There are certain cookies that instantly transport you to a place of cozy nostalgia. Among them, the classic Snowball Cookie also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies holds a cherished spot. But what happens when you infuse that beloved buttery crunch with the comforting warmth of cinnamon? You get the truly unforgettable Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies. These cookies are a holiday staple, a cozy winter treat, and arguably the perfect bite-sized dessert for any occasion.
Unlike their purely vanilla-powdered counterparts, these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies introduce a depth of flavor that is utterly irresistible. The addition of cinnamon not only complements the nutty, buttery shortbread base but also cuts through the sweetness of the double powdered sugar coating, creating a harmonious balance that keeps everyone reaching for just one more. They possess that perfect texture: tender and crumbly on the inside, wonderfully crisp on the edges, and enveloped in a soft, snowy finish. If you are looking to elevate your holiday baking or simply craving a cookie that is rich in flavor yet simple to execute, you have arrived at the right recipe. Prepare to master the magic of the double roll and bake a batch of these extraordinary treats today!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the few key steps that guarantee success. We’ll guide you through achieving the perfect dough consistency, why temperature is critical, and the non-negotiable step of rolling the cookies twice to maximize that iconic “snowball” appearance. Whether you are a novice baker or a seasoned pro, these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies will become a permanent fixture in your recipe repertoire. Let’s dive into what makes this particular variation a showstopper.
Why You’ll Fall Head Over Heels for These Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
If you’ve ever enjoyed a traditional snowball cookie, you know they offer a unique kind of buttery comfort. However, these specific Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies take that classic experience and turn the flavor dial up to eleven. There are several compelling reasons why this particular adaptation earns top marks and deserves a prime spot in your kitchen.
Firstly, it’s all about the flavor profile. Traditional shortbread cookies rely heavily on butter and nuts, which can sometimes result in a flat taste. By incorporating ground cinnamon directly into the dough, we introduce an aromatic warmth that enhances the toasted notes of the nuts (pecans or walnuts). This subtle spice integration ensures that every single bite, from the core to the crust, carries a complex, inviting flavor. The dough itself becomes a rich, spiced butter cookie base, ready to absorb the final snowy coating.
Secondly, the double coating is truly revolutionary. We don’t just roll these cookies once; we roll them while they are still warm, allowing the powdered sugar and cinnamon mixture to partially melt and adhere tightly to the cookie surface, creating a delicious, sticky, and foundational layer. Then, once they are completely cool, a second, fresh roll gives them that signature, bright white, ultra-fluffy “snowball” look. This technique not only dramatically improves the visual appeal but also ensures a wonderfully intense flavor experience, where the sweet coating melts beautifully on your tongue.
Thirdly, these cookies are incredibly easy to make, even though they look impressively sophisticated. The ingredient list is straightforward, relying on pantry staples: flour, butter, sugar, and nuts. There’s no yeast, no elaborate icing, and minimal fuss. The dough is robust and easy to handle, especially if you opt for the recommended chill time. They are the perfect candidate for batch baking, whether you’re preparing for a cookie exchange, setting up a holiday platter, or simply stocking your freezer for future cravings. The resulting 3 dozen cookies mean plenty to share, or plenty to keep just for yourself!
Finally, these buttery nut cookies offer fantastic longevity. Because they contain very little moisture compared to chewier cookies, they store beautifully in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature, and even longer when frozen. This characteristic makes them ideal for make-ahead baking. Imagine the sheer delight of having a batch of ready-to-eat, spiced Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies waiting for you whenever the mood strikes. They truly are the definition of easy elegance in baking, providing maximum flavor return for minimal effort. The fusion of the traditional shortbread structure with the comforting spice of cinnamon is a winner every time.
