There’s something irresistibly cozy about the first bite of a Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookie. The way they crumble in your mouth, a delightful dusting of powdered sugar creating a snowy finish, conjures memories of family gatherings around the holiday table. Just last week, I found myself yearning for that comfort, reminiscing about the laughter and warmth of home-cooked celebrations.
These cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a delightful solution for anyone looking to escape the monotony of fast food. This recipe showcases the simple beauty of butter, sugar, and a hint of cinnamon, all effortlessly blended to create a delectable dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, they only take about 15 minutes in the oven, making them an easy indulgence when you need a sweet pick-me-up.
So, roll up your sleeves and join me in turning your kitchen into a haven of delicious aromas, where each batch of these snowball cookies brings a sprinkle of joy to your day. Let’s get baking!
Why will you love Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies?
Irresistible warmth: The buttery richness paired with delicate sweetness evokes a homely vibe.
Quick baking time: With just 15 minutes in the oven, you can satisfy your cravings without a lengthy wait.
Crowd-pleaser: These cookies are sure to impress friends and family, making them perfect for gatherings.
Endless versatility: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or experiment with different flavors, like chocolate or peppermint.
Easy and fun: Mixing and rolling these cookies is a delightful activity for both kids and adults alike.
These cookies are a wonderful way to escape fast food monotony and embrace the joys of homemade treats.
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Ingredients
Get ready to create a cozy treat with these delightful ingredients!
For the Dough
- Unsalted butter – a rich base that adds creaminess and depth to the cookies.
- Powdered sugar – sweetens the dough while ensuring a light and tender texture.
- Vanilla extract – a splash of warmth that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
- All-purpose flour – the foundation of the dough; ensure it’s measured correctly for perfect results.
- Ground cinnamon – brings a comforting spice that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness.
- Salt – enhances flavor, balancing the sweetness of the cookies.
- Finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor if desired.
For Rolling
- Powdered sugar – for that iconic snowy finish that makes these cookies so memorable.
- Ground cinnamon – for rolling, reinforces the warm spice flavor in every bite, making these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies truly special.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This creates the perfect environment for your cookies to bake evenly. Don’t forget to line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup!
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a spacious mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and ½ cup powdered sugar together until the mixture becomes light and creamy. Then, add in that fragrant teaspoon of vanilla extract for a warm flavor boost.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring until everything is beautifully combined.
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Fold in Nuts: If you’d like a bit of crunch, fold in ¾ cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts at this point. They’ll add a delightful texture to your cookies.
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Shape the Dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them spaced on your prepared baking sheet. Each little ball is a promise of deliciousness waiting to happen!
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Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect texture!
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Dust with Sugar: Let the cookies cool slightly before rolling them in a mix of 1 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon while they’re still warm. This will give them that snow-kissed appearance.
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Final Touch: Once completely cooled, roll the cookies again in powdered sugar for that extra snowy coating, making them irresistibly delightful.
Optional: Serve these with a warm cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate cozy moment.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful snowball cookies and customize them to your taste!
- Nut-Free: Substitute finely chopped nuts with additional flour for a nut-free version that everyone can enjoy.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-friendly treat.
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a decadent twist that adds richness and gooeyness. They melt beautifully, creating a sweet surprise in each bite.
- Mint Chocolate: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and replace some of the vanilla for a refreshing holiday flavor that dances on your palate.
- Spiced Up: Increase the ground cinnamon to 1 teaspoon for an extra comforting spice kick that warms every bite.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest into the dough for a bright, fragrant flavor that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness.
- Dried Fruit: Mix in ½ cup of dried cranberries or chopped cherries for a fruity twist and a delightful chewiness.
- Coffee Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the dough for a lovely mocha touch, pairing wonderfully with the richness of butter.
