Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe

If you are craving a melt-in-your-mouth treat that captures the warmth of cozy moments and the joy of holiday baking, these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are exactly what you need. Tender, buttery, and perfectly spiced with cinnamon, they roll in powdered sugar to look just like delicate little snowballs. Each bite offers a delightful crunch from optional nuts, balanced by a mild sweetness and a spicy hint that lingers lovingly on your palate. Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced cookie lover, Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies bring an irresistible charm to any occasion or simple snack time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet wonderful, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies. From the creamy butter that ensures a tender crumb to the cinnamon that adds a cozy spice, every element is essential to achieving that signature flavor and texture.

• Unsalted butter: Use softened butter for a smooth, creamy base that makes the cookies tender and rich.
• Powdered sugar: Moch powder sugar mixes seamlessly into the dough, creating a delicate sweetness and a velvety texture.
• Vanilla extract: Adds subtle warmth and depth of flavor that enhances the cinnamon’s fragrant notes.
• All-purpose flour: The fundamental building block that gives structure to our cookies.
• Finely chopped nuts (optional): Include these for a lovely crunch and extra dimension in every bite.
• Ground cinnamon: Infuses the cookies with that beloved spicy aroma and taste that make them so memorable.
• Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness and highlights all the flavors.
• Extra cinnamon and powdered sugar: For rolling, this combination creates the iconic snowy coating.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, start by creaming the softened butter together with the powdered sugar until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the dough for a soft, tender texture. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until everything is smooth and beautifully combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients separately ensures the cinnamon and salt distribute evenly through the dough, guaranteeing every cookie bursts with flavor.

Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, folding them together gently until just combined. Overmixing can make your cookies tough, so a light hand here keeps them soft and tender.

Step 4: Add Nuts (Optional)

If you love a bit of texture and nuttiness, fold in your choice of finely chopped nuts now. Walnuts or pecans work beautifully, adding a toasty crunch that complements the cinnamon flavor.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out dough balls roughly 1 inch in diameter, gently rolling them between your palms for smooth, round shapes. Place them about an inch apart on the sheet to allow spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until you notice golden brown bottoms forming—this is when they’re perfectly baked but still tender inside.

Step 6: Coat and Cool

Right after removing the cookies from the oven, while they are still warm, roll them in a mixture of extra powdered sugar and cinnamon. This coating not only looks enchanting but also adds that signature sweetness with a hint of spice, capturing the magic of Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Garnishes

To make your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies look even more inviting, consider lightly dusting them with an additional pinch of cinnamon-sugar just before serving. This little extra touch enhances the visual appeal and refreshes their cozy flavor.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee, a frothy latte, or the classic choice—hot chocolate. Their gentle sweetness balances well with warm beverages, making them a perfect companion for breakfast or afternoon tea.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, arrange the cookies on a platter lined with pine branches or holiday ribbons during winter gatherings. You can also place them in a clear jar or a cute tin wrapped with a bow as delightful gifts. Serving alongside fresh fruit preserves or a mild cream cheese spread creates a lovely contrast that guests will remember.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies fresh and delicious by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay moist and tender for up to a week, making them perfect for baking in advance and enjoying throughout the week.

Freezing

To save your cookies for later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. This method prevents sticking and keeps them fresh for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

If you prefer to enjoy your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies slightly warm, briefly heat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. This refreshes their buttery softness and brings out the cinnamon aroma beautifully without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I make Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies without nuts?

Absolutely! The nuts are optional and can be omitted if you prefer a nut-free version or have allergies. The cookies will still be deliciously tender and flavorful without them.

What type of nuts work best in these cookies?

Walnuts and pecans pair wonderfully since they have a mild, buttery flavor that complements the cinnamon and sugar. You can also experiment with almonds or hazelnuts for different nutty notes.

How do I prevent my snowball cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure to chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking, and roll them into firm balls. Using room temperature butter—not melted—also helps keep the cookies from spreading too thin.

Can I use a different spice instead of cinnamon?

While cinnamon is classic and essential to these snowball cookies, you can experiment with nutmeg or a blend of warm spices if you want a unique twist. Just keep in mind that cinnamon is what gives these cookies their iconic flavor.

Why do the cookies need to be rolled in powdered sugar and cinnamon while warm?

Rolling them warm helps the powdered sugar and cinnamon stick perfectly to the surface, creating a beautiful, delicate coating that resembles fresh snowballs and provides that signature sweet-spicy finish.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies that makes them a beloved classic. From their tender crumb and warm cinnamon aroma to the sugary coating that resembles little bites of snowfall, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your kitchen and smiles to those you share them with. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience firsthand why these cookies hold such a cherished place in so many hearts.

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