Why You Should Try These Festive Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Right Away
If you are accustomed to the standard vanilla-flavored snowball cookies, you might be wondering why you need to branch out to the cinnamon-sugar variation. The answer lies in the dynamic contrast it provides. These cookies offer a sophisticated twist on an established classic, making them instantly interesting and memorable. They transition effortlessly across seasons the warmth of the cinnamon makes them perfect for fall and winter celebrations, yet their light, powdery appearance ensures they are suitable for springtime gatherings too. This versatility is a major win for any busy baker.
The role of the nuts in these cookies cannot be overstated. We call for finely chopped pecans or walnuts, which, when baked into the buttery dough, toast slightly and release an incredible nutty aroma. This rich, earthy flavor is beautifully balanced by the spice in the dough. Pecans lend a slightly sweeter, smoother flavor, while walnuts provide a more pronounced bitterness and crunch. The choice of nut allows you to customize your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies experience, but either way, the texture is vital. They provide the necessary structure and crumbly quality that defines a good snowball cookie.
Furthermore, mastering the art of the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies is a fundamental step in becoming a more confident baker. The recipe teaches key techniques like creaming butter and achieving a perfect crumbly dough consistency. The process of gradually adding dry ingredients to prevent gluten overdevelopment is crucial here. Unlike yeast-based breads or highly leavened cakes, these cookies rely purely on mechanical leavening (air incorporated into the butter) and the quality of the ingredients. Following the instructions meticulously ensures a crisp, tender result rather than a tough or flat cookie. They bake quickly and reliably, giving you fast, satisfying results that are hard to beat.
This recipe is also highly conducive to social events and gifting. These cookies are sturdy enough to travel well, and their beautiful white coating makes them look like delicate, handcrafted treasures. Packaging a dozen of these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies in a festive tin makes for a deeply appreciated, homemade gift. Plus, their small, bite-sized format means they are perfect for sampling alongside other holiday treats, such as homemade gingerbread cookies or rich chocolate fudge. The cinnamon spice offers a necessary counterpoint to sweeter, heavier desserts.
Finally, if you have children or simply enjoy hands-on baking, the rolling process is incredibly fun. It’s a tactile, satisfying task, especially the second roll. Seeing the warm cookies transform from pale yellow discs into elegant, snowy spheres is rewarding. The warmth generated from the oven, combined with the sweet scent of cinnamon and powdered sugar, creates a sensory experience that defines comfort baking. Don’t wait for a special occasion; today is the perfect day to bring the warmth and flavor of these delightful cookies into your home.
Ingredients and Essential Tools for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
Achieving bakery-quality Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies starts with precise measurements and understanding the role of each ingredient. This recipe, while simple, requires high-quality ingredients, especially the butter, which forms the foundation of the shortbread.
Cookie Dough Ingredients: The Buttery Foundation
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure. Too much flour will result in dry, stiff cookies that crumble too easily. The flour provides the structure for these delicate shortbread cookies.
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter, softened to room temperature: This is arguably the most crucial ingredient. The butter MUST be soft enough to cream smoothly but not melted. Room temperature butter (about 68°F/20°C) incorporates air efficiently, leading to a tender crumb. If you use salted butter, omit the added salt in the recipe.
- 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): Used in the dough itself, powdered sugar dissolves more easily than granulated sugar, contributing to the cookies’ smooth texture and preventing graininess.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: A crucial flavor enhancer. Use high-quality pure vanilla extract for the best results, deepening the overall flavor profile of your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (for the dough): This is the secret touch that differentiates this recipe. Ensure your cinnamon is fresh for maximum aroma and warmth.
- 1 cup Finely Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: The nuts provide that signature crunch and rich flavor. They should be finely chopped not pulverized into flour, but certainly smaller than large pieces to ensure they mix evenly and don’t make the cookie balls too large or misshapen. For an even deeper flavor, toast the nuts lightly before chopping. The inclusion of nuts is vital for the texture of these classic buttery cookies.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (if using unsalted butter): Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall buttery flavor.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating: The Snowy Finish
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): The main component for the classic white “snowball” look. We use a generous amount because these cookies are rolled twice.
