Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies: The Ultimate Indulgent Treat

Name: Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies: The Ultimate Indulgent Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup mint chocolate chips; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Julia M

December 22, 2025

Introduction to Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Imagine biting into a perfectly soft cookie that melts in your mouth while delicate hints of mint and chocolate dance on your taste buds. This is precisely what you get with mint chocolate chip snowball cookies. They are not just a visual treat; they are a delightful twist on the traditional snowball cookie you may have grown up with.

Why These Cookies Are a Delightful Twist on a Classic

Traditional snowball cookies—often made with nuts and rolled in powdered sugar—are beloved for their buttery flavor and crumbly texture. However, when you introduce the refreshing essence of mint along with the rich sweetness of chocolate chips, you create an irresistible combination that can elevate any dessert table. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual weekend bake, these cookies can bring a unique flair to whatever occasion you’re celebrating.

When considering flavor pairings, mint is known to accentuate sweetness, making the chocolate even more decadent. According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science, flavor combinations can significantly impact the overall experience of a dish. By incorporating mint, these snowball cookies not only look amazing but also taste wonderfully fresh—a perfect contrast to the rich chocolate.

And let’s not forget the joy of serving them! Picture a tray of these mint chocolate chip snowball cookies at a party. They promise to be the talk of the night, with their festive green hue and the delicate dusting of powdered sugar resembling a blanket of snow. What’s more, they’re incredibly easy to make, making them a go-to recipe for busy young professionals looking to impress without sacrificing their valuable time.

If you’re curious about how to make these delightful cookies, don’t worry! In the following sections, we will guide you step-by-step through the process, ensuring that your baking experience is as enjoyable as biting into these minty delights.

For those who want to explore more cooking tips and techniques, consider checking out some resources on baking basics or simple cookie recipes– they can help refine your skills and inspire new creations!

Ingredients for Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Essential ingredients for the perfect cookie

Making mint chocolate chip snowball cookies starts with the right foundation. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is your base. It provides the structure your cookies need.
Unsalted butter: For the best flavor, ensure your butter is room temperature. This gives the cookies a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Powdered sugar: This not only sweetens but also helps create that delightful snowball appearance.
Mint extract: The star of the show! A few drops add that refreshing minty flavor.
Chocolate chips: Choose semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a perfect balance.
Walnuts or pecans: Chopped nuts bring an extra crunch—totally optional, but definitely delicious!

Optional enhancements to elevate your cookies

Looking to delight your guests even more? Consider adding:

Crushed peppermint candies: These can give your cookies a festive touch and an extra burst of mint.
White chocolate chips: For a sweeter contrast, white chocolate adds appealing visual and flavor dimensions.
A sprinkle of sea salt: A touch of salt elevates the sweetness of the chocolate and mint, creating a wonderful flavor profile.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating outstanding mint chocolate chip snowball cookies! If you’re curious about substitutions, take a look at King Arthur Baking for tips on baking science and ingredient swaps. Happy baking!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Baking is a culinary art that brings joy to many, especially during the holidays or special occasions. Today, I’m excited to guide you on how to make delicious, melt-in-your-mouth mint chocolate chip snowball cookies. Follow these steps for a delightful treat that will impress your friends and family!

Preheat your oven and prepare your baking sheets

Before you begin mixing and folding, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that your cookies bake evenly. While the oven is warming up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This not only makes for easy clean-up but also prevents the cookies from sticking—a little win that leads to a more enjoyable baking experience!

Whisk together the dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, it’s time to combine the dry ingredients. Whisk together:

2 cups of all-purpose flour
½ cup of powdered sugar
¼ teaspoon of salt
¼ teaspoon of baking soda

This mixture is the foundation of your mint chocolate chip snowball cookies. Whisking together the ingredients helps evenly distribute the leavening agents, which contributes to the cookies’ light texture.

Cream the butter and sugar mixture

Now, in a separate bowl, cream together 1 cup (two sticks) of softened butter and ½ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the butter, leading to a softer cookie. You can use a hand mixer, but whisking by hand is just as effective if you enjoy a little workout!

