Description
Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic snowball cookie, featuring a refreshing mint flavor combined with mini chocolate chips and optional crushed peppermint candies. These buttery, tender cookies are rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy finish, perfect for festive occasions or any time you crave a minty, chocolaty treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for rolling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon mint extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add Extracts: Stir in the vanilla extract and mint extract until the mixture is well combined, spreading the flavorful mint throughout the dough.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt, then gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until incorporated to avoid overworking the dough.
- Fold in Mix-ins: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies, if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Shape Cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough into small balls approximately 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the cookie sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to set their shape.
- First Sugar Roll: While the cookies are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar to coat evenly, creating the traditional snowball appearance.
- Cool Completely & Final Coat: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely. For a more pronounced snowy effect, roll the cookies in powdered sugar one more time once fully cooled.
Notes
- For an extra minty burst, add a little extra mint extract but be cautious as it can overpower the other flavors.
- Crushed peppermint candies are optional but add a nice crunch and festive flavor.
- Make sure butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Cookies freeze well, either before or after baking; thaw at room temperature before serving.