- 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (for rolling): A higher concentration of cinnamon here ensures the spiced flavor truly shines in the final coating. Whisk this thoroughly with the powdered sugar so the color and flavor are evenly distributed.
Essential Utensils for Success
While this recipe is straightforward, using the right tools ensures a professional finish and makes the process much smoother. Having these items ready minimizes preparation time and maximizes baking efficiency.
Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer:
A stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment is highly recommended. Properly creaming the butter and sugar is key to the cookie’s texture, and a mixer handles this task efficiently. If you are using a hand mixer, ensure your bowl is sturdy and large enough to contain the flour mixture without splashing. Creaming should take about 2 minutes to achieve a light and fluffy texture, which is crucial for these delicate shortbreads.
Baking Sheets and Parchment Paper:
Always line your baking sheets. Parchment paper or silicone baking mats prevent sticking and promote even baking, ensuring the bottoms of your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies don’t brown too quickly. This also makes cleanup significantly easier.
Measuring Cups, Spoons, and Rubber Spatula:
Accuracy is vital in baking. Use dry measuring cups for flour and wet measures for vanilla. A sturdy rubber spatula is essential for scraping down the sides of the bowl and, most importantly, for gently folding in the nuts, preventing overmixing once the flour is added. Overmixing can develop the gluten, leading to tougher cookies.
Small Cookie Scoop (Optional but Recommended):
To ensure uniform size which is vital for even baking a 1-inch cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon capacity) is highly useful. Uniformity guarantees that all your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are perfectly baked at the same time and look professionally made.
Wire Cooling Rack:
Needed after the first roll, the wire rack allows air to circulate around the cookies, ensuring they cool completely before the crucial second coating. Setting them on the rack prevents condensation and keeps the bottom of the cookies crisp.
Shallow Bowls for Rolling:
You will need at least two shallow bowls: one for whisking the dry ingredients and one for the cinnamon sugar coating. Using a wide, shallow dish for the coating makes the rolling process much cleaner and faster. Remember, the coating needs to be mixed well so the cinnamon is uniformly distributed, giving every cookie that beautiful spiced flavor.
Mastering these details ensures that every step, from dough preparation to the final dusting, contributes to a batch of perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies. If you follow these guidelines, success is virtually guaranteed, leading to a deeply satisfying and wonderfully flavorful result.
Detailed Recipe Steps: How to Bake the Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
Baking these nutty, buttery cookies involves simple steps, but precision is key, especially concerning temperature and timing. Follow these instructions carefully to achieve that classic melt-in-your-mouth texture.
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper oven temperature is crucial for ensuring the cookies set without spreading too much. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Preparing two sheets allows you to keep rolling and baking without waiting for the first batch to finish cooling and be removed. This preparation step sets the stage for efficient baking.
2. Cream the Wet Ingredients
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or using a large bowl and a hand mixer, begin by beating the 1 cup of softened butter. Beat it on medium speed until it is smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 30 seconds to a minute. Gradually add the 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Continue to beat the mixture until it becomes noticeably light, pale yellow, and fluffy this should take about 2 minutes. This step, known as creaming, incorporates air into the butter, which is vital for the cookie’s structure and tender texture. Finally, beat in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until just combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon (for the dough), and 1/2 teaspoon of salt (if using unsalted butter). Whisking ensures these ingredients are evenly distributed, so you don’t end up with pockets of salt or concentrated cinnamon. This spiced flour mixture is what gives the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies their signature aroma.
4. Mix the Dough to Perfection
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Important: Beat on the lowest speed possible until the ingredients are just combined. Stop the mixer immediately when you no longer see streaks of dry flour. The dough will look crumbly, stiff, and slightly dry this is exactly the correct consistency for a shortbread base. Do not overmix. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough, dry, or hard cookies instead of the desirable tender, crumbly ones.
