Name: Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 0.5 cup powdered sugar (finely sifted); 2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract); 0.25 teaspoon salt (essential for flavor); 0.5 cup powdered sugar (for rolling); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

As I pulled the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies from the oven, the sweet, warm scent enveloped my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy holiday gatherings filled with laughter and joy. This nut-free variation of the classic snowball cookie combines buttery goodness with a hint of cinnamon, making them a perfect treat for your festive celebrations. What I love about these cookies is not only their melt-in-your-mouth texture but also how easy they are to whip up—ideal for novice bakers or anyone pressed for time. Plus, they’re wonderfully versatile; feel free to jazz them up with your favorite add-ins! Who’s ready to create some sweet memories in the kitchen and delight friends and family with these irresistible bites?

What Makes These Cookies Special?

Irresistibly Melt-in-Your-Mouth: Each bite of these cookies is a buttery delight, making them perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Festive Flavors: The warm cinnamon elevates the classic snowball cookie, bringing a joyful twist to your holiday baking.
Simple Preparation: With just a few basic ingredients, these cookies are quick to prepare—ideal for busy moments in the kitchen.
Versatile Enjoyment: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for a personalized touch, or pair them with a warm cup of tea for cozy afternoons.
Family-Friendly Fun: Get your loved ones involved in the baking process, creating sweet memories together while whipping up these delicious treats. Try them alongside Korean Honey Cookies or Almond Cherry Cookies for a delightful cookie platter.

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Ingredients

• Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful cookies:

For the Cookies

Butter – Provides richness and tenderness; use unsalted butter for better control over salt levels.
Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and creates a snow-like appearance; make sure it’s finely sifted for even coating.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; can substitute with gluten-free flour for a nut-free variation.
Cinnamon – Enhances flavor with a warm spice note; adjust to taste or replace with nutmeg for a different twist.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a fragrant sweetness; substitute with almond extract for a unique flavor profile.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor; essential for a well-rounded taste.

For the Coating

Powdered Sugar – Used again to give that charming snowy finish to your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies; remember to roll them while they’re still warm for the best results.
Ground Cinnamon – Mix with powdered sugar for that extra cinnamon kick in the coating; this will enhance the festive flavor of your cookies.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, which will prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This initial step sets the stage for baking the delicious Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, making sure your oven is hot and ready to create that perfect buttery texture.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream these ingredients together on medium speed until the mixture appears light and fluffy, typically about 2-3 minutes. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until well combined. This creamy base is essential for the richness of your cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures an even distribution of flavors and helps to prevent clumping. Gradually add this flour mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until the dough forms. It should be soft but not sticky.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. This step will give your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies their round shape and ensures they bake evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to turn a light golden brown while the centers remain soft. Keeping an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking will help achieve that perfect texture, so don’t wander far from the oven!

Step 6: Coat in Sugar
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. While they’re still warm, roll each cookie in a mixture of 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This will create that delightful snowy coating and infuse the cookies with an extra burst of cinnamon flavor, making your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies even more irresistible.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Indulging in these magical treats is just the beginning of a delightful holiday experience.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich, velvety texture of hot chocolate balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a cozy pairing that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Spiced Chai Tea: This warm, aromatic beverage accentuates the cinnamon flavor in the cookies and offers a comforting touch for holiday gatherings.
Santa’s Favorite Milkshake: Blend up a festive milkshake infused with vanilla and a hint of cinnamon, turning your cookie moment into a nostalgic treat.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with seasonal fruits elevates the sweetness of the cookies while adding a burst of color and zest to your dessert plate.
Pecan Pie: The nutty richness of pecan pie complements the creamy texture of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast that feels like a holiday celebration.
Peppermint Bark: The cool, minty flavor of peppermint bark adds a refreshing twist alongside the warmth of cinnamon, making for a festive flavor journey.
Coffee or Tea: A classic cup of coffee or herbal tea not only enhances your cookie experience but also allows for a moment of relaxation as you savor your treats.
Holiday Punch: This fruity, festive punch will brighten up your dessert table and harmonize beautifully with the cookies’ sweet and spicy notes.
Mini Cheesecakes: The creamy, rich texture of mini cheesecakes gives a sophisticated balance to the melt-in-your-mouth Cookies, perfect for impressing guests.
Gingerbread Men: A whimsical addition, these classic cookies echo the holiday spirit and make for a fun conversation starter on your festive platter.

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful cookies for your own unique twist!

Dried Fruits: Add finely chopped dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a burst of flavor and chewy texture.
Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free flour for all-purpose to ensure everyone can enjoy these cookies safely and deliciously.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the buttery base.
Chocolate Twist: For an indulgent variation, mix in unsweetened cocoa powder in place of some flour to create a rich chocolate flavor.
Almond Extract: Swap out vanilla for almond extract to give your cookies a fragrant almond flavor that really complements the cinnamon.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cookie dough for an unexpected kick of heat that will surprise your taste buds.
Oatmeal Surprise: Replace half the flour with ground oats for a chewier texture and added body, making these cookies hearty.
Flavored Sugar Coating: Change the powdered sugar coating by mixing in cocoa powder or a pinch of orange zest for a zesty take on the classic finish.

Don’t forget, these cookies pair beautifully with other treats like Korean Honey Cookies or Almond Cherry Cookies. Enjoy experimenting!

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are perfect for those busy holiday weeks! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and shaping the cookie balls. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just take them out, let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes, and bake as directed for delightfully fresh cookies. If you want to make them even earlier, you can freeze the shaped cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking for the same delicious, melt-in-your-mouth results!

Storage Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Room Temperature: Store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their buttery softness and snowy appearance.
Fridge: If you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating the cookies to help avoid any moisture build-up, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They will remain fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To refresh the cookies, simply allow them to thaw at room temperature and roll them in a dusting of powdered sugar before serving to enhance their festive appeal.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Accurate Measurements: Use the spoon and level method to measure flour properly; this avoids dense, heavy cookies and ensures the perfect texture.
Cooling Time: Allow cookies to cool for at least 5 minutes before rolling in sugar. This prevents the powdered sugar from melting into the warm cookies.
Watch the Oven: Avoid over-baking! Keep an eye on them and remove the cookies when edges are lightly golden while the centers stay soft for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Personalize Your Batch: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, such as dried fruits or nuts, to change the classic flavor profile of your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies and make them uniquely yours.
Storage Secrets: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for three months. Just remember to recoat in sugar after thawing for that fresh appearance!

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best butter for these cookies?
Absolutely! Use unsalted butter for better control over salt levels and to allow the sweetness of the cookies to shine through. Look for butter that’s fresh and creamy without any discoloration. Trust me, a good quality butter makes a world of difference in the richness of your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.

How should I store my Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you live in a humid climate, refrigerating them may help prevent moisture build-up—just allow them to come to room temperature before serving. This helps retain their delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Can I freeze these cookies, and if so, how?
Yes! You can freeze your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies. Here’s how: First, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, ensuring you separate the layers with parchment paper. They will maintain their deliciousness for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and re-roll in powdered sugar for that fresh, snowy look.

What can I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough feels a bit too sticky, don’t worry! Simply sprinkle a little more flour onto your work surface or into the dough, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Remember not to add too much flour at once, as this may change the texture of your final cookies.

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes! These Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are nut-free, making them a safe choice for those with nut allergies. Just ensure that your baking environment is also free from nut cross-contamination. It’s always best to double-check labels on your ingredients if you’re making them for someone with allergies. Enjoy the sweet moments worry-free!