Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or simply treating yourself, these cookies feature a buttery texture and a hint of cinnamon that melts in your mouth. Coated in powdered sugar with a dash of cinnamon, they have an inviting snowy appearance that makes them irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these cookies are quick to whip up.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of butter and cinnamon creates a comforting taste that everyone loves.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays or everyday snacking, they fit any occasion beautifully.
• Customizable: Add nuts for an extra crunch or keep them plain for a classic version.
• Festive Appearance: Their snowy exterior adds a charming touch to your dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on making your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve the perfect fluffy texture when creaming butter and sugar.
• Baking sheet: Provides the surface needed to bake multiple cookies at once without crowding.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

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 Ingredients

• 1 cup finely chopped nuts

For Coating

• Extra cinnamon and powdered sugar for rolling

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. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving the cookies their airy texture. Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 3: Add Nuts (Optional)

If you like some crunch in your cookies, fold in the finely chopped nuts at this stage. They add great flavor and texture.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out 1-inch balls of dough using your hands or a cookie scoop, placing them about an inch apart on the baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown. Keep an eye on them; you want them soft but set.

Step 6: Roll in Cinnamon Sugar

While the cookies are still warm, roll each one in a mixture of powdered sugar and ground cinnamon. Let them cool completely before rolling again to create that beautiful snowy finish.

Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies! They are sure to be a hit at any gathering!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a festive gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies can complement other dishes and drinks beautifully.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the cookies.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy a warm mug of hot chocolate alongside these cookies for an indulgent treat.
• Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea balances the sweetness and adds a comforting touch.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Cookies: Combine with other cookie varieties like chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin for variety.
• Brownies: Pair with fudgy brownies for a delicious contrast in textures.
• Fruit Tart: A fresh fruit tart can add a refreshing element to your dessert spread.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Gift Boxes: Package the cookies in decorative boxes as homemade gifts for friends and family.
• Cookie Exchange: Bring them to a cookie exchange for a festive addition that everyone will love.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

To ensure your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use softened butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar, resulting in light and fluffy cookies.
• Measure flour accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping it directly to avoid dense cookies.
• Chill the dough: If you find the dough too soft, chill it for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape during baking.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be lightly golden on the bottom but still soft on top when removed from the oven.
• Roll while warm: Roll the cookies in cinnamon sugar while they are still warm for better adherence and flavor absorption.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

When serving Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, consider pairing them with some delightful side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing contrast to sweet cookies.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delicious combination with warm cookies.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle chocolate sauce over the cookies or serve it on the side for dipping.
4. Whipped Cream: Light whipped cream offers a fluffy texture that complements the dense cookie.
5. Caramel Sauce: Sweet caramel adds richness and pairs beautifully with cinnamon flavors.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can balance the sweetness and provide an interesting flavor contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Bold Ingredients: Skipping or substituting ingredients without consideration can affect the texture and flavor. Always measure accurately and follow the recipe closely.
• Bold Overmixing Dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a tender result.
• Bold Incorrect Baking Time: Baking for too long can make cookies hard. Keep an eye on them and remove when the bottoms are golden.
• Bold Not Rolling in Sugar Twice: Rolling only once in powdered sugar means missing out on that snowy finish. Be sure to coat them while warm and again when cooled!
• Bold Using Cold Butter: Cold butter won’t cream well, leading to dense cookies. Always use softened butter for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Layer cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, flipping gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.

Can I use different nuts in my Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies?

Yes, you can use any finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts based on your preference!

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

Look for golden brown bottoms; they should not be overly browned on top.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

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

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are delightful treats that bring warmth and comfort during chilly days. Their buttery texture combined with cinnamon creates a sweet indulgence perfect for gatherings or cozy nights. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite nuts or experimenting with spices!