Peppermint Snowball Cookies

Have you ever wondered what makes cookies so irresistible during the holiday season? The answer may lie in a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can transform your dessert table. Peppermint Snowball Cookies are the perfect embodiment of that holiday magic. These cookies are fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth treats with a refreshing burst of peppermint that will remind you of the season’s icy charm. If you’ve been searching for a festive dessert that’s easy to make and sure to impress, this recipe checks all the boxes!

Timing

Preparation time for Peppermint Snowball Cookies is straightforward, taking about 30 minutes to whip up the dough. Once you pop them in the oven, they bake for only 7 to 8 minutes. That’s a total time of around 40 minutes, considerably quicker than many other holiday recipes. In contrast to cookies that require chilling or intricate folding techniques, this recipe simplifies your holiday baking.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 130
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 50mg
Carbohydrates: 19g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 1g

This breakdown indicates that while the cookies are a treat, moderation is key. Each serving offers a sweet, creamy taste without overloading on calories or unhealthy fats.

Healthier Alternatives For Peppermint Snowball Cookies

While Peppermint Snowball Cookies are delicious as is, you can make a few adjustments for a healthier take.

Butter can be replaced with unsweetened applesauce to cut down on fat. It will change the texture slightly but will keep the cookie moist.

Powdered Sugar: Using a sugar substitute, such as stevia or erythritol, can significantly lower the calorie count.

Flour: Consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber and nutrients.

Finally, if peppermint extract isn’t your thing, vanilla extract paired with crushed almonds can create a lovely nutty flavor. These adjustments allow you to enjoy holiday cookies without the guilt.

Serving Suggestions

Peppermint Snowball Cookies are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. These cookies can stand alone on a dessert platter but consider pairing them with:

1. Hot Cocoa: The cool minty flavor of the cookies contrasts nicely with a warm, chocolaty drink.
2. Ice Cream: Crumble cookies over vanilla or peppermint ice cream for an indulgent sundae.
3. Gift Boxes: Place them in decorated mason jars or festive boxes as delicious homemade gifts for loved ones.

By presenting your cookies in these charming ways, you’re not just offering sweets, but delightful experiences.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Baking Peppermint Snowball Cookies can be straightforward, but there are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Over-mixing the Dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
2. Incorrect Baking Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to 375 degrees to prevent uneven baking.
3. Refrigerating Too Long: While the dough benefits from chilling, refrigerating for more than 1 hour may affect texture.

Being mindful of these common mistakes can help ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

Storing Tips For Peppermint Snowball Cookies

Proper storage can extend the life of your Peppermint Snowball Cookies:

Airtight Container: Store completely cooled cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 4 days.

Freezing: If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze the cookies. Simply arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Ingredients Needed

1 cup unsalted butter: Creates a rich, tender base.
2/3 cup powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and softness.
2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the cookies.
1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
1 tsp peppermint extract: Delivers that authentic peppermint flavor.
Red or pink food coloring: Provides festive colors.
3/4 cup Andes peppermint baking chips: Adds extra bursts of minty goodness.
Additional powdered sugar: For coating the cookies.

These ingredients come together to create a delightful cookie experience that encapsulates the spirit of the season.

How to Make Peppermint Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Beat Butter and Sugar

Beat butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. This incorporates air for a lighter texture.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

Mix in flour, salt, and extract just until combined. You want to avoid over-mixing at this stage.

Step 3: Color the Dough

Add food coloring a few drops at a time until you achieve your desired color. This step adds visual appeal, making your cookies festive.

Step 4: Stir in Peppermint Chips

Stir in Andes peppermint baking chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Refrigerate the dough, covered for at least 30 minutes to make scooping easier and for the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cookie removal.

Step 7: Scoop and Roll

Scoop out one tablespoon of dough at a time and form it into a ball. Place on the prepared sheet about two inches apart.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake for 7 to 8 minutes. The cookies are done when barely browned on the bottom.

Step 9: Cool and Coat

Let cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet. Then, transfer them to a second baking sheet lined with parchment paper and dust them liberally with powdered sugar.

Step 10: Final Coating

Fill a small bowl halfway with powdered sugar. Drop cookies one at a time into the bowl and turn until coated.

Conclusion

In just a few simple steps and with minimal ingredients, you can create a batch of Peppermint Snowball Cookies that are perfect for any festive occasion. With their soft texture and refreshing flavor, these cookies will undoubtedly become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate give this delightful recipe a try and invite the holiday spirit into your home. Your friends and family will thank you, and who knows, they may even ask for the recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookies in advance for a party?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before baking.

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of peppermint chips?

Yes, you can substitute regular chocolate chips. However, this will change the flavor profile, so choose what you enjoy best!

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once solidified.

Why did my cookies turn out flat?

Flat cookies could indicate that your butter was too warm or that the dough was over-mixed. Ensure the butter is softened but not melted, and mix just until the dough comes together.

Can I customize the flavor of these cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap peppermint with vanilla or almond extract, or add different mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits to suit your taste.

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