Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Treats

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that combine a buttery center with a sweet spiced coating. They have a tender melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them irresistible and perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion. These cookies might look fancy, but they are incredibly simple to make.

I remember making these cookies with my grandma every Christmas. Rolling the warm dough balls in cinnamon sugar was my favorite part, and the aroma filling the kitchen always signaled the start of the holidays.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: Softened for a tender rich base. Quality butter makes all the difference here.
• Powdered sugar: Adds a smooth sweetness without grittiness.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses warmth to the dough. Use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure for the cookies. Look for unbleached flour for a more natural flavor.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy spice that pairs perfectly with sugar.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
• Finely chopped pecans or walnuts: Optional for a delightful crunch. Choose fresh nuts free of any bitterness.
• Powdered sugar: Combined with cinnamon for a dreamy coating that gives the snowball effect.

How To Make Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Sift the Dry Ingredients:

Whisk together the flour, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl until well combined. This prevents any clumps and ensures an even flavor.

Cream the Butter and Sugar:

In another bowl, cream the softened butter with powdered sugar until you achieve a light and fluffy texture. This step is crucial for the cookies' melt-in-your-mouth feel.

Incorporate Vanilla:

Mix in the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture ensuring an even distribution of flavor.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while stirring gently. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough soft and tender.

Fold in Nuts:

If using nuts, fold them into the dough ensuring they are evenly distributed for consistent bites of nutty goodness.

Shape the Dough:

Roll the dough into small 1-inch balls using your hands and place them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F or 175°C for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges turn a light golden color.

Roll in Cinnamon Sugar:

While the cookies are still slightly warm, gently roll them in a powdered sugar and cinnamon mixture. This forms the first coat of the snowy finish.

Cool and Finish:

Allow the cookies to cool completely before rolling them again in powdered sugar to achieve their full snowy coating.

The cinnamon sugar coating is probably my favorite part because it reminds me of cozy winter mornings. The fragrance alone takes me back to family kitchens filled with laughter during cookie baking sessions.

Storage Tips

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a tightly sealed container for up to a month. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have pecans or walnuts on hand, omit them or substitute with almonds. For a different flavor profile, you can try cardamom instead of cinnamon in the sugar coating.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or spiced tea. They also make a beautiful addition to holiday dessert platters.

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are versatile enough for both casual family get-togethers and elegant celebrations. Their simple preparation and unforgettable flavor make them a standout recipe you will want to bake again and again.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies.

→ What nuts work best for this recipe?

Both pecans and walnuts are excellent choices, but you can omit nuts for a simpler version.

→ Why roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice?

Rolling them while warm creates a sweet coating that sticks, and a second roll after cooling enhances the snowy texture.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add other spices to the dough?

Yes, you can experiment with nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth and spiced flavor.