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Chocolate Snowball Cookies with Melted Chocolate Centers

Chocolate Snowball Cookies with Melted Chocolate Centers


  • Author: Susan
  • Total Time: 1 Hour 10 Minutes
  • Yield: 24 Servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

 

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for added crunch)
  • 24 chocolate chunks (about 1/2 inch, for melted centers)

Instructions

 

  1. Cream Butter and Sugar:
    In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add Vanilla Extract:
    Mix in the vanilla extract until evenly incorporated. (Tip: Vanilla bean paste adds extra depth of flavor!)
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
    In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
  4. Add Nuts (Optional):
    If using, fold the chopped nuts into the dough until evenly distributed. (Tip: Toast nuts beforehand to enhance flavor.)
  5. Shape the Dough:
    Scoop out a tablespoon of dough, flatten it in your palm, and place a chocolate chunk in the center. Fold the dough around the chocolate, rolling it into a smooth ball. Repeat with the remaining dough.
  6. Roll in Powdered Sugar:
    Roll each dough ball in powdered sugar until fully coated, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Chill the Dough:
    Refrigerate the cookie dough balls for 15-20 minutes to firm them up.
  8. Bake:
    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
  9. Cool and Double-Coat:
    Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar again for a snowy finish.

Notes

Helpful Notes and Tips

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature butter to achieve a smooth, creamy dough that combines easily.
  • Chilling: Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain shape and keeps the chocolate from seeping out during baking.
  • Double Coating: For an even snowier look, roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice—once before baking and once while they’re still warm after baking.
  • Prep Time: 30 Minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 Minutes