Minty Snowball Cookies

Minty Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that combine the refreshing flavor of peppermint with a soft, buttery texture. Perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or simply as an indulgent snack, these cookies stand out with their unique minty twist and snowy appearance. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at cookies for the first time, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of Minty Snowball Cookies in no time.
• Festive Flavor: The addition of peppermint extract gives these cookies a refreshing taste that’s perfect for seasonal celebrations.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them at holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or even as a sweet gift for friends and family.
• Beautiful Presentation: Coated in powdered sugar, these cookies look like little snowballs—ideal for adding to your festive dessert table.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the flavor or color by adding more peppermint extract or food coloring.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Ensures that the butter and sugar are perfectly blended for a light texture.
• Baking sheet: Allows even baking of your cookies while providing enough room for spreading.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• A few drops of green food coloring (optional)
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Coating

• 1 cup powdered sugar

How to Make Minty Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy.
2. Add in the peppermint extract and green food coloring (if using) and continue mixing until combined.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt to the mixture until it forms a dough.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

1. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
2. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until they are set but not browned. Remove from oven and let cool slightly on the baking sheet.

Step 5: Coat with Powdered Sugar

Once cooled, roll each cookie in powdered sugar until fully coated. Enjoy your Minty Snowball Cookies!

How to Serve Minty Snowball Cookies

Minty Snowball Cookies are delightful treats that can brighten any occasion. Their sweet, minty flavor pairs well with various beverages and desserts, making them a versatile option for serving.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies.
• Tea: Mint tea or herbal blends enhance the minty notes of the cookies.
• Hot Chocolate: A cozy pairing for a winter treat, adding extra chocolate indulgence.

As Dessert Platters

• Mixed Cookie Tray: Combine with other cookies for a colorful dessert display.
• Dessert Charcuterie Board: Include fruits, nuts, and chocolates alongside the cookies for a gourmet touch.

For Celebrations

• Holiday Parties: Perfect for festive gatherings; they add a cheerful touch to any table.
• Birthdays: These cookies can be a fun alternative to traditional birthday cake.

How to Perfect Minty Snowball Cookies

To achieve the best Minty Snowball Cookies, follow these helpful tips for a perfect batch every time.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading during baking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your butter and peppermint extract are fresh for optimal flavor.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level off to avoid dense cookies.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly golden but not browned.
• Coat Generously: Roll in powdered sugar while warm for better adherence and sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Minty Snowball Cookies

Minty Snowball Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavor profile. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a satisfying texture contrast.
3. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The tartness of strawberries enhances the cookie’s mint flavor beautifully.
4. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese create a savory contrast to sweet cookies.
5. Nut Mix: A blend of almonds, walnuts, and cashews provides crunch and richness alongside the soft cookies.
6. Ice Cream: Vanilla or mint ice cream creates a delightful dessert experience when served together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using too much peppermint extract: Adding too much can overpower the cookies with a harsh taste. Stick to the recommended amount for the best flavor.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Skipping the cooling step: Not letting the cookies cool before coating in powdered sugar can cause the sugar to melt. Always cool them completely for a nice coating.
• Not using softened butter: Cold butter does not blend well with sugar, leading to dense cookies. Ensure your butter is softened for a light texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store Minty Snowball Cookies in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Freezing Minty Snowball Cookies

• • Duration: Freeze cookies for up to three months.
• • Containers: Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating Minty Snowball Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, keeping an eye to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Minty Snowball Cookies that might help you in your baking journey.

Can I substitute different extracts in Minty Snowball Cookies?

Yes, you can use vanilla or almond extract instead of peppermint if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What can I use instead of powdered sugar for coating?

You can use granulated sugar or make your own powdered sugar by blending granulated sugar until fine.

How long do Minty Snowball Cookies stay fresh?

These cookies stay fresh at room temperature for about five days when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

Minty Snowball Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They bring a refreshing mint flavor that pairs well with various occasions. Feel free to customize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy delightful bites of minty goodness!