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Peppermint Snowball Cookies Recipe

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4.7 from 68 reviews

These Peppermint Snowball Cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats flavored with refreshing peppermint and vanilla extracts. Rolled in powdered sugar, these festive cookies are perfect for holiday celebrations or anytime you crave a sweet, snowy indulgence.

Ingredients

Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp peppermint extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
  • ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper, preparing them to bake the cookies evenly.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the room temperature unsalted butter and 1 cup powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, giving the cookies a delicate texture.
  3. Add Extracts: Mix in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract until everything is well combined, infusing the dough with a delightful mint flavor.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour and the optional chopped nuts. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
  5. Form Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheets to allow room for gentle spreading during baking.
  6. Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft, ensuring a tender bite.
  7. Cool and Coat: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. While still warm, gently roll them in powdered sugar to create the signature snowball coating, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For extra flavor and crunch, use toasted nuts such as pecans or walnuts.
  • You can omit nuts for a nut-free version suitable for those with allergies.
  • Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming and a smoother dough.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
  • Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while warm helps the sugar stick better.
  • Use peppermint extract sparingly as it can be quite strong; adjusting to taste is recommended.