Incorporate the flavors with extracts

To add that signature minty touch, mix in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. This ingredient is key to capturing that holiday flavor, and you can adjust the amount according to your preference. Don’t forget to include 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for balance; the combination of both extracts will elevate your mint chocolate chip snowball cookies to the next level of flavor.

Mix in the flour and chocolate chips

Now, gradually incorporate your dry ingredients into the creamed butter mixture. Mixing slowly helps avoid a flour explosion—trust me, you don’t want a cloud of flour in your kitchen! Once combined, fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips. They provide delightful bursts of chocolate in every bite. Using mini chips also gives an adorable look!

Chill the dough for best results

Here’s a key tip: for the best texture and flavor, cover your cookie dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and prevents spreading during baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.

Shape and roll the cookies

After your dough has chilled, scoop out small tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. This step is where the name “snowball cookies” comes into play. You can give them a gentle, classic round shape that will bake beautifully.

Bake to perfection

Place your cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between them (about 2 inches) since they will spread slightly. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. It’s crucial not to overbake; those extra minutes can turn a soft cookie into a crunchy one!

Dust with powdered sugar after baking

Once your cookies have cooled slightly on the baking sheets, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The final touch? A light dusting of powdered sugar. This not only adds sweetness but also enhances that snowball look. Serve them at your next gathering or keep them all to yourself—they’re that good!

With these steps, you’re well on your way to making the most delightful mint chocolate chip snowball cookies. Enjoy the process, share with loved ones, and watch those smiles unfold! For more baking tips and delicious recipes, check out resources like Food Network or Bon Appétit. Happy baking!

Variations on Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

When it comes to creating delightful variations on mint chocolate chip snowball cookies, the possibilities are as endless as your imagination. Here are two fantastic tweaks that can take these treats to the next level.

Adding Nuts for a Crunchy Texture

If you’re looking to add a satisfying crunch to your mint chocolate chip snowball cookies, consider incorporating nuts. Chopped walnuts or pecans are excellent choices that can enhance both the flavor and texture. The nutty notes beautifully complement the mint and chocolate, making each bite even more decadent.

Pro tip: Toast the nuts before adding them to bring out their natural oils and flavors. This small step can make a world of difference in elevating your cookies.

Experimenting with Different Types of Chocolate

Why limit yourself to just one type of chocolate? By experimenting with various chocolates, you can create a unique spin on your mint chocolate chip snowball cookies.

Dark chocolate lends a rich, robust flavor that pairs exceptionally well with the coolness of mint.
White chocolate offers a sweeter, creamier contrast that can balance out the mint’s freshness.
For a fun twist, try candy-coated chocolate chips, which can add color and a slight crunch, making your cookies as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the palate.

With these variations, your mint chocolate chip snowball cookies can become a favorite among friends and family. For more baking tips and unique cookie recipes, check out King Arthur Baking or Food Network. Happy baking!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Achieving the perfect cookie texture

To get that delightfully tender texture in your mint chocolate chip snowball cookies, it’s crucial to use room temperature butter. This allows the butter to cream well with the sugar, creating air pockets that result in a lighter cookie. Aim for a consistency that’s fluffy but not over-creamed.

Baking tips:

Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes prior to baking. This helps maintain shape and prevents spreading.
Keep an eye on your cookies in the oven. They should be set but slightly soft in the center when you take them out—this will continue to firm up as they cool.

Storing and freezing your cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the dough pre-baking. Shape into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer to a freezer bag. You can bake straight from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the bake time.

If you’re curious about keeping baked cookies fresh, check out this guide by Food Network to learn tips on cookie preservation.

With these tips, you’ll be set to create mint chocolate chip snowball cookies that are not only tasty but also perfectly textured and stored!

Serving Suggestions for Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Pairing Cookies with Beverages

When indulging in your mint chocolate chip snowball cookies, the right beverage can elevate the experience. Consider pairing them with a steaming cup of herbal tea, such as peppermint or chamomile, which enhances the cookie’s cool minty notes. Alternatively, a chilled glass of milk—classic but always a winner—can balance the sweetness beautifully. For a fun twist, why not try some coconut water? Its subtle flavor compliments the mint and adds a refreshing touch.