5. Fold in the Nuts
Remove the bowl from the mixer. Using a sturdy rubber spatula, fold in the 1 cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts. Mix only until the nuts are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The dough should still be quite stiff and hold together easily when pressed. If your dough feels excessively dry and won’t hold together, you may need to knead it briefly by hand in the bowl to encourage cohesion, but only for a few seconds.
6. Chill (Optional but Recommended)
If your kitchen is warm or the dough feels very soft and difficult to handle, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. A quick chill time firms up the butter, making the dough easier to roll into perfect, uniform spheres. This is a critical step for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking. Even if your dough seems fine, 15-20 minutes of chilling never hurts.
7. Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into small, uniform balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter (about 1 tablespoon of dough). Uniform size is key to even baking. Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. They do not spread significantly, but leaving enough space ensures they bake evenly on all sides. These small, buttery balls will soon transform into elegant Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.
8. Bake the Cookies
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Watch closely: The key indicator of doneness is the bottom of the cookie, which should be very lightly golden. The tops of the cookies must remain quite pale. They will look soft when they first come out, but they will be fully set and firm upon cooling. Do not overbake, or they will lose their signature tender, melt-away texture.
9. Prepare the First Coating
While the cookies are baking, prepare the coating mixture. In a shallow bowl, combine the 1 cup of powdered sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Whisk until the cinnamon is fully incorporated, creating a light brown, fragrant dusting mix. Set this coating mixture near your cooling rack.
10. Roll While Warm (First Coat)
Remove the baking sheets from the oven. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for just 1 to 2 minutes they must still be very warm, but firm enough to handle without falling apart. Working gently and quickly, roll each cookie in the cinnamon sugar coating until fully covered. The warmth of the cookie allows the powdered sugar to adhere and melt slightly, creating a moist base layer. Set them aside on a wire rack to cool completely. This warm roll is essential for the structure of your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.
11. Roll When Cool (Second Coat)
Once the cookies are completely cooled (about 30 minutes), roll them in the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture one last time. This second, final coating adheres to the set base layer, ensuring the classic, thick, bright white “snowball” appearance and texture. The double coating is what gives these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies their iconic, festive finish. Once coated, they are ready to serve or store.
Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
While the recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies is relatively straightforward, a few key techniques and potential substitutions can elevate your results or adapt the cookies to different dietary needs. Understanding common pitfalls ensures every batch is perfect.
Mastering the Technique: Tips for Perfect Cookies
- The Butter Temperature Rule: As mentioned, proper butter temperature is non-negotiable. If your butter is too cold, the dough will be tough; if it’s too warm or greasy, the cookies will spread excessively in the oven. Aim for soft, pliable butter that holds its shape when pressed.
- Precision Chopping of Nuts: Finely chopped nuts integrate seamlessly into the dough. If the pieces are too large, the dough will struggle to form a cohesive ball, and the cookies may crumble during the warm rolling process. You can gently pulse the nuts in a food processor, but be careful not to create nut butter.
- Don’t Skip the Warm Roll: The first roll while the cookies are warm is the critical step that makes these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies truly special. The slight melting of the powdered sugar creates a sticky layer that locks in the flavor and ensures the second coat adheres beautifully, maximizing the ‘snowball’ effect.
- Troubleshooting: Cookies Spread Too Much: If your cookies spread into flat discs, the butter was likely too warm or you skipped the chill time. Try chilling the dough balls for 15-20 minutes before baking the next batch. You can find more helpful baking tips on our Pinterest board for future reference!
Flavor and Ingredient Variations
The base recipe for these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies is incredibly adaptable:
- Gluten-Free Version: You can successfully substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum. The shortbread texture usually performs very well with GF flour substitutes.
- Nut-Free Adaptation: If you need to avoid nuts, substitute the chopped pecans or walnuts with 1 cup of rolled oats or finely chopped seeds (like sunflower or pumpkin seeds) for texture, though the flavor profile will change slightly. You could also simply omit the nuts and rely solely on the buttery shortbread base.
