Chocolate Snowballs are a delightful treat that combines the richness of chocolate with a soft, buttery texture, all wrapped in a snowy coating of powdered sugar. These bite-sized cookies are perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave a sweet, chocolatey indulgence. With a delicate crumb and a melt-in-your-mouth feel, Chocolate Snowballs are as easy to make as they are to enjoy. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or simply looking for a cozy treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in the chopped nuts, if using.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set but not browned.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet.
- Roll in Powdered Sugar:
- While the cookies are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar until fully coated. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again for a thick, snowy coating.
Enjoy your Chocolate Snowballs, a perfect combination of chocolatey goodness and sweet, powdery delight!