Peppermint Snowball Cookies
Step-by-step instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to get baking! Follow these easy, step-by-step directions to whip up your Peppermint Snowball Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and combine well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the finely crushed peppermint candies so they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, roll each cookie in powdered sugar.
- Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. For the final touch, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again for that classic snowball effect.
Best ways to enjoy it
When the baking’s done, it’s time to enjoy these delectable cookies! They’re delightful on their own but can also be served alongside a warm cup of hot chocolate or peppermint tea. Consider presenting them at your holiday parties, plated with festive decorations like sprigs of holly or a sprinkling of red and green candies. For an extra treat, pair them with vanilla ice cream for a wonderful dessert experience!
How to store
To keep your Peppermint Snowball Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, maintaining their buttery texture and flavor. If you want to save them for a longer period, they freeze wonderfully. Just place them in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.
Helpful cooking tips
Baking is a joyful yet sometimes tricky process. Here are a few tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly:
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming.
- Avoid overmixing the dough once you add in the dry ingredients; it helps in keeping the cookies tender.
- Use a cookie scoop to keep the size of your balls consistent for even baking.
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to put your personal spin on these Peppermint Snowball Cookies! Consider swapping out the peppermint for finely crushed nuts like walnuts or pecans for a nutty flavor. You could also experiment with different types of chocolate chips or colored sprinkles for a fun twist on the classic recipe. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour in place of all-purpose flour.
Common questions
How long will it take to prepare?
The total time for preparation and baking is approximately 30 minutes, making these cookies perfect for a quick holiday treat.
Can I substitute the peppermint candies?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of peppermint, feel free to substitute with crushed chocolate candies or any other favorite flavor.
What’s the best way to freeze these cookies?
To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transferred to a freezer-safe container to prevent sticking.
With Peppermint Snowball Cookies, you’re not just baking cookies; you’re creating memories filled with flavor and delight that will echo through the holiday season. Enjoy baking, sharing, and tasting these scrumptious treats!