Each variation invites you to explore and enjoy the fun of baking, making every batch uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix and shape the balls, then refrigerate them in an airtight container. This not only saves you precious time but also strengthens the flavors. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and simply place the chilled dough on a baking sheet, baking them for the usual 12-15 minutes. For the best quality, remember to roll your warm cookies in the sugar-cinnamon mixture immediately after baking for that delightful snowy finish. Enjoy the ease of homemade treats without the last-minute hustle!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
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Perfectly Creamy: Beat the butter and powdered sugar thoroughly until light and fluffy, ensuring your cookies have that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Measure with Care: For the best results, level off your flour when measuring. Too much flour can lead to dense cookies, missing their delicate charm.
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Rolling Technique: Roll the cookies gently; if your hands are too warm, consider chilling the dough briefly before shaping them to maintain that perfect ball.
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Double Dusting: Don’t skip the second rolling in powdered sugar after the cookies cool—this creates that quintessential snowy appearance we all adore in Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.
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Storage Tips: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness. They also freeze beautifully for later enjoyment!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies?
Transform your cookie experience into a full-fledged cozy treat night with these delightful pairings.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy, chocolatey goodness perfectly contrasts the lightness of the cookies for a comforting warm sip.
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Spiced Chai Tea: Infused with aromatic spices, this tea complements the cinnamon in the cookies, creating a deliciously harmonious flavor pairing.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream adds a creamy coolness against the snowy texture of the cookies, making each bite irresistibly indulgent.
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Fruit Salad: Fresh, vibrant fruits provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies; try adding some tart berries for a balanced taste.
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Roasted Nuts: A small bowl of seasoned roasted nuts offers a crunchy texture that beautifully contrasts the soft, crumbly cookies.
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Coffee: A steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee enhances the overall experience, with its bittersweet notes balancing the cookies’ sweetness.
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Lemon Tart: The zesty brightness of a lemon tart acts as a delightful palate cleanser, adding a refreshing twist after indulging in cookies.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet treats bring another layer of texture and flavor that pairs wonderfully with the festive vibe of snowball cookies.
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Chocolate Fondue: Dip the cookies in rich chocolate fondue for an extravagant dessert experience that will leave everyone wanting more.
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container, and they will stay delicious for up to 3 days, maintaining their soft texture.
Fridge: For extended freshness, store the cookies in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 1 week. Allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their delightful flavor.
Reheating: To enjoy that freshly baked taste, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Perfect for a cozy treat night with your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies!
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right butter for my Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, use unsalted butter that is at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugar. Look for butter that’s fresh—no discoloration or off smells. A good quality, European-style butter will add an extra richness to your cookies.
How should I store my Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies?
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful softness. If you’d like them to last longer, you can refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 1 week. Remember to let them come to room temperature again before indulging!
Can I freeze my Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
What if my cookie dough is too dry or crumbly?
Very! If your dough feels too dry, it may be because of an excess of flour. Make sure to measure it correctly, and consider adding a tablespoon of milk to the mixture to help bind it together. If using nuts, sometimes the added dryness can come from them, so adjust the amount accordingly. Just remember, the dough should be soft but still hold its shape when rolled.
Are there any common allergies related to the ingredients in these cookies?
Definitely! Common allergens in Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies include dairy (from the butter), nuts (if you add pecans or walnuts), and gluten (from the all-purpose flour). If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, you can substitute butter with a dairy-free version and use gluten-free flour, keeping an eye on consistency as some adjustments might be needed.
Can I add different flavors or ingredients to my Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies?
Very much so! Feel free to get creative with your cookies. You can incorporate ingredients like mini chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even a hint of almond extract in place of vanilla for a unique twist. The more, the merrier, so experiment until you find your perfect combination!
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies for a Cozy Treat Night
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and ½ cup powdered sugar until light and creamy. Add in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups flour, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients.
- Fold in ¾ cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts if desired.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool slightly, then roll in 1 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon while warm.
- Once completely cooled, roll again in powdered sugar for an extra snowy coating.