Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your own batch of Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp peppermint extract
- 1 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
Directions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt until evenly combined.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is creamy and light.
- Step 4: Add the vanilla extract and peppermint extract to the butter mixture, blending well.
- Step 5: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Step 6: Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently until they are distributed evenly within the dough.
- Step 7: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are set while the centers remain soft.
- Step 9: Remove cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. While they are still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar. Once completely cool, roll them again for an extra snowy coating.
Pro Tips for Making Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
- Use high-quality butter for a richer flavor in your cookies.
- For extra mintiness, consider adding an additional ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract.
- Chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking if it seems too soft to handle; this will help the cookies hold their shape.
- Experiment with using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer, and sprinkle powdered sugar just before serving for a pristine look.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of chocolate in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate or dark chocolate, depending on your preference.
2. How should I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
3. What can I use instead of peppermint extract?
If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can use an equal amount of vanilla extract, but the mint flavor will be reduced.
4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Doubling the recipe is a great idea if you’re serving a crowd. Just make sure you have enough baking sheets to accommodate the extra cookies.
Conclusion
Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the cozy flavors of mint and chocolate in a fun and festive package. With their soft texture and snowy appearance, they are perfect for winter gatherings and festive occasions. Try this recipe to add a touch of sweetness to your holiday celebrations or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy baking and indulging in these delightful cookies that everyone will love!
