Christmas Snowball Cookies

Christmas Snowball Cookies bring a special sparkle to the holiday season. They’re a delightful treat that looks beautiful on any dessert table, making them perfect for celebrating with family and friends. What I love most about these cookies is not just their taste but also the memories they stir up. Imagine gathering around the kitchen, laughter filling the air, while you measure, mix, and roll these sweet little bites into festive balls coated in powdered sugar. It’s a simple recipe that anyone can whip up, making it a holiday favorite!

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Let’s dive into how to make these Christmas Snowball Cookies, ensuring you’re equipped with all the tips and tricks for success. As we go through the process, I promise you’ll find baking these cookies to be as much fun as eating them. Grab your apron, and let’s get started!

Why This Recipe Works

The balance of ingredients in these cookies is key to their light and fluffy texture. When you start with the right amount of butter, you set the stage for that rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavor that everyone loves. Plus, using butter at the right softness contributes to a smooth dough that’s easy to manage.

But wait, there’s more! Including mini M&Ms gives these Snowball Cookies that extra bite. Not only do they add a delightful crunch, but they also introduce a splash of color, making them even more festive. These cookies are not just about taste; they’re all about the holiday cheer they bring to your gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Snowball Cookies

Growing up, many of us have fond memories of baking with family during the holidays. These Christmas Snowball Cookies often bring that nostalgic feeling back. They are incredibly easy to make, which means you don’t have to worry about complex techniques. Just mix, roll, bake, and enjoy!

What’s even better is their versatility. You can swap out M&Ms for different colors to match your holiday theme. Pink for Valentine’s Day? Green and red for Christmas? The options are as endless as your imagination!

Ingredients

To make these delightful cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, slightly softened
• ½ cup (57g) powdered sugar (do NOT pack your powdered sugar)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups (279g) all-purpose flour (do NOT pack your flour)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mini M&Ms (any color)
• Additional powdered sugar for rolling

Preparing to Bake

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you want to set the mood for baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. This not only helps with even baking but also means easy cleanup!

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine your slightly softened butter with ½ cup of powdered sugar and the vanilla extract. Grab an electric mixer and beat these ingredients until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. You want that dreamy texture that makes every bite delightful.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

Now, in another bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Gradually add this into your wet mixture until a cohesive dough forms. Don’t get discouraged if it seems a bit crumbly initially. Just keep mixing—it’ll come together beautifully.

Incorporate the M&Ms

Once your dough is ready, gently fold in the mini M&Ms. You want to spread them evenly throughout, ensuring that every bite contains a bit of color and crunch. It may be tempting to gobble down a few M&Ms, but try to save some for the cookies!

Shaping the Cookies

Scoop the Dough

Now comes the fun part! Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Aim for a uniform size so they bake evenly. Space them nicely on your prepared cookie sheets, giving them room to breathe!

Bake to Perfection

Pop those cookie sheets into the oven and let them bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep a close watch on them! Look for the bottoms to become slightly golden. This is your cue that they’re done.

Adding the Finishing Touch

Roll in Powdered Sugar

Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5-10 minutes. Then, while they’re warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar. This gives them that classic snowball effect! For extra sweetness, consider re-rolling them in the sugar once they cool completely.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve enjoyed these tasty treats, make sure to store the leftovers properly.

• Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• If you want to save them for later, freeze them for up to one month. Just defrost before enjoying, and you can re-roll them in powdered sugar for that fresh look!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the experience, pair these cookies with a steaming mug of hot cocoa or spiced apple cider. They also shine when served alongside a platter of other holiday cookies, creating a delightful spread.

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t hesitate to add a twist! Incorporating crushed nuts or dried fruit can add a whole new texture and flavor to your cookies. You might also consider using flavored extracts like almond or peppermint to switch things up a bit!

Tips for Success

Here are some handy tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly:

• Make sure your butter is at the right softness. This is essential for the best mixing results.
• Take your time while mixing the dough. A thorough mix is crucial for achieving that smooth texture.
• Adjust baking times according to your oven for the best results.

Pairing Ideas

For a fantastic dessert experience, serve the cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It creates a lovely contrast. Alternatively, enjoy them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.

FAQs

What can I substitute for M&Ms?
If you’re out of M&Ms, feel free to use any small chocolate or candy pieces, like chocolate chips or bits of dried fruit.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can, but reduce the added salt to maintain a balanced flavor.

How do I know when my cookies are finished baking?
Look for the edges to firm up, with a slight browning underneath and soft centers.

Can these cookies be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing the dough in advance and refrigerating it is a great way to save time.

How should I store leftover cookies?
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Baking Christmas Snowball Cookies is sure to fill your home with warmth and joy. From the first mix to rolling them in sugar, this recipe captures the holiday spirit in every bite. Whether you continue this as a tradition or make it a new favorite, these cookies are bound to spread happiness to everyone around. Happy baking!

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