You know those moments when you bite into a cookie and instantly feel like it’s Christmas morning? That’s exactly what happens with these minty snowball cookies. I first discovered this recipe when my aunt brought them to our family holiday party – they disappeared faster than the presents got unwrapped! The cool peppermint twist on classic snowball cookies makes them irresistible. What I love most is how simple they are to whip up – just a handful of ingredients and you’ve got these little snowy mounds of joy. The mint isn’t overpowering, just this refreshing hint that perfectly balances the buttery sweetness. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be making batches all season long!
Why You’ll Love These Minty Snowball Cookies
Oh, where do I even start? These minty snowball cookies are my secret weapon for every holiday gathering – and I’m sharing all the reasons they’ll become yours too:
- Effortless magic: Just mix, roll, bake – no fancy techniques needed!
- Holiday cheer in every bite: That peppermint-kissed flavor instantly feels festive.
- Always a crowd-pleaser: Kids adore the snowy look, adults go wild for the sophisticated mint twist.
- Perfect make-ahead treat: They actually taste better after a day (if they last that long).
Seriously, one tray of these minty wonders, and you’ll be the cookie hero of every party.
Ingredients for Minty Snowball Cookies
Okay, let’s talk ingredients – because using the right stuff makes ALL the difference with these minty snowball cookies. First up: real butter, softened (I leave mine out for about 30 minutes – you want it cool but spreadable). Don’t even think about margarine – trust me, Grandma would haunt me if I suggested that! The powdered sugar should be packed lightly into your measuring cup – none of that fluffy scooping business.
Now, the star: quality peppermint extract. That cheap stuff from the dollar store? It tastes like toothpaste. Spend the extra couple bucks on the good extract – I promise you’ll taste the difference. And those peppermint candies? Crush them until they’re practically dust (I use a rolling pin between parchment paper when I’m feeling particularly aggressive). Tiny pieces mean minty goodness in every bite!
Essential Equipment for Minty Snowball Cookies
You won’t need anything fancy for these minty snowballs – just the basics from your kitchen! My must-haves: a sturdy mixing bowl, electric mixer (though strong arms work too), baking sheets, and parchment paper. Oh, and don’t forget a rolling pin for crushing those peppermints – therapeutic AND practical!
How to Make Minty Snowball Cookies
Alright, let’s get baking! These minty snowball cookies come together so easily, but I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve to make them absolutely perfect every time. Follow these steps and you’ll have a batch of snowy, minty delights that’ll make your whole house smell like holiday magic.
Mixing the Dough
First things first – preheat that oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, let’s make magic happen in the mixing bowl! Cream together the butter and powdered sugar until it’s light and fluffy – about 2 minutes with a mixer. This is where the magic starts! Add the peppermint extract (careful, it’s strong!) and mix just until combined.
Now, slowly add the flour and salt. I do this in three additions, mixing just until the flour disappears each time. Here’s my golden rule: stop mixing the second the dough comes together. Overmixing makes tough cookies, and we want these babies tender!
Shaping and Baking
Time to get your hands dirty! Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms into a smooth 1-inch ball. Pro tip: if your hands get sticky, dust them lightly with powdered sugar. Space the balls about 2 inches apart on your parchment-lined baking sheets – they won’t spread much, but they need breathing room.
Bake for 12-15 minutes until they’re just set. You’ll know they’re done when they lose that shiny look and develop tiny s – but don’t let them brown! That first whiff of minty butter when you open the oven? Pure heaven.
The Powdered Sugar Coating
Here’s where the “snowball” magic happens! Let the cookies cool for exactly 5 minutes – still warm but not hot. Gently roll them in powdered sugar (I use a shallow bowl for this). This first coat will soak in a bit – that’s normal!
After they’ve cooled completely (about 30 minutes), give them a second roll in powdered sugar. This creates that gorgeous snowy finish that makes everyone go “ooh!” when they see them. The double coating is my grandma’s secret – it gives that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love.
Expert Tips for Perfect Minty Snowball Cookies
After making these minty snowball cookies more times than I can count (my neighbors keep requesting them!), I’ve picked up some foolproof tricks:
- Crush those candies like you mean it! I pulse mine in a food processor until they’re almost powder – big chunks make rolling difficult.
- Dough too sticky? Pop it in the fridge for 15 minutes – cold hands make perfect round balls.
- Mint too strong? Start with 1/2 teaspoon extract and add more to taste. Remember – you can always add, but you can’t take away!
Bonus tip: Wear an apron when rolling in powdered sugar – it gets everywhere, but oh, it’s so worth it!
Common Questions About Minty Snowball Cookies
I get asked about these minty snowball cookies ALL the time – so let’s tackle the most common questions I hear:
“Can I use mint extract instead of peppermint?” Absolutely! Peppermint has that classic candy cane flavor, while mint extract is milder. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste.
“How long do they stay fresh?” In an airtight container, they’ll keep their magic for about a week – if they last that long! The powdered sugar might need a light refresh before serving.
“Can I freeze them?” Oh yes! Freeze them before the final sugar coating. When you’re ready, thaw overnight, then give them that snowy roll. Perfect for getting ahead during the busy holidays!
“Why do mine turn out flat?” Usually means your butter was too soft or you overmixed. Chill the dough for 15 minutes next time – problem solved!
Serving and Storing Minty Snowball Cookies
These minty snowball cookies are absolute perfection served at room temperature with a steaming cup of coffee or rich hot cocoa – the mint just sings alongside warm drinks! For storage, tuck them into an airtight container where they’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week (good luck making them last that long). Want to get ahead? They freeze beautifully – just hold off on that final powdered sugar coating until you’re ready to serve. A quick roll in sugar after thawing, and they taste like you just baked them!
Nutritional Information
Just so you know, these nutrition facts are estimates – your exact amounts might vary depending on brands and how generous you are with that powdered sugar coating! Each minty snowball cookie comes in at about 90 calories, with 5g fat (3g saturated) and 5g sugar. Not bad for such a festive little treat!
Now go make some magic – and don’t forget to rate this recipe below and share photos of your minty snowball cookie creations!
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3 Secrets to Irresistible Minty Snowball Cookies Recipe Tips
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 36 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy these minty snowball cookies with a refreshing twist. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup finely crushed peppermint candies
- Additional powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until creamy.
- Add peppermint extract and mix well.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until dough forms.
- Fold in crushed peppermint candies.
- Shape dough into 1-inch balls and place on baking sheets.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until cookies are set but not browned.
- Cool slightly, then roll in powdered sugar.
- Cool completely and roll again in powdered sugar.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
- For extra mint flavor, add a few drops of green food coloring to the dough.
- Crush peppermint candies finely for even distribution.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: minty snowball cookies, holiday cookies, peppermint cookies, easy dessert