Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Their buttery texture combined with the comforting aroma of cinnamon makes them perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy nights at home. With a snowy coating of cinnamon-spiced powdered sugar, these cookies not only taste amazing but also look festive on any dessert table.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: These cookies require simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making them perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of butter and cinnamon creates a rich, warm flavor that is sure to please anyone who takes a bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether itβs a holiday party or an afternoon treat, these cookies fit right in.
- Customizable Texture: Add finely chopped nuts for an extra crunch or leave them out for a classic version.
- Beautiful Presentation: The snowy coating of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance to your cookie platter.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect batch of Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, youβll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your baking process and ensure success.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Cookie scoop
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without spills.
- Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents cookies from sticking.
- Parchment paper: Using parchment paper makes cleanup easy and helps prevent the cookies from sticking to the pan.

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 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts
For Rolling
- Extra cinnamon and powdered sugar
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract, mixing 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)
Fold in finely chopped nuts if desired for added texture in your cookies.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop 1-inch balls of dough onto the sheet, placing them about an inch apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown.
Step 5: Roll in Sugar Mixture
While warm, roll each cookie in a mixture of powdered sugar and cinnamon. Once cooled, roll again to add an extra festive snowy coating.
Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies!
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether youβre hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a cozy night at home, these cookies can be paired with several delicious accompaniments.
With a Cup of Tea
- A warm cup of chamomile or chai tea enhances the comforting flavors of the cookies, making for a relaxing afternoon snack.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange these cookies alongside other holiday treats like gingerbread men and peppermint bark for an inviting dessert spread.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pairing the cookies with slices of fresh apples or pears adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet, buttery taste.
With Ice Cream
- Top a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream with crushed snowball cookies for an indulgent dessert.
In Holiday Gift Baskets
- Package the cookies in decorative boxes with other homemade goodies as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
To achieve the best results with your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, consider these helpful tips:
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Use room temperature butter: This ensures better creaming with sugar, resulting in light and fluffy cookies.
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Donβt overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined helps maintain the tender texture of the cookies.
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Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes before baking can make it easier to handle and help prevent spreading.
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Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be just golden on the bottoms for optimal texture.
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Double coat in sugar: Rolling them in powdered sugar while warm and again after cooling provides that perfect snowy finish.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:
- Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy hot chocolate complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
- Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad provides a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory balance next to sweet treats.
- Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and a hint of saltiness that pairs well with sweet cookies.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a deliciously creamy side that contrasts well with cookie textures.
- Coffee: A strong cup of coffee enhances the warming spices in the cookies, making for a cozy treat pairing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, even the smallest misstep can affect your results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
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Bold Measurement Errors: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially for flour and sugar, to avoid dry or overly wet dough.
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Bold Skipping Chilling Time: If you rush the chilling process, your cookies may spread too much in the oven. Allow the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking for perfect texture.
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Bold Not Preheating the Oven: Be sure to preheat your oven fully before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that desired golden brown bottom.
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Bold Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies tender. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough texture instead of a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
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Bold Ignoring Baking Times: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Ovens can vary, so check them a minute or two early to prevent overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They can last up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag; they will keep well for up to three months.
Reheating Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and warm cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individually on low power for about 10-15 seconds for a soft cookie.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, just until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, weβve got answers!
How do I make Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure itβs designed for baking to get the best results.
Can I add chocolate chips to my Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies?
Absolutely! You can fold in chocolate chips along with nuts for added flavor and texture.
What is the best way to store Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute; however, it may slightly alter the taste and texture of your cookies.
How long do Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies last?
When stored properly, they can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months if frozen.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile. With their buttery texture and sweet cinnamon flavor, they are perfect for any occasion or holiday celebration. Feel free to customize these cookies by adding nuts or chocolate chips according to your taste preferences!
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
Indulge in the sweet, buttery goodness of Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookiesβa delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a warm cinnamon flavor, these cookies are beautifully coated in spiced powdered sugar, making them an inviting addition to your dessert table. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies will bring joy and warmth to your home. Plus, with simple ingredients and easy steps, even novice bakers can whip up this festive favorite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- 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 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Cream the softened butter and powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- If desired, fold in finely chopped nuts for added texture.
- Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop 1-inch balls of dough onto the sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown.
- While warm, roll each cookie in a mixture of powdered sugar and cinnamon. Once cooled, roll again for an extra festive snowy coating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
