Christmas Snowball Cookies

Christmas Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that will bring joy to your holiday celebrations. With their festive colors and sweet flavor, these cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with family. The unique combination of buttery goodness and crunchy M&Ms makes them a standout addition to any dessert table. Plus, they are simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This cookie recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Colors: Feel free to use any color of mini M&Ms, allowing you to match them to any occasion!
• Deliciously Sweet: The buttery dough combined with the sweetness of M&Ms creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Great for Gift Giving: Pack these cookies in festive boxes for a homemade gift that friends and family will love.
• Freezable: Bake ahead of time! These cookies can be frozen and enjoyed later.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking Christmas Snowball Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort by mixing ingredients quickly and thoroughly.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Cookie sheets: Provide an even baking surface to ensure consistent results.

Ingredients

For these Christmas Snowball Cookies, you will 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
• 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)

How to Make Christmas Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Mix together the butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer until fluffy.
1. Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
2. If necessary, use your hands to knead the dough until it forms a cohesive mixture. Stir in the mini M&Ms until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Scoop the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop, portion out tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared cookie sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly browned. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on the sheet for about 5-10 minutes.

Step 5: Roll in Sugar

Once cool enough to handle, roll each cookie in additional powdered sugar. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra touch of sweetness, consider re-rolling them in powdered sugar after they have cooled.

Storage Tips

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container or frozen for up to one month. If freezing, you may want to re-roll them in powdered sugar after defrosting for that fresh-baked look!

How to Serve Christmas Snowball Cookies

Christmas Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that adds a festive touch to any holiday gathering. Their sweetness and colorful appearance make them perfect for sharing with friends and family. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enjoy these delicious cookies.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange your cookies on a decorative platter, mixing in some seasonal fruits like berries or citrus slices for added color.

With Hot Beverages

• Serve these cookies alongside warm drinks like hot chocolate, tea, or coffee. The contrast of temperatures enhances the experience.

As Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons. They make great party favors that guests can take home.

With Ice Cream

• Pair the cookies with a scoop of vanilla or mint ice cream. The coolness of the ice cream complements the buttery flavor of the cookies.

In Dessert Boxes

• Create dessert boxes filled with assorted treats, including Christmas Snowball Cookies. This allows guests to sample different flavors.

As a Cookie Bar

• Set up a cookie bar at your holiday party where guests can choose their favorite cookies, including your delightful Snowball Cookies!

How to Perfect Christmas Snowball Cookies

To ensure your Christmas Snowball Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Slightly softened butter mixes more easily, leading to a fluffier dough.

• Measure Ingredients Carefully: Use proper measuring techniques for powdered sugar and flour to avoid dense cookies.

• Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft, chill it for 30 minutes before scooping. This helps maintain shape during baking.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be just lightly golden on the bottom for optimal softness.

• Roll Twice in Powdered Sugar: For an extra sweet coating, roll the cooled cookies in powdered sugar twice for an appealing finish.

Best Side Dishes for Christmas Snowball Cookies

Christmas Snowball Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their festive appeal. Below are some great options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balance to the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter: Include a selection of cheeses like brie or cheddar to contrast with the sugary treats.

3. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with spices offer a crunchy texture and savory complement to the soft cookies.

4. Mini Pies: Bite-sized fruit or nut pies provide variety and are easy for guests to enjoy alongside their cookies.

5. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fountain where guests can dip fruits or even pieces of cookie into melted chocolate.

6. Holiday Punch: A non-alcoholic punch made with fruit juices and sparkling water provides a festive drink option that pairs well with sweets.

7. Veggie Platter: A colorful array of fresh vegetables can cleanse the palate between bites of sweet treats.

8. Brownies: Rich chocolate brownies create a delightful dessert table alongside your Christmas Snowball Cookies!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve perfect Christmas Snowball Cookies every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold butter: Cold butter can make it difficult for the ingredients to mix well. Always use slightly softened butter to ensure a fluffy dough.
• Packing powdered sugar: Packing powdered sugar can lead to cookies that are too sweet and dense. Measure it lightly without packing to get the right texture.
• Not letting the cookies cool: Rolling warm cookies in powdered sugar can cause the sugar to melt away. Allow them to cool briefly before rolling for a nice coating.
• Skipping parchment paper: Baking directly on a cookie sheet can result in sticking and uneven baking. Always line your cookie sheets with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Overbaking: Overbaking will yield dry cookies instead of soft ones. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as the bottoms are slightly brown.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Christmas Snowball Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then freeze until solid.
• Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag; they can be frozen for up to one month.

Reheating Christmas Snowball Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat, or they may become tough.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing a lid over it. Warm each cookie for about 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Christmas Snowball Cookies?

Christmas Snowball Cookies are delightfully soft and buttery treats rolled in powdered sugar, often featuring colorful M&Ms, making them festive and fun.

Can I customize my Christmas Snowball Cookies?

Absolutely! You can swap M&Ms for other chocolate candies, nuts, or even dried fruits based on your preference.

How long do Christmas Snowball Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh for about one week.

Can I use different types of flour?

Yes! You can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends if desired, but it may alter the texture slightly.

What’s the best way to decorate my Christmas Snowball Cookies?

Besides rolling them in powdered sugar, you can drizzle melted chocolate or add festive sprinkles before serving!

Final Thoughts

Christmas Snowball Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their simple base allows for endless customization—from different candies to flavorings. Whether you’re baking for holiday gatherings or just treating yourself, give this recipe a try today!