Name: Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (Softened to room temperature); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (For sweetness and texture); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (Adjust based on taste); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 teaspoon Green Food Coloring (Optional for festive color); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Measured using the spoon and level method); ¼ teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor); 1 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (Can substitute with regular chips); 1 cup Extra Powdered Sugar (For coating cookies)

As the first snowflakes begin to fall, the kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the spirit of the season. That’s the moment I love to whip up a batch of Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies. These easy-to-make festive treats combine a buttery sweetness with a refreshing peppermint kick, giving a nod to my favorite mint chocolate chip ice cream. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and a classic powdered sugar coating, they’re perfect for cookie exchanges or holiday gatherings. Plus, these cookies come together quickly—no chilling required—and you can easily adjust the mint intensity to suit your taste. Ready to try these delightful little bites of joy that bring all the festive feels? Let’s get baking!

Why are These Cookies a Must-Bake?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a delicious balance of buttery goodness and refreshing mint that’ll remind you of a classic holiday favorite!

Quick and Easy: With no chilling required, these cookies come together in just minutes, making them perfect for last-minute baking.

Customizable Delight: Want your cookies a bit greener or mintier? Adjust easily with food coloring and peppermint extract to fit your festive mood!

Pure Crowd-Pleasers: Ideal for cookie exchanges, these treats are sure to impress your family and friends. They’ll keep coming back for more!

Be sure to check out my recipe for Turkey Sugar Cookies for another festive treat, or try out some delightful Bake Cookies Chocolate to mix things up this season!

Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these festive delights!

For the Cookie Dough

Butter – Ensures a rich and tender texture; remember to soften it to room temperature for the best results.
Powdered Sugar – Adds the ideal sweetness and contributes to the cookies’ soft and crumbly texture.
Peppermint Extract – Imparts that refreshing mint flavor; adjust the amount to fit your taste, but be cautious as it can be quite potent.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile, adding balance to the overall sweetness.
Green Food Coloring (optional) – Offers a fun festive touch; or use matcha powder for a natural color, though it may impart a slight flavor.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides essential structure; make sure to measure correctly using the spoon and level method to avoid dense cookies.
Salt – Enhances flavor, balancing the sweetness nicely.
Mini Chocolate Chips – Adds that rich chocolatey goodness; consider substituting with regular chips or chopped chocolate for better distribution.

For Rolling

Extra Powdered Sugar – Coating these cookies while warm creates that delectable sugary finish that you won’t want to miss!

Now you’re ready to mix and bake your Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies! Dive into the fun of creating these festive treats, and let the holiday spirit fill your kitchen.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This simple step ensures your Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies will bake evenly and release effortlessly once done.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of powdered sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes. Aim for a light and fluffy texture with a pale color, which indicates that the mixture is aerated and ready for the next step.

Step 3: Add Extracts and Food Coloring
Add in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and if desired, a few drops of green food coloring. Mix this on low speed until fully incorporated, ensuring the flavor of the peppermint shines through without overpowering. The food coloring will give your cookies a festive look, so have fun with it!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter-sugar mixture while mixing on low speed. This prevents overmixing, preserving the tender texture of your Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies. Mix just until combined, and no dry flour remains visible.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips using a spatula to ensure an even distribution throughout the dough. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to tough cookies. The chocolate chips will add delicious bursts of flavor in each bite of your festive treats!

Step 6: Shape Cookies
With clean hands, scoop out about 1-inch portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place these dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading as they bake. This step shapes your Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies for a uniform look and texture.

Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the bottoms should be lightly golden, while the tops may still appear slightly underbaked. This ensures a soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookie texture that’s characteristic of snowball cookies.

Step 8: Cool and Roll
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. While they are still warm, roll them in additional powdered sugar to create a delightful sweet coating. For an extra sugary finish, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack and roll them in powdered sugar again before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Alternatively, shape the cookie dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months—just be sure to space them out on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful treats, bake directly from frozen for a few extra minutes, and you’ll have fresh cookies that are just as delicious as when they were first made!

How to Store and Freeze Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps their melt-in-your-mouth texture intact while preserving the delightful sweetness.

Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving to restore that lovely soft texture.

Freezer: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving for the best taste experience.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, pop the cookies in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This quick reheating enhances the chocolate flavor and makes them wonderfully cozy!

