Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Name: Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup finely chopped nuts (optional); 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt; Extra cinnamon and powdered sugar for rolling

Published: October 1, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe features simple steps that make baking fun for all skill levels.
Buttery Flavor: The rich taste of butter combined with aromatic cinnamon creates an irresistible flavor profile.
Festive Presentation: The snowy layer of powdered sugar gives these cookies a beautiful holiday look.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for winter gatherings, gift-giving, or enjoying with a warm beverage.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts for an extra crunch or leave them out for a classic version.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools. These tools will help you achieve the best results in your baking endeavor.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients without spills.
Electric mixer: This tool ensures that the butter and sugar blend smoothly, creating the perfect cookie dough texture.
Baking sheet: A quality baking sheet allows even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.
Parchment paper: Using parchment paper makes cleanup easy and prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet.

Ingredients

For the Dough

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup finely chopped nuts (optional)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt

For Coating

Extra cinnamon and powdered sugar for rolling

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until smooth.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 3: Add Nuts (Optional)

If you desire some texture in your cookies, fold in finely chopped nuts at this stage.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out 1-inch balls of dough and place them about an inch apart on the sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown.

Step 5: Roll in Sugar Mixture

While the cookies are still warm, roll each one in a mixture of powdered sugar and cinnamon. Once they have cooled completely, roll them again to achieve that perfect snowy coating.

Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies at any gathering or as a sweet treat just for yourself!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are delightful on their own, but there are many creative ways to serve them that can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some ideas to inspire you!

With a Warm Beverage

Hot Cocoa: Pair these cookies with a rich cup of hot cocoa for a classic winter treat.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai complement the cinnamon flavor of the cookies, creating a cozy combination.

At Holiday Gatherings

Cookie Platter: Arrange your snowball cookies on a festive platter along with other holiday sweets for a stunning presentation.
Gift Boxes: Package cookies in decorative boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.

As an Ice Cream Topping

Crushed Cookie Topping: Crush the cookies and sprinkle them over vanilla or chocolate ice cream for added texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

To ensure your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies come out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies maintain their shape.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and spices are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping it directly to avoid packing it down, which can lead to dry cookies.
Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies near the end of baking; they should be lightly golden on the bottom but still soft on top.
Double Roll in Sugar: For extra sweetness, roll the warm cookies in cinnamon sugar first, let them cool slightly, then roll again for a snowy finish.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Consider these delightful options!

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is a perfect complement to the warm spices in the cookies.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can balance the sweetness of the cookies nicely.
Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which contrast beautifully with the sugary sweetness.
Nut Mix: A simple blend of roasted nuts adds crunch and pairs well with cookie textures.
Coffee or Espresso: Serve strong coffee or espresso to cut through the sweetness while enhancing flavors.
Chocolate Fondue: Offer a chocolate fondue dip alongside; guests can enjoy dipping pieces of cookie for an indulgent treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for when making Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.

Bold ingredient measurements – Be precise with your measurements. Using too much flour or butter can affect the cookie’s texture and flavor. Always use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
Bold skipping the chilling step – Some recipes might suggest chilling the dough. Neglecting this step can result in cookies that spread too much while baking. If specified, chill the dough for better shape and texture.
Bold overbaking the cookies – Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Aim for a light golden bottom and remove them from the oven promptly.
Bold not rolling in sugar correctly – Make sure to coat the cookies well in powdered sugar after baking. A proper coating will enhance the sweetness and create that signature snowball appearance.
Bold using stale nuts – If you choose to add nuts, ensure they are fresh. Stale nuts can diminish the flavor of your cookies. Store nuts properly and check their freshness before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies in an airtight container.
They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag.
They can be frozen for up to three months. Remember to label them!

Reheating Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave – Heat individually on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
Stovetop – Use a non-stick skillet over low heat; cover briefly until warmed through, but avoid browning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have questions about making perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies. Here are some common queries:

Can I use different nuts in my Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies?

You can certainly experiment with various types of nuts! Almonds, walnuts, or pecans all make great additions, depending on your taste preference.

How long do Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies can last up to one week in the refrigerator or up to three months in the freezer.

Can I make Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes them perfect for holiday gatherings!

What if I don’t have powdered sugar?

If you’re out of powdered sugar, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar in a blender until finely ground. Just ensure it’s smooth enough for rolling!

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! They are perfect for any festive occasion or even just as a treat during chilly nights at home. Feel free to customize them by adding different nuts or adjusting the amount of cinnamon based on your taste preference. Give this delightful recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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