Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and cheer to any occasion. With their soft, buttery texture and a hint of cinnamon, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy evenings by the fire, or simply when you want a sweet indulgence. Their snowy coating of cinnamon-spiced powdered sugar adds an irresistible touch that makes them not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These cookies require simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and powdered sugar creates a warm and comforting taste that is sure to impress.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive holiday party or a cozy night in, these cookies fit right in.
• Customizable: Add your choice of finely chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture, or keep them nut-free for a classic version.
• Make Ahead: These cookies store well, allowing you to prepare them in advance for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools. Gathering everything beforehand will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl helps combine ingredients efficiently, ensuring even mixing.
• Baking sheet: Using a sturdy baking sheet ensures even heat distribution while baking, preventing burnt bottoms.
• Parchment paper: This non-stick surface makes transferring cookies easier and facilitates clean-up.

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Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup finely chopped nuts (optional)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt

For Coating

• Extra cinnamon
• Powdered sugar

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until smooth.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 3: Fold in Nuts (Optional)

If desired, fold in finely chopped nuts for added texture.

Step 4: Prepare to Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out 1-inch balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet about an inch apart.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown.

Step 6: Coat in Sugar Mixture

While still warm, roll each cookie in a mixture of powdered sugar and cinnamon. After they cool down slightly, roll them again to achieve that snowy finish.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply indulging on a cozy evening at home, these cookies pair beautifully with different accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Pair with Hot Beverages

• Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee complements the sweet cinnamon notes of the cookies.
• Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate adds a comforting touch, making it perfect for winter nights.
• Herbal Tea: Choose a soothing herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, for a refreshing contrast.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Mix with Other Cookies: Combine your snowball cookies with other holiday favorites for a festive dessert tray.
• Add Fresh Fruit: Include slices of seasonal fruits like pears or oranges for a refreshing balance.
• Incorporate Cheese: A small selection of mild cheeses can provide an interesting savory contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.

Use as Toppings

• Ice Cream: Crumble the cookies over vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer cookie crumbles in yogurt parfaits for added texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Perfecting your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies is simple with a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Starting with softened butter helps create a light and fluffy cookie dough.
• Measure Flour Properly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cookies.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on them while baking; they should be lightly golden at the bottom but still soft in the center.
• Roll While Warm: Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while they are warm allows for better coating and flavor absorption.
• Store Correctly: Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and softness.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies can shine alongside various side dishes that enhance their sweetness and warmth. Here’s a list of perfect pairings:

1. Chai Latte: This spiced tea blend pairs wonderfully with the flavors of cinnamon and sugar in the cookies.
2. Pecan Pie Bars: Rich and nutty, these bars offer a great textural contrast to the soft snowball cookies.
3. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm apple cider infused with spices complements the cookie’s flavor profile beautifully.
4. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides freshness, balancing the richness of the cookies.
5. Cheese Biscuit Bites: Savory cheese biscuits add variety and contrast against the sweet snowball treats.
6. Mini Chocolate Cupcakes: These rich little cakes create an indulgent dessert table when served together.
7. Caramel Sauce Dip: A small bowl of caramel sauce allows guests to dip their cookies for an extra sweet touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using cold butter: Cold butter won’t cream well with sugar. Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature for a light and fluffy texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated for that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Incorrect measurements can alter the cookie texture. Use a spoon to fluff the flour and then scoop it into your measuring cup for accuracy.
• Skipping the second rolling in sugar: Rolling in cinnamon-sugar only once can result in less flavor. Don’t skip this step for that perfect sweet coating!
• Not watching baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies. They should be golden brown on the bottom but still soft when you take them out.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for about 1 week in the fridge.

Freezing Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes for fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.

How do I make Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with texture.

Can I use different nuts in my Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies?

Absolutely! You can use any finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans based on your preference or omit them entirely.

What if I don’t have powdered sugar for rolling?

You can make your own powdered sugar by blending granulated sugar until fine or simply use granulated sugar mixed with cinnamon as an alternative.

How long do Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies last?

These cookies will remain fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for about 1 week or up to 3 months if frozen properly.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile enough for any occasion! Feel free to customize them by adding different nuts or adjusting the spice levels. Give this cozy recipe a try, and enjoy the festive flavors they bring to your gatherings!