Expert Tips for Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature, not melted, for the best texture and flavor in your cookies.
Measuring Flour: Use the spoon and level method for flour to avoid dense cookies; too much flour can lead to dryness.
Peppermint Control: Start with a small amount of peppermint extract; it’s potent, so adjust gradually according to your taste preferences.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix dough just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Gentle folding is key for perfect snowballs!
Preserve Coating: Store cookies in an airtight container layered with parchment paper to maintain that lovely powdered sugar coating.

What to Serve with Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

As you whip up a batch of these delightful cookies, consider pairing them with treats that enhance their festive flavor and signature sweetness.

Rich Hot Chocolate: Sipping on warm hot chocolate complements the cookies’ minty freshness, creating a wonderfully cozy experience. Add a drizzle of peppermint syrup for a festive touch!
Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the crumbly cookies, providing a delightful balanced dessert.
Christmas Fruit Salad: A zesty fruit salad with citrus and berries adds a refreshing burst of flavor, offering a lighter contrast to the cookies’ sweetness. The vibrant colors also brighten up any holiday table.
Chocolate Drizzle: A simple chocolate drizzle over the cookies takes them to the next level. This adds extra richness and a touch of elegance for any holiday gathering.
Nutty Biscotti: Serve with a side of nutty biscotti for an added crunch. The flavors harmonize well, making every bite a bit different and exciting.
Peppermint Tea: A warm cup of peppermint tea enhances the mint flavor while offering a soothing sip to enjoy alongside your cookies, perfect for chilly holiday evenings.

Indulge in these pairings and elevate your Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies into a full festive experience.

Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these festive treats, adding your personal touch for a delightful twist!

Mint Intensity: Adjust the peppermint extract from 1/2 to 1 1/2 teaspoons based on your minty preference. Experiment with different levels to find your happy balance!
Chocolate Swaps: Try swapping mini chocolate chips for standard chocolate chips or white chocolate. Each option offers a unique flavor that will delight your senses.
Food Coloring Alternatives: For a natural vibe, use matcha powder as a green coloring agent or simply leave the cookies uncolored for a classic look.
Nutty Addition: Add a 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a great crunch! This twist adds both flavor and texture, giving your cookies a heartfelt touch.
Coconut Flair: Mix in some unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist that complements the mint beautifully. It adds a fun texture and unexpected flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for just a hint of heat. It’s an adventurous way to amplify the flavor profile!
Lower Sugar Option: Substitute half of the powdered sugar with a sugar alternative to decrease the sweetness while still maintaining a deliciously tender texture.
Dipped Delights: After rolling in powdered sugar, dip the cookies in melted chocolate for an extra level of indulgence. This creates a luxurious treat sure to impress!

As you explore these variations, don’t forget to admire how your Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies can transform for different palates and occasions. You might also enjoy creating delightful Bake Cookies Chocolate or try festive Turkey Sugar Cookies to spread joy during the holiday season!

Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right mint extract?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint extract, opt for pure extracts rather than imitation ones for a more authentic flavor. Look for a colorless option for a clean taste, and adjust the amount based on your preference—start with 1 teaspoon and taste the dough before adding more.

How should I store Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, place them in the refrigerator where they can stay good for about 1 week. Just bring them back to room temperature, and they’ll be as delightful as day one!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! Freezing is a fantastic way to extend their shelf life. After baking and cooling the cookies completely, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
Very! If your dough seems too dry and crumbly, it might be due to over-measuring the flour. Try adding a teaspoon of softened butter or a splash of milk to bring it together. Remember to mix gently; a crumbly texture can also be improved by ensuring your butter is adequately softened beforehand!

Are these cookies safe for pets or allergies?
While Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat for us, they are not suitable for pets, especially dogs, due to the chocolate content. If you’re baking for someone with food allergies, ensure to substitute any ingredients as needed, such as using gluten-free flour or dairy-free butter options to make it safe for their dietary restrictions.

What if the cookies come out too flat?
If your cookies spread too much during baking, double-check that your butter was softened (but not melted!) before mixing. Also, ensure you’re measuring flour accurately using the spoon and level method, as too little flour can lead to a flatter cookie. If you encounter this, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help them maintain their shape.