Hey, friend! Ever pop a cookie in your mouth that’s so buttery and minty it feels like a winter breeze wrapped in a chocolatey hug? Say hello to mint chocolate chip snowball cookies, a festive treat that’s like a peppermint patty and a snowball had a delicious baby. I brought these to a holiday cookie swap last month, and they vanished faster than my Wi-Fi during a snowstorm! Ready to bake a batch that’ll make your kitchen smell like a minty dream? Let’s get rolling!
Why These Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Are a Total Winner
So, what’s the hype with these cookies? They’re not just cookies—they’re buttery, melt-in-your-mouth gems bursting with cool mint and chocolatey goodness. I mean, who can resist that snowy powdered sugar coating? Here’s why this recipe rocks:
- Super Quick: Done in 35 minutes, perfect for holiday parties or cozy nights.
- Festive Vibes: Mint and chocolate chips scream winter cheer.
- Stunning Look: Powdered sugar creates that iconic snowball effect.
- Shareable: Ideal for gifting, cookie swaps, or sneaking a treat.
Ever wonder why mint and chocolate are such a power duo? It’s that refreshing, creamy contrast that makes these snowball cookies a star.
The Magic of Mint and Snowball Charm
The stars here are mint extract and mini chocolate chips, which blend into a tender cookie with a snowy, sugary finish. Butter delivers that melt-in-your-mouth texture, while powdered sugar gives the classic snowball look. I once overdid the mint extract and ended up with toothpaste vibes—trust me, a little goes a long way! It’s like a winter candy shop in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Alright, let’s talk ingredients. This recipe uses pantry staples to create that gourmet, minty flavor. Here’s what you’ll grab:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar (plus ½ cup for coating)
- 1 tsp mint extract
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup mini chocolate chips
- Optional: 1-2 drops green food coloring for a festive hue 🙂
- Optional: 2 tbsp crushed peppermint candies for topping
Substitutions That Work
No mint extract? Peppermint extract works, but use ½ tsp to avoid overpowering, IMO. Out of mini chocolate chips? Chop regular chocolate chips for a similar effect. Want it gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour with a 1:1 ratio. The key is that mint-chocolate vibe, so don’t skip the mint or chips!
Step-by-Step: How to Make Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Ready to bake? This is so easy, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Here’s how to nail it:
Step 1: Prep the Dough
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and ¾ cup powdered sugar in a large bowl until fluffy.
- Add mint extract, vanilla extract, and green food coloring (if using), mixing well.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Whisk flour and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips gently to distribute evenly.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
- Scoop dough into 1-tbsp balls and roll into smooth spheres.
- Place 2 inches apart on baking sheets.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes until set but not browned.
Step 4: Coat and Serve
- Cool cookies for 5 minutes, then roll in ½ cup powdered sugar while warm.
- Cool completely on a wire rack, then roll in powdered sugar again for that snowy look.
- Sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies if using, and serve!
Pro tip: I once used too much mint extract, and my cookies tasted like a dental visit gone rogue. Stick to 1 tsp mint extract for that perfect minty balance!
Tips for Nailing Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Wanna make these cookies next-level? Here are my go-to tricks:
- Measure Mint Carefully: Use 1 tsp mint extract to keep the flavor refreshing.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix dough just until combined for a tender texture.
- Double-Coat with Sugar: Roll in powdered sugar twice for that snowball effect.
- Use Mini Chips: Mini chocolate chips blend better than larger ones.
- Bake Just Right: Pull cookies out when set for a buttery bite.
Ever wonder why snowball cookies feel so festive? It’s that snowy coating and minty-chocolate kick that make these cookies a total hit.
Variations to Mix It Up
Bored of the classic? Try these twists to keep things fresh:
Mocha Mint Snowball Cookies
Add 1 tsp instant coffee to the dough for a coffee-mint twist.
White Chocolate Mint Snowball Cookies
Swap mini chocolate chips for white chocolate chips for a sweeter vibe.
Nutty Mint Snowball Cookies
Mix in ¼ cup chopped pecans for a crunchy contrast.
Vegan Mint Snowball Cookies
Use vegan butter and skip food coloring for a plant-based version.
Storing and Reusing Like a Pro
Got leftovers? You’re in luck! Here’s how to keep those cookies fresh:
- Storing: Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls or baked cookies for up to 3 months.
- Reusing: Warm in the oven at 325°F for 5 minutes to revive softness.
I’ve turned leftover cookies into a festive parfait with whipped cream, and it was a total game-changer. Keep them airtight for that minty, snowy vibe!
FAQs About Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Got questions? I’ve got you covered. Here’s what folks usually ask:
Can I use peppermint extract?
Yup! Use ½ tsp peppermint extract to avoid a too-strong flavor.
Why are my cookies crumbly?
You might’ve overbaked or used too much flour. Measure carefully.
Can I make these ahead?
Totally! Prep dough up to 2 days ahead and bake when ready.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Check your chocolate chips too!
What’s a good pairing for these?
These cookies shine with hot cocoa, coffee, or peppermint tea. I love them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra decadence.
Related Recipes:
- Lemon Lush Cake Recipe
- Blueberry Crinkle Cookies: Easy, Soft, and Fruity Recipe
- Chocolate Covered Strawberry Ice Cream Cake Recipe
- White Chocolate Blackberry Poke Cake Recipe
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it—mint chocolate chip snowball cookies, the ultimate buttery, minty treat with a festive, snowy charm. It’s like a winter holiday in cookie form, perfect for cookie swaps, gifting, or cozy nights by the fire. Whether you’re sticking to the classic or adding your own spin, these cookies deliver big on flavor with minimal effort. Grab your mint extract, fire up the oven, and get ready for a batch that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. What’s stopping you from baking these tonight? 🙂
Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies: Easy, Buttery Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- ⅔ cup powdered sugar plus extra for coating
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon mint extract
- Green food coloring optional
- ¾ cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in flour, salt, and mint extract until just combined.
- Add green food coloring until desired color is reached; stir in mini chocolate chips.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls and place on baking sheet.
- Chill dough balls in fridge for 30 minutes.
- Bake for 7-8 minutes until edges are lightly browned.
- Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then roll in powdered sugar while warm.
- Let cookies cool completely and roll again in powdered sugar to coat fully.
Notes
- Use gel food coloring for best results.
- Chill dough to prevent spreading during baking.
- Double roll in powdered sugar for classic snowball look.
DID YOU MAKE THIS EASY RECIPE?
If you have, then share it with us by sending a photo. We’re excited to see what you’ve made
