These delightful Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are the ultimate treat for festive gatherings. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture, combined with a sweet coating of powdered sugar and the surprise of mini chocolate chips, makes them a holiday favorite. Perfect for cookie trays, parties, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa, these cookies will surely impress your guests.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cookies
- How to Make Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare Almonds
- Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
- Step 5: Add Vanilla Extract
- Step 6: Combine Mixtures
- Step 7: Form Cookies
- Step 8: Bake
- Step 9: First Sugar Coat
- Step 10: Second Sugar Coat
- Step 11: Store
- How to Serve Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
- With Hot Beverages
- On a Dessert Platter
- As Party Favors
- How to Perfect Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
- Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
- Reheating Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini ones?
- How do I ensure my cookies stay soft?
- Can I add nuts other than almonds?
- What makes these Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies special?
- How do I customize this recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery dough and nutty almonds creates a rich taste.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these cookies are approachable for bakers of all levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or an everyday treat, they fit every event.
- Versatile Appearance: Their snowy powdered sugar coating makes them visually appealing on any dessert table.
- Make Ahead Friendly: They can be stored for up to a week, making them ideal for early preparations.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking these delicious cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Cookie sheets
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Ensures even mixing of ingredients, resulting in a uniform dough.
- Food processor: Quickly grinds almonds to the perfect texture without much effort.
- Wire rack: Allows cookies to cool properly, preventing sogginess.
Ingredients
Here is everything you need to create these delectable Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies:
For the Cookies
- ¾ cup sliced almonds
- 2 cups (282g) all-purpose flour (scoop and level to measure)
- ¼ + ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, halfway softened
- 1½ cups (192g) powdered sugar, divided
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (160g) mini chocolate chips
How to Make Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Almonds
Use a food processor to grind the sliced almonds into tiny bits. Set them aside for later use.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside as well.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the halfway softened butter and ½ cup (64g) of powdered sugar until just blended and slightly creamy. Avoid over-beating; you want it mixed but not fluffy.
Step 5: Add Vanilla Extract
Add in the vanilla extract and mix until fully combined with the butter mixture.
Step 6: Combine Mixtures
With your mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture from Step 3. Mix until just combined. Gently stir in the mini chocolate chips and ground almonds until evenly distributed. You may need to use a spatula to fold them in thoroughly.
Step 7: Form Cookies
Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough at a time and roll it into balls. Place these on an ungreased cookie sheet, spacing them about two inches apart—aim for around 16 per sheet.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden brown.
Step 9: First Sugar Coat
Let your cookies cool slightly until they are warm enough to handle. Roll each cookie in about 1 cup (128g) of powdered sugar before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely on the rack.
Step 10: Second Sugar Coat
Once cooled fully, roll each cookie again in powdered sugar if you desire an extra thick snowy coating.
Step 11: Store
Store your Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Enjoy!
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply indulging at home, these cookies add a touch of sweetness to any occasion.
With Hot Beverages
- Coffee: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee for a classic treat that balances sweetness with the rich flavor of coffee.
- Tea: A light herbal tea complements the buttery texture and sweetness of the cookies, making for a soothing snack.
- Hot Cocoa: Enjoy your Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies with a cozy mug of hot cocoa for an indulgent winter treat.
On a Dessert Platter
- Cookie Assortment: Arrange these snowball cookies alongside other holiday favorites like gingerbread or sugar cookies for a delightful dessert platter.
- Festive Garnish: Add some festive touches like mint leaves or seasonal berries to enhance the presentation and flavor.
As Party Favors
- Gift Packaging: Place your cookies in decorative boxes or bags tied with ribbon to give as sweet party favors at holiday gatherings.
- Personal Touch: Include a handwritten note with your cookie gifts for a personal touch that friends and family will appreciate.
How to Perfect Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Creating the perfect Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve cookie perfection.
- Use halfway softened butter: This helps prevent excessive spreading while still allowing for easy mixing.
- Sift powdered sugar: Sifting ensures that the sugar is light and fluffy, giving your cookies that snowy appearance when coated.
- Chill dough if needed: If your dough seems too soft, chill it for about 30 minutes before rolling into balls for better shape retention.
- Avoid overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be lightly golden but still soft in the center for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Store properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming too hard.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Pairing side dishes with Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully, providing a contrast to the crunchy texture of the cookies.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balance, making it a great complement to the rich flavors of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting flavor profile when enjoyed alongside sweet snowball cookies.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie in warm chocolate fondue for an extra indulgent treat that takes dessert to another level.
- Nut Mixes: Offering assorted nuts can provide crunch and contrast, enhancing the overall taste experience with their savory notes.
- Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of whipped cream brings creaminess and lightness, perfect for those who enjoy a softer texture with their cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies can be a joy, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Using fully softened butter: Butter should be halfway softened to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined for tender results.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Use the scoop and level method for accurate measurements. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
- Skipping the second sugar coat: The second rolling in powdered sugar creates that classic snowball look and adds sweetness. Don’t skip it!
- Crowding the baking sheet: Leave enough space between cookies on the sheet to allow for spreading. About 16 per sheet is optimal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Keep layers of cookies separated with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Freezing Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking.
Reheating Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate.
- Stovetop: Use a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes. This method helps retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini ones?
Yes, you can use regular chocolate chips, but mini chips distribute better throughout the dough.
How do I ensure my cookies stay soft?
Make sure not to overbake them. They should be lightly golden on the bottom when done and will firm up as they cool.
Can I add nuts other than almonds?
Absolutely! Feel free to use walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile while keeping the nutty crunch intact.
What makes these Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies special?
These cookies combine buttery goodness with chocolatey sweetness, making them perfect for holiday celebrations and cozy gatherings.
How do I customize this recipe?
You can add various flavors like almond extract or even mix in dried fruits or other types of chocolate chips based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are an irresistible treat that brings joy during any festive occasion. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with chocolate chips makes them a favorite among cookie lovers. Plus, you can easily customize them by adding your favorite nuts or flavors, making each batch uniquely yours. Give this delightful recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
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📖 Recipe Card
PrintChocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Indulge in the festive delight of Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies, a perfect treat for holiday celebrations or cozy gatherings. These cookies boast a melt-in-your-mouth texture that combines buttery goodness with sweet mini chocolate chips, all enveloped in a snowy coating of powdered sugar. Easy to make and visually appealing, they are an excellent addition to cookie trays and dessert platters alike. Whether enjoyed alongside a warm cup of cocoa or as party favors, these delightful snowball cookies will surely impress your guests and leave them craving more.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- ¾ cup sliced almonds
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ + ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (halfway softened)
- 1½ cups powdered sugar (divided)
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grind sliced almonds in a food processor until finely chopped.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour and salt; set aside.
- Cream butter and ½ cup powdered sugar in a stand mixer until blended.
- Mix in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture; fold in chocolate chips and ground almonds.
- Roll dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place on ungreased cookie sheets, spaced two inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden on the bottoms.
- Cool slightly, then roll cookies in powdered sugar before transferring to wire racks.
- For an extra snowy coating, roll again in powdered sugar once cooled.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 92
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
