Add a frosty twist to your holiday baking with these Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies! These bite-sized treats are buttery, crumbly, and packed with refreshing mint flavor and melty chocolate chips. Rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy finish, they’re as festive as they are delicious.
Perfect for holiday cookie platters, parties, or as a sweet gift, these cookies are easy to make and fun to eat. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and irresistible flavor, they’ll quickly become a family favorite.
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- Buttery and Crumbly: Classic snowball cookie texture with a refreshing mint twist.
- Festive and Fun: Perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges.
- Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and no chilling required.
- Customizable: Adjust the mint flavor or chocolate chips to suit your taste.
Exciting Story
The first time I made Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies, it was for a holiday cookie exchange. I wanted something that would stand out from the usual sugar cookies and gingerbread, so I decided to add a refreshing minty twist to the classic snowball cookie.
When I placed the platter on the table, the snowy powdered sugar and hints of chocolate peeking through caught everyone’s attention. The cookies were gone in minutes, with several people asking for the recipe. Now, these cookies are a holiday tradition, bringing a cool, minty burst of joy to every celebration.
Why These Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Unique Flavor: Mint and chocolate create a refreshing holiday twist on a classic cookie.
- Fun to Make: Rolling them in powdered sugar is a fun activity for kids and adults alike.
- Perfectly Festive: Look like little snowballs, ideal for the winter season.
- Great for Sharing: Bite-sized and easily portable for holiday gatherings.
What You Need for Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for rolling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- Optional: green food coloring for a festive minty hue
How to Make Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring and mix until evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
- Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The cookies will still be pale on top—don’t overbake!
Step 5: Roll in Powdered Sugar
- Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes, then roll each one in powdered sugar while still warm.
- Once completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for a thick, snowy coating.
Tips for Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies should be light and crumbly, not browned on top.
- Use Mini Chips: Mini chocolate chips distribute evenly through the dough for the best texture.
Substitutions and Variations
- Different Extracts: Substitute peppermint extract with spearmint, orange, or almond extract for a unique twist.
- Add Nuts: Mix in finely chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Make a Healthier Version
- Reduce Sugar: Use a sugar substitute in the dough and for rolling.
- Whole-Wheat Flour: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole-wheat flour for added fiber.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Opt for dark chocolate for a slightly healthier twist.
Closing for Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
And there you have it—Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies, a delightful, festive treat that’s perfect for spreading holiday cheer. Whether you’re making them for a party, a gift, or just for yourself, these cookies are sure to bring joy to anyone who tries them. Happy baking, and don’t forget to explore more of our holiday recipes for inspiration!
Frequently Asked Questions for Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. - How do I store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. - Can I freeze baked cookies?
Absolutely! Freeze in a single layer, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. - What’s the best way to prevent the dough from sticking?
Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes if it’s too soft to handle. - Do I have to use green food coloring?
No, the food coloring is optional and purely for aesthetics. - Can I use regular chocolate chips?
Yes, but mini chocolate chips are better for even distribution. - How do I ensure the cookies stay soft?
Avoid overbaking and store them in an airtight container. - Can I add crushed candy canes?
Yes, mix crushed candy canes into the dough or sprinkle them on top. - What if I don’t like mint?
Replace peppermint extract with vanilla or almond extract for a non-mint version. - Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavor. - What type of chocolate works best?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips provide the perfect balance of sweetness. - How do I keep the powdered sugar from melting?
Roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice—once when warm and again after cooling.
Enjoy baking and sharing these festive cookies with your loved ones this holiday season! 🎄🍪✨