place each ball on an ungreased cookie sheet—aim to fit about 16 per sheet for optimal baking space.
Step 8: Bake
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes or until their bottoms turn lightly golden.
Step 9: First Sugar Coat
Allow cookies to cool slightly until they are warm enough to handle. Roll each cookie in 1 cup (128g) of powdered sugar before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Second Sugar Coat
Once fully cooled, roll each cookie again in powdered sugar for an extra thick coating that gives them their signature snowball look.
Step 11: Store
Store your delightful Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies in an airtight container for up to one week so you can enjoy them longer!
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
These delightful Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying them at home, there are many creative ways to serve these sweet treats.
With Hot Cocoa
- Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy experience. The chocolate chips in the cookies complement the rich flavors of the cocoa perfectly.
On a Cookie Platter
- Arrange your Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies on a festive cookie platter. Mix them with other holiday treats like gingerbread and sugar cookies for a vibrant display.
As Party Favors
- Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons. These make great party favors for guests to take home after celebrations.
With Ice Cream
- Serve these cookies as an indulgent dessert by pairing them with vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The warm cookies and cold ice cream create a delightful contrast.
How to Perfect Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
To ensure your Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature butter: This helps achieve the right consistency when creaming with powdered sugar, ensuring the cookies hold their shape.
- Measure flour correctly: Use the scoop and level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can lead to dry cookies.
- Chill the dough: If you find the dough is too sticky, chill it for 30 minutes before rolling into balls. This will make handling easier and prevent spreading during baking.
- Watch baking time carefully: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be lightly golden on the bottoms, indicating they’re done but still tender.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Serving side dishes with your Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses such as brie or goat cheese that pair well with the buttery flavors of the cookies.
- Spiced Nuts: Offer a bowl of spiced nuts for a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the snowball cookies.
- Mini Muffins: Serve assorted mini muffins like blueberry or banana nut to provide variety alongside your chocolate chip treats.
- Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
- Coffee Bar: Create a coffee bar featuring different blends and toppings that complement the rich flavor of the cookies, perfect for pairing during holiday gatherings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect their taste and texture.
- Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using butter that is too soft can lead to cookies that spread too much. Aim for butter that is halfway softened; it should leave an indentation but still feel firm.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the cookie dough too much can make the cookies tough. Mix until just combined, especially after adding flour.
- Not Measuring Flour Properly: Scooping directly from the bag can compact flour and result in dry cookies. Always scoop and level your flour for accuracy.
- Skipping the Second Sugar Coat: For that classic snowball look, don’t skip rolling your cookies in powdered sugar twice. This adds to the sweetness and visual appeal.
- Using Dark Baking Sheets: Dark sheets can over-brown your cookies. Opt for light-colored baking sheets for even baking results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour first.
- Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds at medium power, checking frequently to prevent overheating.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, warming them for a couple of minutes while covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini ones?
Yes, you can use regular chocolate chips, but mini ones distribute better throughout the dough.
How do I make these Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is crumbly, try adding a teaspoon of cold water or milk gradually until it holds together better.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies remain fresh in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature or longer if refrigerated.
Can I customize my snowball cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to add different nuts or other types of chips for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are not only delicious but incredibly versatile. Their buttery texture combined with chocolatey goodness makes them a delightful treat any time of year. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite add-ins like nuts or spices!
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