Double Chocolate Snowball Cookies – Easy Festive Treat Recipe

Double Chocolate Snowball Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat, combining rich cocoa flavors with a dusting of powdered sugar that resembles fresh snow. These bite-sized delights are perfect for gifting, entertaining, or indulging in yourself. With a soft, buttery texture and bursts of chocolate in every bite, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Coating:

• ½ cup powdered sugar

Instructions

1: Prepare the Dough

1. Combine the flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a medium bowl, then set it aside.
2. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract until well incorporated.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in the mini chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate for extra bursts of chocolate flavor.

2: Chill the Dough

1. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes until it becomes firm and easy to handle.

3: Shape and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
2. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them on the baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each cookie.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes, ensuring the cookies are set but not browned.
4. Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then move them to a wire rack to cool fully.

4: Coat the Cookies

1. Once the cookies have cooled completely, roll them in powdered sugar until fully coated.
2. For a festive, snowy appearance, roll the cookies in powdered sugar a second time just before serving.

Helpful Tips

Measure Ingredients Accurately

For the best results, measure all ingredients precisely. Sift the flour and powdered sugar to avoid lumps in the dough and ensure a smooth texture.

Use Softened Butter

Ensure the butter is at room temperature and softened before mixing. Softened butter blends better with sugar, creating a light and fluffy base for the cookies.

Chill the Dough

Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes makes it easier to handle and prevents the cookies from spreading during baking. If the dough feels sticky, extend the chilling time slightly.

Roll Cookies Evenly

Roll the dough into uniformly sized balls to ensure even baking.A small cookie scoop helps ensure the cookies are evenly sized.

Avoid Overbaking

Take the cookies out of the oven once they are set but still pale, without browning. Overbaking can make the cookies too dry and compromise their delicate texture.

Double-Coat for a Festive Look

To achieve the perfect snowy appearance, roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice. The first coat sticks better when the cookies are warm, while the second coat enhances their festive look just before serving.

Variations

Add Nuts for Crunch

Enhance the texture by mixing in finely chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds. These add a satisfying crunch and complement the chocolate flavor beautifully.

Swap the Chocolate

Try using various types of chocolate to create a distinctive flavor. Use white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks to customize the richness and sweetness of the cookies.

Incorporate Spices

Add a warm and cozy element by mixing in a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom. These spices enhance the holiday feel and pair wonderfully with the cocoa.

Try Different Extracts

While vanilla extract is classic, you can replace it with almond or peppermint extract. Almond adds a subtle nutty flavor, while peppermint creates a refreshing, festive vibe.

Add a Touch of Color

For a more vibrant look, mix in colorful sprinkles or edible glitter with the powdered sugar coating. This variation is perfect for festive occasions or themed celebrations.

Make a White Chocolate Version

Skip the cocoa powder and use extra flour to maintain the dough’s consistency. Replace the mini chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a lighter variation.

These creative variations allow you to adapt the recipe to your taste preferences, making Double Chocolate Snowball Cookies versatile and exciting for any occasion.

Conservation and Storage

Storing at Room Temperature

Let the cookies cool entirely after baking before placing them in storage. Store the cookies in an airtight container, with parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. Stored this way, the cookies remain fresh and flavorful for up to one week. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to maintain their delicate texture and powdered sugar coating.

Refrigeration Option

If you prefer to keep the cookies longer, you can refrigerate them. Store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 10 days. Chilled cookies retain their freshness while keeping their texture intact.Let the cookies reach room temperature before serving to enhance their flavor.

Freezing for Longer Storage

To freeze the cookies, ensure they are completely cooled first.Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until they are firm. After freezing, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for storage. To maintain the best quality, keep the cookies frozen for up to three months. When it’s time to serve, let them thaw at room temperature and coat them in powdered sugar again to restore their fresh, snowy look.

Avoid Moisture Exposure

To preserve their texture, store these cookies in a cool, dry place away from humidity. Moisture can cause the powdered sugar coating to dissolve, impacting their signature look and taste.

With these conservation and storage tips, Double Chocolate Snowball Cookies can be enjoyed long after baking while maintaining their festive charm and delightful flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for Festive Platters

Double Chocolate Snowball Cookies shine on dessert platters during holiday gatherings. Arrange them alongside other festive treats like gingerbread cookies, fudge, and shortbread for a visually appealing and delicious spread.

Pair with Warm Beverages

These cookies pair wonderfully with hot cocoa, coffee, or tea. The rich, chocolatey flavor complements the warmth of the drinks, creating a cozy and comforting treat for chilly days.

Ideal for Gifting

Pack these cookies in decorative tins or gift boxes lined with parchment paper for a thoughtful homemade gift. Add a festive ribbon or a handwritten note to make the presentation even more special.

Serve as a Party Snack

Place the cookies on a tray at parties or gatherings for an easy, bite-sized snack. Their delicate texture and powdered sugar coating make them irresistible to guests of all ages.

Make It a Dessert Highlight

Pair these cookies with vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Serve a few cookies alongside a scoop of ice cream, and drizzle with chocolate sauce for an extra decadent treat.

Elevate Special Occasions

Use these cookies to complement other desserts at weddings, baby showers, or birthdays. Their elegant appearance and delightful flavor make them a versatile addition to any event.

Print

Frequently Asked Questions

Can salted butter be used as a substitute for unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors. Start by omitting the salt entirely and adjust to taste if needed.

What’s the best way to keep the powdered sugar coating intact?

To ensure the powdered sugar stays in place, roll the cookies in sugar while they are still slightly warm. For a thicker coating, roll them a second time once they have cooled completely, just before serving.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough soften slightly at room temperature for easier handling.

How should I store these cookies?

Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 10 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I make these cookies without cocoa powder?

Yes, you can omit the cocoa powder for a classic snowball cookie. Replace the cocoa powder with an equal amount of flour to maintain the dough’s consistency.

Can I add other flavors?

Yes, try adding almond or peppermint extract for a twist. You can also mix in finely chopped nuts or white chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Double Chocolate Snowball Cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table, offering rich cocoa flavors paired with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Their powdered sugar coating not only adds sweetness but also gives them a festive, snowy appearance, making them perfect for holidays, special occasions, or everyday indulgence.

This versatile recipe can be easily customized to suit your preferences by adding nuts, experimenting with different chocolates, or incorporating unique flavors like peppermint or almond. The simple ingredients and straightforward process make these cookies a favorite for both novice and experienced bakers.

Whether served at gatherings, gifted to loved ones, or enjoyed with a warm cup of coffee, these cookies are always a crowd-pleaser. By following proper storage tips, you can ensure they stay fresh and delicious for days. Try this recipe and let these sweet, chocolatey treats become a cherished part of your baking traditions!