Peppermint Snowball Cookies are a classic holiday treat that deliver the perfect balance of buttery richness and cool peppermint flavor. With their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and snowy powdered sugar coating, these cookies are a must-bake for Christmas gatherings, cookie exchanges, and winter parties. This recipe is incredibly simple, making it ideal for all skill levels—from beginner bakers to seasoned home chefs. Whether you're preparing a dessert tray or looking for an easy homemade gift, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Simple, beginner-friendly steps for all skill levels.
- Festive peppermint flavor perfect for holiday celebrations.
- Uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients.
- Great for cookie exchanges and gifting.
About the Ingredients
Unsalted Butter
Creates a rich, tender base. Softened butter mixes smoothly and gives the cookies their delicate, crumbly texture.
Confectioners’ Sugar
Used in the dough and for the snowy coating. Blends easily into the butter, creating a smooth cookie without any graininess.
Vanilla Extract
Adds warmth and depth that complements the peppermint flavor.
Peppermint Extract
The key flavor of the recipe, giving the cookies their festive minty taste. A small amount is enough, so avoid overusing it.
All-Purpose Flour
Provides structure and helps create the classic melt-in-your-mouth texture. Spoon and level for accuracy.
Salt
A pinch enhances flavor and keeps the sweetness balanced.
Crushed Candy Canes
Add crunch, color, and peppermint bursts in every bite. Finely crushed pieces blend more evenly into the dough.
Tips & Tricks
Chill the Dough
Always chill the dough; cold dough prevents spreading and keeps the cookies round.
Crush Candy Canes Finely
Crush candy canes finely so they don’t melt and create holes in the cookies.
Roll in Sugar While Warm
Roll cookies in sugar while warm—this helps the coating stick.
Pro Tips
- For an extra snowy look, roll them twice: once warm, once cooled.
- Use a small cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies.
- If your dough feels too dry, mix in 1–2 teaspoons of milk to help it come together.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cream the Butter
Cream softened butter in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. This step ensures a tender cookie texture.
Incorporate Sugar
Add 3/4 cup confectioners' sugar and beat until fluffy. The sugar helps to aerate the mixture, contributing to the lightness of the cookies.
Add Flavor Extracts
Blend in vanilla extract and peppermint extract. These will infuse the dough with their aromatic flavors.
Mix Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in flour and salt on low speed until a dough forms. This prevents overworking the dough, which could lead to tough cookies.
Fold in Candy Canes
Gently fold in finely crushed candy canes to evenly distribute the peppermint flavor and add festive color.
Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Prepare for Baking
Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup.
Shape the Cookies
Roll tablespoon portions of dough into balls and place 2 inches apart on the baking sheets.
Bake the Cookies
Bake for 15 minutes, until bottoms are lightly golden and tops remain pale. This indicates they are perfectly baked.
First Sugar Coating
Cool for 5 minutes, then roll warm cookies in powdered sugar. This initial coating helps the sugar adhere to the cookies.
Final Sugar Coating
Cool completely on a wire rack, then roll again in powdered sugar before serving for an extra snowy appearance.
Delicious Variations
Peppermint-Mocha Twist
Add mini chocolate chips for a delightful combination of chocolate and peppermint flavors.
Chocolate-Dipped
Dip half of each cooled cookie into melted chocolate for a bakery-style finish that impresses.
Almond Delight
Replace peppermint extract with almond extract for a nutty alternative that offers a different flavor profile.
How to Store Peppermint Snowball Cookies
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
Freezer
Freeze uncoated cookies for up to 2 months; thaw completely and roll in powdered sugar before serving.
Room Temperature
Keep cookies in a cool, dry place for up to 5 days, ensuring they are in an airtight container to prevent staleness.
Reheating
Warm cookies slightly in a low oven to refresh them before serving if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar?
Not for this recipe. Powdered sugar creates the melt-in-your-mouth texture that snowball cookies are known for.
Why did my cookies spread?
This usually happens when the dough isn’t chilled long enough. Always chill for at least 30 minutes.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. Chill it for up to 48 hours or freeze the dough balls and bake directly from frozen.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—this recipe scales very well, making it great for big holiday batches.
What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
You can substitute it with a similar mint extract or omit it for a more vanilla-flavored cookie.