Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies

Buttery, tender, and coated in a snowy layer of powdered sugar, these Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies are a melt-in-your-mouth holiday favorite with a rich cocoa twist. Also known as Mexican wedding cookies or Russian tea cakes, this version brings a deep chocolate flavor and crunchy walnuts into every bite. Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange or just cozying up with a treat, these cookies are simple, nostalgic, and absolutely delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chocolatey Twist – A classic cookie made even better with cocoa.
Perfectly Tender – Buttery, crumbly texture that melts in your mouth.
No Eggs Needed – Great for those with egg sensitivities.
Ideal for Gifting – Stays fresh and travels well.
Freezer-Friendly – Bake ahead for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookies:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1¾ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ tsp salt
¾ cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans
½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for extra chocolate flavor)

For Rolling:
1 cup powdered sugar (for coating)

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowl
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Spatula
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Wire rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and ½ cup powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
4. Mix in vanilla extract.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix just until combined.
3. Fold in chopped nuts and chocolate chips if using.
4. Chill dough for 15–20 minutes if it feels too soft to roll.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

1. Scoop and roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
2. These cookies won’t spread much, so no need to flatten them.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cookies are set but not browned.
2. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 5: Coat with Powdered Sugar

1. While cookies are still slightly warm, roll them gently in powdered sugar.
2. Once fully cooled, roll again for a thick, snowy coating.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Snowball Cookies
Use Soft Butter – It blends easily and gives the cookies their tender texture.
Don’t Overbake – They should be just set—overbaking can dry them out.
Double Dust – Rolling twice in powdered sugar ensures a beautiful, snowy finish.
Add Espresso – A pinch of espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor.
Chill if Needed – Slightly chilled dough is easier to roll into uniform balls.

Serving Suggestions
Serve with hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
Add to a holiday cookie platter with sugar cookies and biscotti.
Gift in a festive tin or mason jar with ribbon.
Enjoy with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Freezing:
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Re-roll in powdered sugar after thawing if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different nuts?
   Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts all work well.
2. Can I make them nut-free?
   Yes—just omit the nuts and add a bit more flour (1–2 tablespoons) to adjust consistency.
3. Can I make them ahead?
   Yes—store in a container or freeze and roll in fresh sugar before serving.
4. Are they supposed to be soft or crunchy?
   They’re tender and slightly crumbly, not chewy or crispy.
5. Can I make these gluten-free?
   Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Texture may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts
These Classic Chocolate Snowball Cookies are the perfect bite of holiday nostalgia with a chocolatey twist. Whether you’re making them for a cookie exchange, holiday tray, or just a cozy day at home, they’re sure to be a favorite. Easy to make, fun to share, and even better to eat—these cookies are a must-have for your seasonal baking lineup.

Bake a batch and share your snowy cookie creations—I’d love to see them dusted in sugar and full of joy!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie):
Calories: 140 | Protein: 2g | Carbohydrates: 13g | Fat: 9g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 40mg

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