Creative Ways to Present Cookies as Gifts

If you want to delight someone with your mint chocolate chip snowball cookies, presentation matters! Here are a few creative ideas:

Jars: Fill a decorative glass jar with the cookies and tie a charming ribbon around it. This keeps them fresh and adds an appealing aesthetic.
Cookie Tins: Use a colorful tin to hold your cookies, perfect for a festive occasion. You can even decorate the outside with stickers or paint.
Custom Labels: Create personalized labels with a sweet message. This small touch can go a long way in making your gift feel special.

These thoughtful presentations not only enhance the gifting experience but also make your mint chocolate chip snowball cookies stand out. Plus, you’ll be known as the cookie connoisseur among your friends! If you’re interested in more gift ideas, check out this guide for inspiration.

Time Breakdown for Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

When it comes to baking mint chocolate chip snowball cookies, having a clear timeline can really make your experience seamless and enjoyable. Here’s a handy time breakdown for you:

Preparation Time

Expect to spend about 15 minutes on prep work. This includes gathering your ingredients, mixing your dough, and allowing it to chill. Pro tip: Chilling the dough makes it easier to shape those delicious snowy bites!

Baking Time

The baking will take around 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them lightly golden but not too brown for that perfect texture.

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish, not including any cooling time. So, in just half an hour, you can whip up these delightful cookies!

Baking should be fun, and these mint chocolate chip snowball cookies are just the treat to brighten up your afternoon. Interested in more baking tips? Check out this informative guide on getting your baking techniques just right!

Nutritional Facts for Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Calories per cookie

These delightful mint chocolate chip snowball cookies pack a tasty punch, coming in at approximately 90 calories per cookie. Not too bad for a treat, right? Perfect for those late-night cravings or when you need a little boost during the day!

Breakdown of additional nutrients

Besides the satisfying flavor, the mint chocolate chip snowball cookies also provide some interesting nutritional benefits:

Total Fat: About 4g, mainly derived from the butter, which can be beneficial as part of a balanced diet.
Carbohydrates: Roughly 12g, providing the energy you need to power through your day.
Sugars: Around 6g, making these cookies a sweet indulgence without going overboard.
Protein: Each cookie contains about 1g of protein, contributing to your daily intake.

For a deeper understanding of what you’re consuming, I recommend checking out MyFitnessPal for more extensive nutritional breakdowns. Enjoy your baking!

FAQs about Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! One of the joys of baking is that you can get creative with ingredients. If you’re not a fan of mint, you can use vanilla extract instead for a classic flavor. For sweeteners, you can swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar or brown sugar for a richer taste. Don’t have chocolate chips on hand? You can substitute them with white chocolate chips or even dried fruit. Just keep in mind that substitutions can alter texture and taste, so experiment and see what works best for you!

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Making mint chocolate chip snowball cookies gluten-free is easier than you might think. Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Some popular brands include Bob’s Red Mill and King Arthur Flour. These blends are designed to mimic the properties of regular flour, helping you achieve a delightful texture without the gluten!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Storing your delicious mint chocolate chip snowball cookies correctly is key to keeping them fresh! Once they’ve cooled, place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can last up to a week at room temperature, or you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw them at room temperature before enjoying your sweet treats again!

For more baking tips, check out resources from King Arthur Baking or The Kitchn for expert advice!

Conclusion on Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Final thoughts and encouragement to bake

In summary, these delightful mint chocolate chip snowball cookies are not just another holiday treat; they’re a celebration of flavor and fun. With their crisp edges and soft, minty center, they tick all the boxes for a crowd-pleasing dessert. If you’re new to baking, don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try! Making these cookies can be a great way to unwind and share a sweet moment with friends or family—perhaps while enjoying a cozy cup of hot cocoa or your favorite tea.

Ready to dive in? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the baking magic happen! You won’t be disappointed. For more baking inspiration, check out resources from King Arthur Baking or The Kitchn. Happy baking!