Name: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 102 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract; 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Mini Chocolate Chips; 2 cups Powdered Sugar; 1 teaspoon Optional Green Food Coloring (For a festive touch)

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As I sifted through the powdered sugar, the soft snowflakes reminded me of winter wonderlands and cozy holiday gatherings. These Easy Melt-in-Your-Mouth Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a delightful twist on the nostalgic classic, bringing both a refreshing burst of mint and rich chocolate into each tender bite. Not only are they quick to whip up, making them the ultimate last-minute treat, but they also double as a charming homemade gift that will impress anyone on your holiday list. With their elegant, frosty appearance, these cookies are sure to brighten any festive table. Curious to discover how this scrumptious recipe comes together? Let’s dive in!

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Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?

Melt-in-your-Mouth texture: Each cookie offers a soft and delicate crumb that melts away, making every bite a heavenly experience.

Refreshing Mint Flavor: The combination of peppermint and rich chocolate produces a unique flavor that adds a festive twist to every occasion.

Quick and Easy: These cookies come together swiftly, making them perfect for those last-minute holiday gatherings or unexpected guests.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate or even crush candy canes for an extra festive flair!

Charming Homemade Gift: Pack these delightful cookies in a beautiful box, and you’ve got a thoughtful gift that’s sure to impress friends and family during the holiday season.

Whether you’re pairing them with hot cocoa or serving them on a dessert platter next to your favorite Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches, these Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies will definitely make your celebrations sweeter!

Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Ingredients

For the Batter
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; for a savory twist, use salted butter and reduce added salt.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve the perfect texture; consider reducing for less sweetness.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor complexity; imitation extract works in a pinch.
• Peppermint Extract – Infuses cookies with refreshing minty flavor; can be swapped with vanilla for a milder taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – The key structure ingredient; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness; omit if using salted butter.

Mix-Ins
• Mini Chocolate Chips – Offer delightful pockets of rich chocolate; feel free to mix dark, milk, or white chocolate chips to your liking.

For Coating
• Powdered Sugar – Creates the signature snowy appearance; mix in cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
• Optional Green Food Coloring – Adds fun color, especially around the holidays; omit for a more natural look.

These Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are not only delicious but also a perfect festive treat to warm up any gathering!

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure the cookies don’t stick. This preparation step is crucial, as it guarantees a smooth baking process. As the oven warms up, gather all your ingredients for the Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies, setting yourself up for success.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until well blended, then set this mixture aside. This step helps to evenly distribute the salt throughout the flour, ensuring balanced flavor in your cookies. The light, fluffy texture of the flour will provide the perfect foundation for your cookies.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy, approximately 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential for creating a tender texture in your Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies, as air gets incorporated into the batter.

Step 4: Add Flavorings
Mix in the pure vanilla extract and peppermint extract, allowing their fragrant aromas to infuse the buttery mixture. If you wish to add a fun twist, include a few drops of green food coloring at this stage for a festive touch. The butter mixture will take on a lovely pale color as you combine the ingredients thoroughly.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed to avoid overworking the dough. Stop once the flour is just blended in, maintaining a soft and tender cookie texture. The dough should be slightly sticky but malleable—perfect for shaping into delightful balls.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Using a spatula, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough. This step is crucial, as the chocolate chips will create pockets of rich chocolatey goodness in each bite of your Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cookies light.

Step 7: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Chilling is essential, as it makes the dough easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking. During this time, the flavors will meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your cookies.

Step 8: Shape the Cookies
Once chilled, scoop the dough and roll it into 1-inch balls. Place the dough balls spaced apart on the prepared baking sheets, as they will spread slightly while baking. This step ensures each Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookie has enough room to bake evenly, achieving a delightful golden edge.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain soft and pale, which is characteristic of these melt-in-your-mouth treats. Keep an eye on them, as overbaking can lead to a drier texture.

Step 10: Coating with Powdered Sugar
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before rolling them in powdered sugar while they’re still warm. This initial coating creates a snowy appearance that perfectly complements the Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies. After they cool completely, dip them again for an extra snowy finish.

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Make Ahead Options

These Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Alternatively, for even longer storage, shape the dough into balls and freeze them for up to one month. To prevent the mint flavor from diminishing, keep the dough in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen cookie balls directly onto a baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy fresh, melt-in-your-mouth cookies anytime with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

As you savor the enchanting flavors of these delightful cookies, consider pairing them with complementary dishes and drinks to elevate your festive experience.

