Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, melt-in-your-mouth treat to sweeten up your day, look no further than this Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe. These little delights bring together the warmth of cinnamon, the buttery softness of a classic snowball cookie, and a dreamy dusting of cinnamon sugar that makes every bite utterly irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or simply crave a nostalgic comfort cookie, this recipe delivers that perfect balance of simplicity and flavor with every snowy bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe. Thankfully, these ingredients are straightforward, yet each brings its own magic to the flavor and texture — from the creamy softness of butter to the cozy lift of cinnamon.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This gives the cookies their rich, tender base and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds a delicate sweetness that’s smoother than granulated sugar and aids in the silky texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, aromatic flavors that elevate the cinnamon beautifully.
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The structural foundation for these cookies, giving them just the right crumb.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the depth of all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Mixed in the dough for that signature cozy spice throughout each bite.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Used in the coating to add a bit of crackly sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for rolling): The final cinnamon dusting that makes these cookies look like little snowy treats.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with powdered sugar until the mixture turns creamy and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air that helps make the cookies light and tender. Mix in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with that irresistible warm aroma.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl. This ensures the cinnamon is evenly distributed, so every bite offers a consistent taste of that distinct spice.

Step 4: Bring the Dough Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. You’ll end up with a thick dough that’s perfectly pliable for shaping, signaling that you’re on the right track.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, placing them spaced apart on your prepared baking sheet. The size ensures they bake into those delightful little snowballs, perfect for a cozy snack.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, just until the edges start to turn a light golden color. This subtle browning means they’re cooked through but still wonderfully soft inside.

Step 7: Roll in Cinnamon Sugar

While the cookies are still warm, roll each one in a bowl of mixed granulated sugar and additional ground cinnamon. This finishing touch creates a sweet, sparkling coating that adds a delightful crunch and that characteristic snowball look.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a pinch of powdered sugar on top just before serving. You can also add a cinnamon stick alongside each cookie when plating for a charming presentation and an extra burst of cinnamon aroma.

Side Dishes

These cookies are fantastic with a warm cup of chai tea, hot cocoa, or even a glass of cold milk. Their delicate cinnamon flavor pairs beautifully with creamy and spiced beverages, enhancing your cozy snack moments.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking these cookies into a festive tower tied with a rustic ribbon for gift-giving, or serve them in small, decorative tins. You can even sandwich a dollop of cream cheese frosting or chocolate ganache between two cookies for a fun, indulgent twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully cooled, store your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They keep well for up to a week, retaining their tender crumb and that signature cinnamon sugar coating.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these treats later, you can freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving — no need to reheat, and they taste just as delightful!

Reheating

If you prefer your cookies a little warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This revives the soft texture and melts the cinnamon sugar slightly, making them taste freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Absolutely! If you only have salted butter, just reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe to avoid making the cookies too salty. This keeps the flavor balanced and sweet.

How do I store the cinnamon sugar coating for later use?

You can prepare the cinnamon sugar mix ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for several weeks, ready to sprinkle on freshly baked snowball cookies anytime.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make gluten-free Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but keep an eye on the dough’s consistency as it might need a slight adjustment.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough?

While traditional snowball cookies are nut-free and plain, adding finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a lovely texture and flavor. Chocolate chips might change the texture but can be a delicious experiment if you’re feeling creative!

Why do the cookies need to be rolled in cinnamon sugar while warm?

Rolling the cookies in cinnamon sugar while they are still warm allows the sugar to adhere better, forming a slightly crunchy, sweet exterior. If you wait for the cookies to cool, the coating won’t stick as well and the effect will be less pronounced.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe — it’s a timeless classic that brings warmth and sweetness to any moment. Whether it’s a chilly afternoon or a festive gathering, these cookies are always a crowd-pleaser. Give them a try, and I promise you’ll have a hard time sharing these delightful little snowballs!

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