Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies – Soft, Buttery & Festive Treat
Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a refreshing twist on classic snowball cookies, also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies. These buttery cookies melt in your mouth and are rolled in powdered sugar to resemble little snowballs, making them perfect for holidays, winter gatherings, or anytime you crave a minty dessert.
The combination of cool mint flavor with rich chocolate chips creates a balanced cookie that feels indulgent without being heavy. As a professional baker, this is one of my favorite recipes to recommend for gifting, cookie trays, and festive dessert tables because it looks elegant yet is incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted butter – 1 cup (226 g), softened
- Powdered sugar – ½ cup (60 g)
- Peppermint extract – 1 teaspoon
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
- All-purpose flour – 2¼ cups (280 g)
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon
- Mini chocolate chips – ¾ cup (135 g)
- Green food coloring – optional, 1–2 drops
For Rolling
- Powdered sugar – 1 cup (120 g), for coating
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step is essential for creating tender snowball cookies.
Step 2: Add Flavor
Mix in peppermint extract and vanilla extract. If using food coloring, add it now and blend until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently to avoid overmixing the dough.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a smooth ball. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 12–14 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops remain pale.
Step 7: Roll in Sugar
Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. Once completely cooled, roll them again for a thick snowball coating.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
| Details | Time / Amount |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Chill Time | Not required |
| Cook Time | 12–14 minutes |
| Total Time | About 30 minutes |
| Yield | 24 cookies |
| Serving Size | 2 cookies |
Tips & Variations
- Use mini chocolate chips for even distribution in every bite.
- Do not overbake; snowball cookies should stay pale and soft.
- For extra mint flavor, add ¼ teaspoon mint extract (optional).
- Roll cookies twice in powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish.
- Add finely chopped chocolate instead of chips for a smoother texture.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 9 g |
Values may vary based on ingredients used.
Healthy Alternatives
Low-Fat Option
- Replace half the butter with light butter or Greek yogurt (texture will be slightly softer).
Sugar-Free
- Use powdered erythritol instead of powdered sugar and sugar-free chocolate chips.
Gluten-Free
- Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Keto-Friendly
- Use almond flour, powdered monk fruit sweetener, and sugar-free chocolate chips.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies with hot chocolate, peppermint tea, or coffee. They are perfect for holiday cookie boxes, dessert platters, or as an after-dinner sweet treat.
These cookies offer the perfect balance of buttery richness, cool mint, and chocolatey bites. Simple, elegant, and always a crowd-pleaser, this recipe is one you will come back to year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake them up to 3 days in advance and store in an airtight container.
Can I freeze Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies?
Yes, freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Roll in powdered sugar after thawing.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
Butter may have been too soft. Chill the dough for 20 minutes if needed.
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini?
Yes, but mini chips give a better texture and appearance.
Do I need food coloring?
No, it is completely optional and only used for visual appeal.
