Peppermint Snowball Cookies: A Festive Treat You’ll Love!

Name: Peppermint Snowball Cookies: A Festive Treat You’ll Love!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon peppermint extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies; 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

December 17, 2025Stella

Introduction to Peppermint Snowball Cookies

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself dreaming of sweet treats that bring joy to my family. Peppermint Snowball Cookies are one of those delightful recipes that make my heart sing. They’re not just cookies; they’re little bites of festive magic! With their buttery texture and refreshing peppermint flavor, these cookies are perfect for busy moms like us who want to impress loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet moment, these cookies are a quick solution that will leave everyone smiling.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Snowball Cookies

These Peppermint Snowball Cookies are a dream come true for busy schedules. They come together in just 35 minutes, making them a quick and easy treat for any occasion. The melt-in-your-mouth texture paired with the refreshing peppermint flavor is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike! You’ll love how effortlessly they elevate your holiday celebrations, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces.

Ingredients for Peppermint Snowball Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Peppermint Snowball Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter: This is the base of our cookies, providing that rich, buttery flavor. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Powdered sugar: This sweetener gives the cookies their melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s also used for rolling the cookies later!
Vanilla extract: A classic flavor that enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the cookies.
Peppermint extract: This is the star of the show! It brings that refreshing holiday flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount for a stronger taste.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of any cookie dough, it provides structure and helps the cookies hold their shape.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.
Crushed peppermint candies: These add a delightful crunch and extra peppermint flavor. You can use candy canes or any peppermint hard candy.
Extra powdered sugar: This is for rolling the cookies after baking, giving them that snowy appearance.

For those looking to make substitutions, you can use margarine instead of butter, or even coconut oil for a dairy-free option. The exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print and take to the kitchen!

How to Make Peppermint Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This little trick prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, your future self will thank you! Once the oven is ready, you’ll be all set to bake these delightful Peppermint Snowball Cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, add your softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the dough, giving your cookies that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Take your time here; it’s worth it for those delicious Peppermint Snowball Cookies!

Step 3: Add Extracts

Now it’s time to add some flavor! Pour in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Mix them in until everything is well combined. The aroma will be heavenly! This is where the magic happens, as the extracts infuse the dough with that refreshing peppermint flavor we all love. Don’t be shy; a little extra peppermint extract can really amp up the holiday spirit!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, it’s time to bring in the dry ingredients. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined; you don’t want to overwork the dough. It should be soft and slightly sticky. This is the foundation of your Peppermint Snowball Cookies, so make sure everything is evenly mixed. The anticipation is building, and you’re almost there!

Step 5: Fold in Peppermint Candies

Now for the fun part! Gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies. This adds a delightful crunch and bursts of peppermint flavor in every bite. Use a spatula to ensure the candies are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The vibrant colors of the candies will make your cookies look festive and inviting. I can already picture them on your holiday dessert table!

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

With your dough ready, it’s time to shape the cookies. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. They’ll spread a little while baking, so give them room to breathe. This step is perfect for getting the kids involved; they’ll love rolling the dough into little snowballs!

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want the edges to be lightly golden while the centers remain soft. The aroma of peppermint will fill your kitchen, making it feel like a holiday wonderland. Once they’re done, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.

Step 8: Cool and Roll in Sugar

After a few minutes, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they’re cool, it’s time for the final touch! Roll each cookie in powdered sugar to give them that snowy appearance. This step not only looks beautiful but adds a sweet finish to each bite. Your Peppermint Snowball Cookies are now ready to be enjoyed!

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing; it should be at room temperature.
Don’t overmix the dough after adding the flour; this keeps your cookies tender.
For a festive touch, sprinkle some extra crushed peppermint on top before baking.
Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes, ensuring even baking.
Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.

Equipment Needed

Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet works well, but a silicone baking mat can be a great alternative.
Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking; aluminum foil can also be used in a pinch.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential; a stand mixer can save time if you have one.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key; a kitchen scale can also be handy.
Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for folding in ingredients; a wooden spoon works too!

Variations

Chocolate Peppermint Snowballs: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the flour for a chocolatey twist that pairs beautifully with peppermint.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of eggs for a plant-based treat.
Mint Chocolate Chip: Fold in mini chocolate chips along with the crushed peppermint candies for a delightful mint-chocolate combination.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Peppermint Snowball Cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
Serve them alongside a festive fruit platter for a colorful holiday spread.
For a delightful presentation, arrange the cookies on a decorative plate and sprinkle with extra crushed peppermint.
These cookies also make a great addition to holiday gift baskets!

FAQs about Peppermint Snowball Cookies

Can I make Peppermint Snowball Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cookies can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just roll them in powdered sugar after thawing for that fresh, snowy look!

What can I use instead of peppermint extract?

If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can use mint extract as a substitute. Just keep in mind that mint extract has a stronger flavor, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.

How do I store leftover cookies?

To keep your Peppermint Snowball Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!

Can I use different types of candy for the cookies?

Yes! While crushed peppermint candies are traditional, you can experiment with other candies like crushed chocolate mints or even toffee bits for a unique twist. Just remember to adjust the sweetness accordingly!

What’s the best way to serve these cookies?

These cookies shine at holiday gatherings! Serve them on a festive platter with a sprinkle of extra crushed peppermint for a beautiful presentation. They pair wonderfully with coffee or hot cocoa, making them a perfect treat for cozy gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Making Peppermint Snowball Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories with loved ones. The joy of rolling the dough into little snowballs and watching them transform in the oven is a delightful experience. Each bite brings a burst of peppermint flavor, reminding us of the warmth and cheer of the holiday season. Whether you’re sharing them at a festive gathering or enjoying them with a cozy cup of tea, these cookies are sure to bring smiles. So, gather your ingredients and let the magic of baking fill your home with love and laughter!

Peppermint Snowball Cookies: A Festive Treat You’ll Love!

Author: Stella
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Peppermint Snowball Cookies are delightful, festive treats that combine the refreshing flavor of peppermint with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture, perfect for holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the vanilla and peppermint extracts, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the crushed peppermint candies.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before rolling them in powdered sugar.
Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before serving.