- Extract Experiments: While vanilla is traditional, you can try substituting part of the vanilla extract with 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract for a marzipan-like sweetness, or 1/4 teaspoon of maple extract for a richer, autumnal flavor.
- Spice Swaps: Want to amplify the holiday feel? Try adding a tiny pinch (1/4 teaspoon) of ground cardamom or nutmeg to the dough along with the cinnamon. For a deeper, almost gingerbread flavor, try including 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves.
- Alternative Coatings: While the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies coating is divine, you could also roll them in a mixture of cocoa powder and powdered sugar for a “Hot Chocolate” snowball flavor, or finely crushed dried coconut mixed with powdered sugar.
Storage and Freezing
These cookies are excellent keepers, making them perfect for advance preparation:
- Storage: Once completely cooled and rolled, store the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. They actually taste better the next day once the flavors have fully melded.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Place cooled, completely coated cookies in a single layer in an airtight freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving. If they lose some of their snowy coating during freezing, give them a quick third roll in fresh powdered sugar.
- Freezing Dough: You can freeze the shaped dough balls before baking. Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag and bake from frozen, adding 2-4 minutes to the total bake time. This is a wonderful way to prep for future cravings, ensuring you always have fresh-baked nutty butter cookies on hand! We also have great freezing tips available in our post on sugar cookie fudge, applicable to many dessert bases.
Nutritional Values and Benefits of Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
When indulging in a cookie like the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, it’s important to understand the components that contribute to its richness and flavor. As a classic shortbread cookie, its nutritional profile is primarily centered around healthy fats and carbohydrates, making it an energy-dense treat perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.
Breakdown of Primary Components (Per Cookie, Estimated)
Since the exact nutritional data depends heavily on the size and type of nut used, these are general estimates for a 1-inch cookie:
- Calories: Approximately 80-100 calories per cookie. The high caloric density comes primarily from the butter and the powdered sugar coating.
- Fats: 6g – 8g. These fats are mostly saturated fat from the butter, but a significant portion comes from the nuts, which contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
- Carbohydrates: 6g – 9g. Primarily derived from the all-purpose flour and the powdered sugar used in the dough and the double coating.
- Protein: 1g – 2g. The protein content is modest but comes mainly from the flour and the inclusion of nuts.
Benefits of Key Ingredients
While these are treats, not health foods, certain ingredients do offer nutritional benefits:
Nuts (Pecans or Walnuts):
The inclusion of 1 cup of chopped nuts provides substantial health benefits. Walnuts, in particular, are famous for their high concentration of Omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain and heart health. Pecans, while slightly sweeter, are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin E, which helps protect cells from damage. The nuts also add a good dose of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, and protein, which helps keep you feeling satisfied. Using pecans or walnuts transforms these cookies from mere sugar confections into more balanced, nutty butter cookies.
Cinnamon:
Beyond providing the exquisite flavor that defines these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, cinnamon is renowned for its medicinal properties. Cinnamon is packed with powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols. Studies suggest cinnamon may have anti-inflammatory effects and may even help modulate blood sugar levels. While the amount consumed in a single cookie is small, the spice contributes significantly to the health profile of the flavorings used.
Butter (Fats):
The use of real butter is essential for the texture. Although high in saturated fat, butter also contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. Consumed in moderation, the fats provide the energy needed for daily activities and help the body absorb the fat-soluble vitamins from other foods. The rich, clean flavor of unsalted butter is critical for achieving the melt-in-your-mouth quality of these shortbreads.
In summary, while these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are an indulgence, the nuts and spices add depth both in flavor and nutritional value. Enjoying them in sensible portions allows you to savor the rich, buttery flavor and the festive cinnamon coating without guilt. They are perfect small doses of joy, especially paired with a warm beverage.
