Chocolate Snowball Cookies
Chocolate Snowball Cookies
These Chocolate Snowball Cookies are soft, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Each cookie is a rich chocolate delight, coated in a delicate layer of powdered sugar that makes them look like little snowy treats straight from a winter wonderland.
With just the right balance of cocoa flavor, sweetness, and buttery texture, they’re the perfect cookies for holiday baking, cookie exchanges, or any cozy afternoon treat.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
Chocolate lovers, rejoice! These cookies take the classic snowball cookie and give it a chocolate twist. The deep cocoa flavor pairs beautifully with the tender, crumbly texture and the snowy powdered sugar coating.
They’re elegant enough to gift in a beautiful tin, yet simple enough to make on a quiet night when you’re craving a chocolatey indulgence.
I love making these during the holidays, but they’re also perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or anytime you need a little chocolate happiness.
They pair wonderfully with coffee, hot cocoa, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for extra texture)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in vanilla extract and cocoa powder until evenly combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms. Fold in nuts if using.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly set but not overly browned.
- Let cookies cool for 5 minutes, then roll each in powdered sugar while still warm. Roll again once completely cooled for the perfect snowball effect.
Jennie’s Thoughts
These cookies are hands-down one of my favorite chocolate treats. They’re buttery, soft, and just the right amount of chocolatey without being overpowering.
I love the way the powdered sugar melts into the cookie slightly, giving each bite that perfect snowy look.
Whenever I make a batch, I find myself sneaking one (or three!) before anyone else gets a chance.
They’re cozy, comforting, and have that homemade bakery feel that makes them so special. Even friends who don’t usually like chocolate cookies fall in love with these.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Snowballs
- Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the richest flavor.
- Chill the dough for 15–20 minutes if it feels too soft — this helps the cookies hold their shape.
- Roll twice in powdered sugar — once warm, once cool — for a bakery-style finish.
- Nuts are optional, but lightly toasted pecans or walnuts add a lovely texture and flavor.
Perfect for Holidays and Gifting
Chocolate Snowball Cookies are a gorgeous addition to any holiday cookie tray. Pair them with Butter Pecan Snowballs, Raspberry Almond Snowball cookies, or Lemon Snowball Cookies for a colorful, crowd-pleasing assortment.
They also make incredible gifts. Package them in small tins or cellophane bags, tie with a ribbon, and you have a thoughtful, homemade treat that friends, family, and neighbors will rave about.
If you loved these Chocolate Snowball Cookies, try my Butter Pecan Snowball Cookies next — they’re equally melt-in-your-mouth delicious with a nutty, buttery flavor that’s perfect for holiday baking.
