I still remember the first time my grandmother introduced me to Peppermint Snowball Cookies. It was a chilly December afternoon in Asheville, and the scent of pine and woodsmoke drifted through the air. I was about ten years old, standing on a stool in her cozy kitchen, surrounded by vibrant holiday decorations and the warmth of the oven. She handed me a bowl filled with butter, confectioners’ sugar, and crushed candy canes, and I felt an instant thrill of excitement. As we mixed, the sugar-coated air began to fill with a refreshing mint aroma, immediately bringing memories of holiday cheer.
Our family traditions always involved baking together, and these Peppermint Snowball Cookies quickly became a pivotal part of those cherished moments. I remember my grandmother’s laughter as we tried to roll the dough into perfect little balls, each dusted with powdered sugar like the freshest snowflakes. There was something magical about transforming simple ingredients into treats that would bring smiles to our loved ones’ faces. Even now, each bite of these cookies transports me back to those warm, loving days filled with laughter and joy.
Flavor and Popularity
The Unique Flavor Profile of Peppermint Snowball Cookies
Peppermint Snowball Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them an irresistible treat during the holiday season. The first bite reveals a soft, buttery cookie that melts in your mouth, perfectly complemented by the crisp crunch of sugar on the outside. The unmistakable taste of peppermint lifts the cookie, adding a refreshing zing that captures the essence of winter.
What sets these cookies apart is their contrast. The rich, creamy butter provides a luxurious base, while the peppermint adds a vibrant twist. Some recipes play with the texture by incorporating finely crushed candy canes, creating a dash of festive color. This combination results in cookies that not only taste incredible but also look stunning on a platter, catching the eye and exciting the palate.
Why This Recipe Is a Family Favorite and Crowd-Pleaser
These Peppermint Snowball Cookies have been a staple in my family gatherings for as long as I can remember. Their ability to bring everyone together, from the youngest family members to the oldest, is truly magical. There’s something about sitting around the table, sharing stories and laughter while enjoying these treats, that fosters a sense of togetherness and warmth.
What’s more, they’re incredibly easy to make! Even if cooking isn’t your strongest suit, I promise you’ll impress everyone in your life. Simple yet delightful, these cookies appeal to the sweet tooth in all of us. They make perfect gifts for neighbors, successful additions to cookie swaps, or a cozy snack during a family movie night.
Ingredients and Preparation
Essential Ingredients and Possible Substitutions
To create these charming Peppermint Snowball Cookies, you’ll want to gather a few essential ingredients:
- Butter: Unsalted butter forms the rich foundation of these cookies. If you’re in a pinch, try using margarine, but the taste will differ slightly.
- Sugar: Confectioners’ sugar provides that signature sweetness and helps create the desirable texture. You may substitute it with a sugar alternative, though the results may vary.
- Vanilla Extract: This adds depth to the flavor profile. You can swap it for almond extract for a unique twist.
- Peppermint Extract: Choose a good quality extract for an authentic flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, use less or dilute it with water.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is the standard, but a gluten-free blend works well if you’re catering to gluten-free needs.
- Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch results in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you don’t have cornstarch, a little extra flour can substitute but alters the texture slightly.
- Crushed Candy Canes: Essential for that festive touch! Feel free to use peppermint candies or omit them for a more classic flavor.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions with Tips
Now that you have gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into making these delightful Peppermint Snowball Cookies. Here’s how to whip them up:
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get ready for the baking magic.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and ½ cup of confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2–3 minutes of mixing.
Add Extracts: Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract. Adjust the peppermint according to your taste, keeping in mind that a little goes a long way!
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, blending well until smooth.
Fold in Crushed Candy Canes: Gently mix in ½ cup of crushed candy canes, ensuring an even distribution throughout the dough.
Shape the Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough and roll it into small balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving each ball some space to spread.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden and the tops look set. Remember, they will continue to cook slightly after you take them out of the oven.
Dust with Sugar: While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar for that signature snowball look. Allow them to cool on a wire rack, then dust again before serving for that snowy finish.
Serve and Enjoy: Share the joy with friends and family, or save a batch for yourself (if you can resist!).
Cooking Techniques and Tips
How to Cook Peppermint Snowball Cookies Perfectly
The secret to perfect Peppermint Snowball Cookies is in the right balance of temperature and timing. Always ensure your butter is at room temperature for even mixing and texture. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies, so gently combine all ingredients until just mixed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the most frequent oversights when making Peppermint Snowball Cookies is not letting the cookies cool before rolling them in powdered sugar. Doing this creates a gooey mess instead of a beautifully dusted treat. Additionally, don’t skip the cornstarch—the lighter texture it brings transforms the cookies from good to extraordinary.
Health Benefits and Serving Suggestions
Nutritional Value of Peppermint Snowball Cookies
While Peppermint Snowball Cookies are undeniably a sweet indulgence, their comforting nature can be a delightful respite during a busy holiday season. The treats won’t win any health awards, but they can provide a dose of joy and nostalgia that is undeniably beneficial for the spirit.
In moderation, enjoying these cookies can be a part of a balanced lifestyle. You can even enhance the health aspect by incorporating finely chopped nuts or seeds into the dough for added fiber and nutrients.
Best Ways to Serve and Pair This Dish
Serve Peppermint Snowball Cookies on a decorative platter, and they’re bound to be a hit at any holiday gathering. Pair them with a steaming cup of hot cocoa or spiced cider for a pairing that elevates your dessert experience. These cookies can also double as the perfect sweet accent to a holiday cheese board—imagine the delightful contrast of flavors!
What type of mushrooms are best for Peppermint Snowball Cookies?
While mushrooms aren’t a traditional ingredient in Peppermint Snowball Cookies, you’ll often find this question peeking out in blog comments and recipes. The truth is, no mushrooms belong in these delicious treats! They are all about butter, sugar, and minty goodness.
Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh?
Garlic is another flavor that doesn’t belong in these cookies either—stick with the sweetness! However, if you find yourself needing garlic for savory dishes down the line, dried garlic can serve as a milder substitute for fresh.
How do I store leftover Peppermint Snowball Cookies?
If you have any leftovers (a big if, honestly), store your Peppermint Snowball Cookies in an airtight container. They can stay fresh at room temperature for about a week, or in the fridge for up to two weeks. Just remember to keep powdered sugar dusting for the prettiest presentation!
Can I freeze Peppermint Snowball Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze these cookies for up to three months. Make sure to line them with parchment paper in an airtight container. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
As I close, I hope you feel inspired to embrace this cozy recipe for Peppermint Snowball Cookies. Baking is a way to express love, sharing joy and deliciousness with those who matter most. If you’re like me, the kitchen is more than just a place to cook—it’s where memories are made. Trust me, you’ll want to make this recipe again and again, filling your home with the blissful aroma of peppermint and cheer. So roll up those sleeves, grab your ingredients, and let’s create something wonderful together!
Print
Peppermint Snowball Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully soft and buttery cookies infused with peppermint, dusted with powdered sugar for a festive holiday treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla and peppermint extracts, mixing until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, blending until smooth.
- Fold in the crushed candy canes.
- Scoop the dough and roll into small balls, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the bottoms are golden.
- Dust with powdered sugar while still warm, then cool on a wire rack and dust again before serving.
Notes
Allow cookies to cool before rolling in powdered sugar to avoid a gooey mess. Ensure butter is at room temperature for even mixing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cookies, holiday treats, peppermint, Christmas cookies, dessert