Rich Hot Cocoa: Perfectly decadent, a warm cup of hot cocoa with whipped cream or marshmallows enhances the minty chocolate experience beautifully. The indulgent richness contrasts beautifully against the lighter texture of the cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoops of creamy vanilla ice cream create a dreamy dessert duo, balancing the refreshing mint and adding a soothing chill to each bite.
Fresh Berries: A side of plump, juicy strawberries or raspberries adds a vibrant touch, providing a tart contrast to the sweet, rich cookies.
Minty Tea: Brewed peppermint tea offers a soothing, aromatic sip that mirrors the mint flavor in the cookies, creating a harmony of flavors that’s utterly comforting.
Chocolate Milk: For a nostalgic treat, serve mini glasses of chocolate milk alongside your cookies. The creamy texture and chocolatey goodness make for a delightful sip.
Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavor of a freshly brewed espresso or coffee cuts through the richness of the cookies, highlighting the mint and chocolate notes in delightful contrast.
Mini Fruit Tarts: These light, fruity bites provide a refreshing palate cleanser and a splash of color that brightens up your dessert table.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side adds a luxurious touch, enhancing the cookies’ delicate, snowy frosting for an elegant finish.
Homemade Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits will offer a refreshing textural contrast, cleansing the palate and making the sweets even more enjoyable.

Delight your guests by pairing these Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies with any of these scrumptious sides and drinks for a memorable holiday gathering!

Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists to customize your cookies!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a creamy texture without any dairy. You’ll still enjoy that melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. Your guests won’t even notice the difference!
Mint-Free: Swap peppermint extract with almond or vanilla extract for a simple yet flavorful variation. It creates a warm, comforting cookie that’s just as delightful.
Chocolate Variation: Blend dark and milk chocolate chips for a rich combination that satisfies every chocolate lover. This twist adds depth and complexity to each bite.
Festive Topping: Crush candy canes and sprinkle them on top before baking for a cheerful Christmas touch. It not only enhances flavor but also looks festive!
Cocoa-Dusted: Instead of rolling in powdered sugar, roll the cooled cookies in cocoa powder for a chocolatey spin. It gives a deeper chocolate flavor that is bittersweet and satisfying.
Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the dough for added texture and nutty flavor. These nuts bring a delightful crunch that complements the cookies’ softness.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger for a surprising kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. It’s a fun way to switch things up!

These variations will help you cater to different taste preferences while keeping the magic of these Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies intact. For more joyful baking ideas, check out my recipes for Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies or Caramel Chocolate Cookies that can further inspire your festive baking adventures!

Storage Tips for Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their melt-in-your-mouth texture and powdery coating.

Fridge: For longer freshness, store the cookies in the fridge where they can last up to one week. The cool environment helps preserve their flavor, but be sure to keep them in an airtight container.

Freezer: You can freeze the Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies for up to 1 month. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, layering parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a bit, or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat!

Expert Tips for Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Don’t Overbake: Avoid a dry cookie by watching the baking time closely. The cookies should be set but still pale in color.

Chill the Dough: Refrigerating for 30 minutes to 1 hour is key for easier handling and helps maintain the fluffy texture of your Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies.

Cool Before Coating: Make sure the cookies are completely cool before rolling them in powdered sugar a second time; this enhances their snowy appearance.

Variation Flexibility: Feel free to mix different chocolate types or add crushed candy canes for a festive touch that adds texture and flavor.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh extracts and high-quality chocolate chips will greatly enhance the flavor profile of your cookies.

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Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use unsalted butter that is softened to room temperature, ensuring it’s easy to mix. When selecting chocolate chips, look for high-quality mini chocolate chips that are fresh—avoid those with a dull appearance. Fresh vanilla and peppermint extracts are key as well; check expiration dates to enhance your cookies’ flavor.

How should I store Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies?
I recommend storing your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their delightful texture. If you’d like to keep them longer, pop them in the fridge, where they can last a week. Just make sure they’re still in an airtight container to keep them fresh!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies for up to 1 month. To do this, let the cookies cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow them to thaw at room temperature or microwave them for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat!

What if my cookies spread too much during baking?
Ah, no worries! If your cookies spread too much, it may have been due to the dough being too warm when placed in the oven. Ensure you chill the dough for 30 minutes to 1 hour before baking. Additionally, always check that your oven temperature is accurate, as a hotter oven can lead to excessive spreading.

Are these cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?
Definitely! To make Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for blends that contain xanthan gum, as it helps mimic the texture of traditional flour. Just make sure to read all labels on your ingredients for any hidden gluten.

Can my pets eat these cookies?
It’s best to keep these cookies away from your pets. Ingredients like chocolate and peppermint can be harmful to dogs and some other pets. Always check with your veterinarian if you’re unsure about a specific ingredient and keep delectable creations like these just for people!