The first snowflakes of winter sent me on a delightful quest to create something not just delicious but festively fun. Enter snowman cookies—adorable little treats that are perfect for baking sessions with family or whipping up for holiday gatherings. The moment you pull these soft, chewy cookies out of the oven, the rich aroma of vanilla and cream cheese fills the air, instantly making your kitchen feel like a winter wonderland. What makes these cookies stand out is their whimsical decoration—pipings of luscious buttercream frosting, a sprinkle of colorful bits, and even little carrot noses that will surely warm hearts alike. Whether you’re planning a holiday party or seeking a joyful activity with kids, these snowman cookies are an enchanting centerpiece for sweet holiday memories. Let’s dive into creating these charming delights that are as fun to make as they are to eat!
Why are Snowman Cookies a Must-Try?
Festive Fun: These Snowman Cookies bring holiday cheer to any gathering with their cute design and playful spirit, making them a hit among kids and adults alike.
Kid-Friendly: Perfect for family baking sessions, this recipe is ideal for little hands eager to help create and decorate their own snowmen.
Soft and Chewy: Thanks to the cream cheese, each cookie is soft and melts in your mouth, offering a delightful texture that’s hard to resist.
Quick to Make: With simple instructions and minimal chilling time, you can whip up a batch in no time, allowing more moments for holiday joy.
Customizable Decor: Feel free to get creative with your icing and toppings, turning each cookie into a unique masterpiece—embracing your festive spirit!
Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are ideal for cookie exchanges and holiday parties, making them a great way to spread cheer and deliciousness.
Don’t forget to check out our tips for perfectly frosted cookies to elevate your snowman game!
Snowman Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter (3/4 cup, 170g) – Provides moisture and richness; you can substitute with margarine if needed.
• Full Fat Cream Cheese (1/2 cup, 113g) – Adds creaminess and contributes to the soft texture; Neufchâtel cheese can be a lighter alternative.
• Granulated Sugar (1 1/2 cups, 300g) – For sweetness and structure; replace with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• Large Egg (1, 56g) – Binds the dough; a flax egg works well for vegan versions.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp, 8g) – Enhances flavor; vanilla bean paste could add more intensity.
• All-Purpose Flour (3 cups, 375g) – The main structure of the cookie; use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free needs.
• Cornstarch (1 Tbsp, 8g) – Creates a softer cookie texture; no substitutes necessary.
• Baking Powder (1/2 tsp, 2g) – Leavens the cookies; baking soda can also be used but might alter the texture slightly.
• Fine Salt (1/2 tsp, 3g) – Balances the sweetness; no substitutes.
For the Buttercream Frosting
• Powdered Sugar (3 1/2 cups, 454g) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; can swap with a sugar-free powdered sugar alternative.
• Heavy Whipping Cream (1/4 cup, 60g) – Adds creaminess; full-fat milk is a lighter option.
• Orange Gel Food Coloring – For those delightful carrot noses; you can omit it if you’re not specifically decorating for snowmen.
For Decoration
• Coarse Sanding Sugar (1 cup) – Decorative and adds a lovely crunch; white granulated sugar can work in a pinch.
• Round Black Sprinkles – They make perfect eyes and mouths; if unavailable, mini chocolate chips can substitute nicely.
Get ready to create the most adorable snowman cookies that not only taste great but look fantastic as well!
How to Make Snowman Cookies
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Prepare the Dough: Cream the unsalted butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Then add granulated sugar, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy in color. Follow this by mixing in the egg and vanilla extract for that delicious flavor.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and fine salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, forming a soft dough.
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Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and chill for 2 hours in the refrigerator or for 30 minutes in the freezer. This step helps the cookies hold their shape when baked.
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Roll and Cut: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the dough on a floured surface to about 1/3 inch thick, then cut out 2.5-inch rounds. Place the cut cookies on the prepared sheets and chill them again for 15 minutes to help avoid spreading during baking.
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Bake the Cookies: Bake the chilled cookies for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are set, ensuring they remain soft within. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
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Make the Buttercream Frosting: While the cookies cool, beat butter until creamy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and heavy whipping cream until the frosting is smooth. If desired, tint a portion of the frosting with orange gel food coloring to create the carrot noses.
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Decorate the Cookies: Frost the cooled cookies generously with the buttercream, then press them into the coarse sanding sugar for a sparkly finish. Use round black sprinkles to add delightful eyes, mouths, and other facial features.
Optional: Add a dash of holiday cheer by sprinkling edible glitter on your decorated cookies!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Snowman Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful snowman cookies in so many fun ways!
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends without compromising taste or texture.
- Vegan: Swap the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based cream cheese and butter for a vegan-friendly version that everyone can enjoy!
- Peppermint Twist: Add peppermint extract to the frosting for a holiday twist that will refresh your palate with each delightful bite.
- Chocolate Delight: Incorporate cocoa powder into the dough for a rich chocolate flavor; you’ll love the combination of creamy frosting with chocolate cookies.
- Nutty Texture: Fold in finely chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds into the dough for added crunch and flavor; they’ll surprise and delight!
- Fruit Zing: Shred some orange or lemon zest into the dough for a burst of citrus freshness that plays beautifully against the sweetness.
