Peppermint Snowball Cookies Delightful Holiday Treat

Name: Peppermint Snowball Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon peppermint extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 2 cup cornstarch; 1 4 teaspoon salt; 1 2 cup crushed peppermint candies (or candy canes)

December 7, 2025August 22, 2025 by Isabella

The holiday season calls for sweet treats, and Peppermint Snowball Cookies are a must! These little bites of joy blend the refreshing taste of peppermint with a rich, buttery texture. Whether you’re baking for family or holiday parties, these cookies are sure to impress. Join me as we explore the simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and tips to make your cookies shine. Let’s get started on this delightful holiday journey together!

Why I Love This Recipe

Festive Flavor: The combination of peppermint and vanilla creates a delightful holiday flavor that is sure to impress.
Simple Preparation: With only a few steps, these cookies are easy to make, even for novice bakers.
Beautiful Presentation: Dusting with powdered sugar gives them a snowy appearance, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Perfect for Gifting: These cookies make a lovely gift when packaged in a decorative box or tin, spreading holiday cheer.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for Peppermint Snowball Cookies

You need some key items to make peppermint snowball cookies. Here’s what to gather:

– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

– 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting

– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup cornstarch

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (or candy canes)

These ingredients blend together to create a soft, buttery cookie with a minty twist.

Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor

To give your cookies a special touch, you can add some optional items:

– A pinch of cocoa powder for a chocolatey flavor

– Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch

– A drop of food coloring for a festive look

These extras can make your cookies unique and fun for the holidays.

Equipment Needed for Baking

To bake these cookies, you’ll need some basic tools:

– Baking sheet

– Parchment paper

– Large mixing bowl

– Whisk for mixing dry ingredients

– Cookie scoop or spoon for shaping dough

– Wire rack for cooling

Having the right equipment makes baking easier and more enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping Your Baking Area

Start by getting your area ready. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your cookies bake evenly. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps the cookies not stick. Gather all your ingredients. Having everything in one spot makes baking easier.

Mixing the Dough: Detailed Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of softened unsalted butter. Then, mix in 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Beat them together until the mix is light and fluffy. Add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Mix until everything blends well.

In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your butter mixture. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies. Ensure they spread evenly in the dough for bursts of flavor.

Shaping, Baking, and Cooling the Cookies

Now, it’s time to shape the cookies. Use your hands to form the dough into 1-inch balls. Place these balls on your lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should look lightly golden while the centers remain soft.

After baking, let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, dust them with extra powdered sugar. This makes them look like snowy treats, perfect for the holidays!

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Perfect Cookie Texture

To make your cookies soft and melt-in-your-mouth, use room temperature butter. Cream it well with powdered sugar. This step adds air, making them fluffy. Mix the dry ingredients gently. Overmixing can make cookies tough. When you bake, check for light golden edges. They should look soft but will firm up as they cool.

Substituting Ingredients for Allergies or Preferences

If you have allergies, you can swap the butter for a dairy-free version. Use coconut oil or a vegan butter. For a gluten-free option, try almond flour or a gluten-free blend. You can also replace peppermint extract with vanilla for a milder taste. Just adjust the amount to your liking.

Best Practices for Dusting with Powdered Sugar

Dusting with powdered sugar gives the cookies a lovely snowy look. Wait until the cookies cool completely. If they are warm, the sugar will melt. Use a fine sieve or a sifter for even coverage. You can also add more crushed peppermint candies for extra flavor and color.

Pro Tips

Chill the Dough: For an even better texture, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape.
Use Fresh Peppermint: For the best flavor, use fresh peppermint candies or crushed candy canes rather than stale ones. This enhances the peppermint taste.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be set but soft in the middle; overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
Perfect Dusting: Use a fine sieve to dust the powdered sugar on the cookies for an even, snowy finish that looks beautiful and festive.

Variations

Chocolate Peppermint Snowball Cookies

Want to add chocolate to your cookies? It’s easy! You can swap out half the flour for cocoa powder. This change gives the cookies a rich chocolate flavor. Then, mix in the peppermint candies as usual. You’ll get a sweet treat that blends mint and chocolate perfectly. These cookies look great dusted with powdered sugar too!

Nut-Free Versions for Allergic Guests

If you have guests with nut allergies, don’t worry. You can still serve delicious cookies! The original recipe is nut-free already. Just ensure that your baking ingredients are also free from nuts. Use a clean bowl and utensils to avoid cross-contamination. This way, everyone can enjoy peppermint snowball cookies safely.

Creative Swaps: Using Different Flavor Extracts

Feel free to get creative with flavors! Instead of peppermint extract, try using almond or vanilla extract. This change gives a new twist to the cookies. You could even mix in lemon or orange zest for a fresh taste. These swaps can make your cookies unique and fun for any holiday gathering.

Storage Info

Best Ways to Store Peppermint Snowball Cookies

To keep your peppermint snowball cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. I find that metal or glass containers work best. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers of cookies. This keeps them from sticking together. Store the cookies at room temperature for up to one week.

How to Freeze Cookies for Later Enjoyment

Freezing cookies is simple and keeps them tasty. To freeze peppermint snowball cookies, first cool them completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about one hour until solid. After that, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you want to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature.

Tips on Keeping Cookies Fresh and Flavorful

To maintain the flavor of your cookies, avoid exposing them to air. If you have leftover cookies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. This extra layer helps keep moisture in. You can also add a slice of bread to the container. This keeps cookies soft for longer. Remember to check your supply and enjoy them while they’re fresh!

FAQs

Can I make Peppermint Snowball Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these cookies ahead of time. You have two options. First, you can prepare the dough and chill it in the fridge for up to three days. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before shaping. Second, bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about a week.

