Chocolate Snowball Cookies

Chocolate Snowball Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic snowball cookie, combining rich cocoa flavor with a tender, buttery texture and a hint of nuttiness. These cookies are perfect for chocolate lovers who want a festive treat that melts in your mouth, dusted lightly with powdered sugar for that snowy effect. With the addition of mini chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate, each bite offers bursts of melty chocolate alongside a crisp, crumbly base. The optional chopped walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch, making these cookies even more satisfying.

This recipe is straightforward and versatile, perfect for holiday baking or any time you want a special chocolatey treat. Using simple ingredients like flour, cocoa powder, butter, and sugar, you can whip up a batch in no time. For those with nut allergies, there’s an easy swap to make a nut-free version by turning these into Chocolate Brownie Cookies, ensuring everyone can enjoy them. Whether you’re baking for a party, gift-giving, or a cozy afternoon snack, Chocolate Snowball Cookies are sure to impress and disappear quickly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich chocolate flavor in a classic snowball cookie format

Perfectly balanced cocoa and buttery taste.

Tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture

Soft yet crumbly, with a delicate finish.

Easy to make with simple ingredients

No complicated steps or hard-to-find items.

Versatile with nut or nut-free options

Adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences.

Great for gifting or holiday baking

Beautifully festive and deliciously indulgent.

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Ingredients

White, spelt, or oat flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Finely chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Butter or coconut oil
Powdered sugar
Mini chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate
Additional powdered sugar (optional, for rolling)

Variations

• For a nut-free version, omit the nuts and increase chocolate chips to maintain texture and flavor.
• Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free alternative.
• Roll cookies in cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar for a spicy twist.
• Add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Substitute mini chocolate chips with white chocolate or peanut butter chips for different taste profiles.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and cocoa powder until well combined.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter or coconut oil with powdered sugar until creamy.

Step 4

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until a dough forms.

Step 5

Fold in chopped nuts and mini chocolate chips.

Step 6

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cookies are set but not hard.

Step 8

Allow cookies to cool slightly, then roll in additional powdered sugar if desired for a classic snowball finish.

Step 9

Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use room temperature butter or coconut oil for easy mixing.
• Don’t overbake; cookies should be soft when removed and firm up as they cool.
• If the dough is too crumbly, add a teaspoon of milk or water to bring it together.
• Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
• For extra festive flair, sprinkle a bit of cocoa powder with powdered sugar when rolling.

How to Serve

Serve these cookies with a glass of cold milk, hot coffee, or tea. They also make excellent treats for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or as thoughtful gifts packaged in decorative tins.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They maintain their soft texture best when stored properly.

Freezing

You can freeze baked cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if desired, warm them briefly in the oven for a few minutes to refresh softness.

FAQs

Can I substitute all-purpose flour for the flour listed?

Yes, all-purpose flour can be used but may alter the texture slightly.

What if I don’t have cocoa powder?

Cocoa powder is essential for the chocolate flavor, but for a non-chocolate version, try the classic snowball recipe without cocoa.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce or omit any additional salt in the recipe.

How do I make these nut-free?

Simply omit nuts and increase chocolate chips or add extra texture with oats.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of mini chips?

Absolutely, finely chopped dark chocolate works perfectly.

How long will the cookies stay fresh?

Stored properly, they stay fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.

Are these cookies vegan?

Replace butter with coconut oil and use vegan chocolate chips to make vegan-friendly.

What is the purpose of rolling in powdered sugar?

It adds a sweet finishing touch and gives the cookies their signature snowball appearance.

Can I add other flavors?

Yes, try adding a pinch of cinnamon, orange zest, or espresso powder for variations.

Conclusion

Chocolate Snowball Cookies are a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth treat perfect for chocolate lovers and festive occasions alike. Their rich cocoa flavor combined with the tender texture and optional nutty crunch creates an irresistible cookie that’s easy to prepare and versatile for many dietary needs. Whether you choose to roll them in powdered sugar for the classic look or customize with fun add-ins, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your baking rotation.

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