Soft, buttery, and coated in a warm cinnamon-sugar layer, these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are a delightful holiday treat. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and cozy cinnamon flavor, they’re perfect for festive gatherings or as a sweet accompaniment to a hot cup of tea or cocoa.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Melt-in-your-mouth texture: These cookies are light, buttery, and delicate.
- Festive appeal: The cinnamon-sugar coating gives them a snowball-like appearance with a warm, cozy twist.
- Nutty option: Add pecans or walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples, they’re quick and easy to whip up.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls (large and small)
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Wire cooling rack
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour, salt, and ground cinnamon, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- If desired, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty texture.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
- Scoop and roll the dough into 1-inch balls using a cookie scoop or your hands.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool slightly.
Step 4: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
- In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- While the cookies are still warm, gently roll each one in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
Tips for Success
- Double coating: For an extra layer of sweetness, roll the cookies in the cinnamon sugar a second time once they’ve completely cooled.
- Chilling the dough: If the dough feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before rolling into balls.
- Uniform size: Use a cookie scoop to ensure evenly sized cookies for consistent baking.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve these cookies at room temperature with tea, coffee, or hot cocoa.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze uncoated cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and coat in cinnamon sugar before serving.
Variations
- Chocolate twist: Add 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough for a fun flavor variation.
- Zesty flavor: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the dough for a citrusy touch.
- Nut-free: Omit the nuts for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the dough for extra warmth.
Helpful Notes
- Be careful not to overbake the cookies—they should be just set to maintain their tender texture.
- Use fresh cinnamon for the best flavor in the sugar coating.
- Let the cookies cool slightly before rolling in the sugar to ensure it adheres without melting.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten: “Use high-quality butter for a rich, authentic flavor in buttery cookies.”
- Mary Berry: “Chill your cookie dough for better shape retention during baking.”
- Giada De Laurentiis: “Garnish your cookie platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these cookies in advance?
A: Yes! They can be stored for up to a week or frozen uncoated for up to 3 months. Coat them in cinnamon sugar just before serving for the best flavor.
Q: Can I substitute margarine for butter?
A: Butter is recommended for its flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch.
Q: How do I ensure the cookies stay tender?
A: Avoid overmixing the dough and do not overbake.
Q: Can I skip the cinnamon sugar coating?
A: You can, but the coating adds a lovely sweetness and warmth. Alternatively, roll them in powdered sugar for a classic snowball cookie look.
Q: What nuts work best in this recipe?
A: Pecans and walnuts are traditional, but almonds or hazelnuts can also be used.
These Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are a cozy, festive addition to your holiday baking lineup. Perfectly spiced and irresistibly tender, they’ll quickly become a family favorite!