FAQs About Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between snowball cookies, Russian tea cakes, and Mexican wedding cookies?
They are essentially the same cookie, differentiated mainly by regional name or the type of nut used. All three are buttery, nutty shortbread cookies rolled in powdered sugar. The key distinction in this recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies is the crucial addition of cinnamon to both the dough and the outer coating, which adds a warm, spiced flavor not present in the traditional versions.
Why do I need to roll the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies twice?
The double roll is essential for the iconic ‘snowball’ texture. The first roll, done while the cookie is still warm, allows the sugar to melt slightly and form a sticky base layer, locking in moisture and flavor. The second roll, done after the cookie is completely cooled, applies a fresh, thick, snowy white layer, giving the cookies their perfect visual appeal and enhanced sweetness.
Can I use different types of nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute the pecans or walnuts with almonds (for a slight marzipan flavor) or hazelnuts, provided they are finely chopped. Ensure the nuts are raw or lightly toasted before mixing them into the dough base for the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies. The quantity (1 cup) should remain the same to maintain the correct dough consistency.
How should I store these buttery nut cookies?
Store your finished Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Because they are low in moisture, they keep well for up to a week. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as the cold temperature can dry out the cookies and cause the powdered sugar coating to weep or become soggy.
My dough is too crumbly; what went wrong?
A slightly crumbly dough is normal for shortbread, but if it won’t hold together when you press it, your flour measurement might have been too generous. Try adding 1/2 teaspoon of cold milk or water to the dough and mixing it briefly until it barely holds together. Ensure your butter was properly softened before starting the creaming process.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
The journey to creating the perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies culminates in a batch of exquisite, tender, and beautifully spiced treats that are impossible to resist. We have walked through every crucial step, from understanding the necessity of room temperature butter for the ideal shortbread texture to mastering the indispensable technique of the double powdered sugar roll. This cinnamon variation takes an already perfect classic the nutty butter cookie and infuses it with a level of warmth and complexity that truly sets it apart.
These cookies are not just desserts; they are an experience. They melt away in your mouth, leaving behind the rich flavor of toasted nuts, the creamy sweetness of butter, and the aromatic depth of cinnamon. They are incredibly forgiving, hold up beautifully for storage, and are universally loved, making them the ultimate recipe for holiday baking, cookie swaps, or just a quiet afternoon indulgence. Whether you pair them with a cup of coffee or serve them alongside other festive recipes like gooey butter cookies or a slice of pumpkin spice bread, these snowballs steal the show every time.
We encourage you to embrace the simple elegance of this recipe. Pay attention to the details especially the warm roll and you will be rewarded with 3 dozen perfect, snowy spheres of deliciousness. Don’t let another season pass without adding these wonderful Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies to your baking collection. Try the recipe today, share your results, and let us know in the comments how much you adore this spiced twist on a classic favorite! Happy baking!
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Cream the Wet Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Beat in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and salt.
- Mix and Fold: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, beating on low speed until just combined. The dough will be crumbly and stiff. Remove the bowl from the mixer and use a spatula to fold in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts until evenly distributed. Do not overmix.
- Chill (Optional): If your dough is very soft, wrap it in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small, uniform balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter (about 1 tablespoon of dough). Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bottoms are very lightly golden and the cookies are set. They should remain quite pale on top.
- Prepare the First Coating: While the cookies are baking, combine the 1 cup of powdered sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon for the coating in a shallow bowl. Whisk until the cinnamon is fully incorporated.
- Roll While Warm (First Coat): Remove the baking sheets from the oven. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 1 to 2 minutes—they must still be very warm. While warm, gently roll each cookie in the cinnamon sugar coating until fully covered. Set them aside on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Roll When Cool (Second Coat): Once the cookies are completely cooled (about 30 minutes), roll them in the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture one last time. This second coating ensures the classic, thick 'snowball' appearance and texture. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