What can I substitute for peppermint extract?

If you don’t have peppermint extract, try using mint extract. It gives a similar flavor. You can also use vanilla extract for a milder taste. If you want a more natural option, consider using crushed mint leaves. Just remember that the flavor will change a bit.

How do I know when cookies are done baking?

To tell if the cookies are done, look for lightly golden edges. The centers will look soft, but they firm up as they cool. You can also gently press a cookie with your finger. If it springs back, it’s ready! Just be careful not to overbake them.

Making Peppermint Snowball Cookies is simple and fun. We covered essential and optional ingredients, along with the tools you need. The step-by-step guide helps you mix, shape, and bake perfect cookies. Use tips to get the best texture and adapt for allergies. Explore variations for chocolate lovers and nut-free guests. Lastly, you learned how to store and freeze cookies for freshness.

Enjoy indulging in this festive treat that brings joy to every bit

$You need some key items to make peppermint snowball cookies. Here’s what to gather: - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon peppermint extract - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup cornstarch - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (or candy canes) These ingredients blend together to create a soft, buttery cookie with a minty twist. To give your cookies a special touch, you can add some optional items: - A pinch of cocoa powder for a chocolatey flavor - Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch - A drop of food coloring for a festive look These extras can make your cookies unique and fun for the holidays. To bake these cookies, you’ll need some basic tools: - Baking sheet - Parchment paper - Large mixing bowl - Whisk for mixing dry ingredients - Cookie scoop or spoon for shaping dough - Wire rack for cooling Having the right equipment makes baking easier and more enjoyable. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by getting your area ready. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your cookies bake evenly. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps the cookies not stick. Gather all your ingredients. Having everything in one spot makes baking easier. In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of softened unsalted butter. Then, mix in 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Beat them together until the mix is light and fluffy. Add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Mix until everything blends well. In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your butter mixture. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies. Ensure they spread evenly in the dough for bursts of flavor. Now, it's time to shape the cookies. Use your hands to form the dough into 1-inch balls. Place these balls on your lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should look lightly golden while the centers remain soft. After baking, let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, dust them with extra powdered sugar. This makes them look like snowy treats, perfect for the holidays! To make your cookies soft and melt-in-your-mouth, use room temperature butter. Cream it well with powdered sugar. This step adds air, making them fluffy. Mix the dry ingredients gently. Overmixing can make cookies tough. When you bake, check for light golden edges. They should look soft but will firm up as they cool. If you have allergies, you can swap the butter for a dairy-free version. Use coconut oil or a vegan butter. For a gluten-free option, try almond flour or a gluten-free blend. You can also replace peppermint extract with vanilla for a milder taste. Just adjust the amount to your liking. Dusting with powdered sugar gives the cookies a lovely snowy look. Wait until the cookies cool completely. If they are warm, the sugar will melt. Use a fine sieve or a sifter for even coverage. You can also add more crushed peppermint candies for extra flavor and color. Pro Tips Chill the Dough: For an even better texture, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape. Use Fresh Peppermint: For the best flavor, use fresh peppermint candies or crushed candy canes rather than stale ones. This enhances the peppermint taste. Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be set but soft in the middle; overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Perfect Dusting: Use a fine sieve to dust the powdered sugar on the cookies for an even, snowy finish that looks beautiful and festive. {{image_2}} Want to add chocolate to your cookies? It’s easy! You can swap out half the flour for cocoa powder. This change gives the cookies a rich chocolate flavor. Then, mix in the peppermint candies as usual. You’ll get a sweet treat that blends mint and chocolate perfectly. These cookies look great dusted with powdered sugar too! If you have guests with nut allergies, don’t worry. You can still serve delicious cookies! The original recipe is nut-free already. Just ensure that your baking ingredients are also free from nuts. Use a clean bowl and utensils to avoid cross-contamination. This way, everyone can enjoy peppermint snowball cookies safely. Feel free to get creative with flavors! Instead of peppermint extract, try using almond or vanilla extract. This change gives a new twist to the cookies. You could even mix in lemon or orange zest for a fresh taste. These swaps can make your cookies unique and fun for any holiday gathering. To keep your peppermint snowball cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. I find that metal or glass containers work best. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers of cookies. This keeps them from sticking together. Store the cookies at room temperature for up to one week. Freezing cookies is simple and keeps them tasty. To freeze peppermint snowball cookies, first cool them completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about one hour until solid. After that, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you want to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature. To maintain the flavor of your cookies, avoid exposing them to air. If you have leftover cookies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. This extra layer helps keep moisture in. You can also add a slice of bread to the container. This keeps cookies soft for longer. Remember to check your supply and enjoy them while they’re fresh! Yes, you can make these cookies ahead of time. You have two options. First, you can prepare the dough and chill it in the fridge for up to three days. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before shaping. Second, bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about a week. If you don’t have peppermint extract, try using mint extract. It gives a similar flavor. You can also use vanilla extract for a milder taste. If you want a more natural option, consider using crushed mint leaves. Just remember that the flavor will change a bit. To tell if the cookies are done, look for lightly golden edges. The centers will look soft, but they firm up as they cool. You can also gently press a cookie with your finger. If it springs back, it’s ready! Just be careful not to overbake them. Making Peppermint Snowball Cookies is simple and fun. We covered essential and optional ingredients, along with the tools you need. The step-by-step guide helps you mix, shape, and bake perfect cookies. Use tips to get the best texture and adapt for allergies. Explore variations for chocolate lovers and nut-free guests. Lastly, you learned how to store and freeze cookies for freshness. Enjoy indulging in this festive treat that brings joy to every bite.$