- Colorful Fun: Use various colors of gel food coloring for the frosting to create a colorful array of snowmen that will brighten any holiday table.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the dough to give your cookies a subtle warmth that complements the festive season beautifully.
With these variations, you can add personal touches that will make your snowman cookies a unique and heartwarming addition to your holiday celebrations!
Storage Tips for Snowman Cookies
- Room Temperature: Store frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and fresh for holiday munching.
- Fridge: If you need a little extra time, place your cookies in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped, as cold air can sometimes dry them out.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your snowman cookies for up to 1 month. To prevent sticking, separate layers with parchment paper before placing them in an airtight container.
- Reheating: If desired, thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Enjoy them as is or warm them gently in the microwave for that fresh-baked taste!
Expert Tips for Snowman Cookies
- Creaming Properly: Ensure you cream the butter and cream cheese until fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the light and soft texture of your snowman cookies.
- Don’t Overwork Dough: Handle the cookie dough gently; overworking may make the cookies tough. Keep a light hand for perfect softness.
- Chill, Chill, Chill: Don’t skip chilling the dough both before and after cutting. This prevents spreading and helps maintain your snowman shapes beautifully.
- Watch Baking Times: Pay close attention to the baking time; cookies should come out when edges are lightly golden to preserve that chewy center.
- Creative Decorating: Get playful with your decorations! Try different color combinations or edible glitters to personalize each snowman cookie uniquely.
What to Serve with Snowman Cookies?
The holiday season calls for delightful accompaniments that enhance the joy of these adorable treats, making your festive gatherings even more special.
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Hot Cocoa: The rich warmth of a classic hot cocoa pairs perfectly with the sweet, creamy layers of the cookies, bringing comfort to chilly nights. Imagine wrapping your hands around a steaming mug while munching on the soft, chewy cookies by the fireplace. Pure bliss!
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Milk: A timeless companion for cookies, a cold glass of milk balances the sweetness and complements the cream cheese frosting beautifully. This pairing is kid-approved and brings back those cherished childhood memories of cookie and milk indulgence.
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Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a bright, refreshing touch to your cookie spread, cutting through the richness of the cookies. The vibrant colors and juicy bites make an inviting contrast, delighting both the eyes and palate.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm, spiced apple cider alongside your cookies for a seasonal twist. The warm spices resonate with the festive flavors of the cookies, enhancing the cozy atmosphere of holiday festivities.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Keep the theme going with additional holiday treats! Gingerbread cookies offer a contrasting spice that harmonizes well with the sweetness of snowman cookies, creating a fun and festive cookie platter for sharing.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a delightful dessert duo, serve snowman cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream provides a delicious contrast to the warm cookies, transforming each bite into a sweet celebration.
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Holiday Punch: A sparkling holiday punch, whether fruity or spiced, brings a festive spirit that pairs wonderfully with the cookies. This drink adds an element of fun to your gatherings and keeps everyone refreshed amidst the holiday cheer.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Snowman Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their holiday baking! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For an even quicker option, you can freeze the wrapped dough for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight. Additionally, you can make the buttercream frosting ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days—just give it a quick stir before decorating. This way, you can enjoy all the festive fun of decorating and sharing your lovely snowman cookies with minimal stress!
Snowman Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of cookies should I use for the snowman shape?
For the best results, use a soft, chewy cookie base like the Snowman Cookies in this recipe. The cream cheese in the dough helps maintain their shape while providing a delightful texture perfect for decorating.
How do I store snowman cookies once they are decorated?
Store your frosted snowman cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them fresher longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days; just make sure they’re well-sealed to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze snowman cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze your snowman cookies for up to 1 month. Just make sure to wrap them individually or separate the layers with parchment paper before placing them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find that your cookies spread too much, it could be due to warm dough. Make sure to chill your dough thoroughly before rolling and cutting, and also chill the cut-out cookies for about 15 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape better during the baking process.
Are these snowman cookies safe for kids to eat?
Yes! These snowman cookies are kid-friendly and perfect for family baking sessions. Just ensure to note any allergies to food colorings or specific ingredients in the frosting and sprinkles, especially if you’re sharing with others.
How can I achieve a softer cookie texture with my snowman cookies?
For soft and chewy cookies, avoid overworking the dough once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Additionally, chilling the dough helps create softer cookies rather than tough ones. Ensure to bake them just until the edges are lightly golden for that perfect chewy center!
Frosty Snowman Cookies Perfect for Holiday Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream the unsalted butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Then add granulated sugar, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy in color. Follow this by mixing in the egg and vanilla extract for that delicious flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and fine salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, forming a soft dough.
- Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and chill for 2 hours in the refrigerator or for 30 minutes in the freezer.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the dough on a floured surface to about 1/3 inch thick, then cut out 2.5-inch rounds. Place the cut cookies on the prepared sheets and chill them again for 15 minutes.
- Bake the chilled cookies for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are set. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- While the cookies cool, beat butter until creamy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and heavy whipping cream until the frosting is smooth.
- Frost the cooled cookies generously with the buttercream, then press them into the coarse sanding sugar for a sparkly finish. Use round black sprinkles to add delightful eyes, mouths, and other facial features.