Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion! These cookies bring a warm, inviting flavor with every bite, making them ideal for holiday gatherings, cozy nights by the fire, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and snowy cinnamon coating set them apart as a festive favorite that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect even for beginner bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery dough and warm cinnamon creates a comforting taste that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday parties, gift-giving, or just a sweet snack at home.
• Customizable: Add your choice of nuts for extra crunch or keep them nut-free to suit everyone’s preferences.
• Festive Appearance: The snowy coating of powdered sugar makes these cookies visually appealing and perfect for celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, gather a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to comfortably combine all your ingredients without mess.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: These tools save time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
• Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet ensures even baking, preventing burnt bottoms while achieving the perfect golden brown color.

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 Rolling

• Extra cinnamon
• 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 and mix until smooth.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Add Nuts (Optional)

Fold in finely chopped nuts if desired. This adds an enjoyable crunch to your cookies.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop 1-inch balls of dough onto the prepared sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking!

Step 6: Roll in Cinnamon Sugar

While warm, roll each cookie in a mixture of powdered sugar and cinnamon. Once cooled completely, roll again in the mixture for an extra snowy finish.

Enjoy your delightful Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few simple ideas. Here are some fun and creative ways to enjoy these festive treats.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee for a perfect morning treat.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy them alongside rich hot chocolate for a cozy dessert experience.
• Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea complements the sweet cinnamon flavors beautifully.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Cookies: Include Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies with other holiday cookies for variety.
• Fruit: Add slices of fresh fruit like apples or pears to balance the sweetness.
• Chocolate Dips: Serve with a side of melted chocolate for dipping.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Gift Bags: Package them in cute bags as tasty gifts for friends and family.
• Dessert Table: Display on a dessert table with festive decorations for visual appeal.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

To make sure your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cookies.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking.
• Rotate Baking Sheets: For even baking, rotate your baking sheets halfway through the baking time.
• Double Roll in Sugar: Rolling in powdered sugar while warm and again after cooled creates that desired snowy finish.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the spiced cookies.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sugary treats.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a deliciously creamy counterpoint.
5. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with spices add crunch and a savory note alongside the cookies.
6. Chocolate Fondue: Provide melted chocolate for dipping, making dessert interactive and fun.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, even small errors can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Boldly skip chilling the dough: Not chilling the dough can cause the cookies to spread too much during baking. Always chill for at least 30 minutes to maintain shape.
• Boldly measuring flour incorrectly: Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Boldly overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can make cookies tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Boldly skipping the second roll in sugar: Not rolling in powdered sugar twice means fewer sugary layers. Ensure you roll while warm and again after cooling for that snowy finish.
• Boldly using stale spices: Outdated cinnamon can dull the flavor of your cookies. Always use fresh spices for maximum taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, flipping once, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies?

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are soft, buttery cookies rolled in a mixture of powdered sugar and cinnamon. They have a delightful melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Can I customize the nuts in Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies?

Yes! You can substitute or omit nuts based on your preferences. Pecans or walnuts add great flavor, but they are optional.

How do I know when my Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are done baking?

Look for slightly golden bottoms and firm edges, while the tops remain pale. This indicates they’re ready to come out of the oven!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

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

Why did my cookies spread too much?

Excess spreading is often due to insufficient chilling time or too much butter. Make sure to chill your dough before baking!

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies offer a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that make them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize them with different nuts or even adjust the sweetness level. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy the cozy vibes they bring!