Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies: A Festive Delight

Get ready for a delightful holiday experience with our Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies. These cookies are a perfect blend of sweetness and spice, providing a festive treat that will melt in your mouth. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas or just love the comforting taste of cinnamon, these snowball cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Our Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are more than just a cookie; they are a sweet celebration in every bite. The combination of buttery dough and cinnamon-sugar coating makes them irresistible for both kids and adults. They are simple to make yet deliver a luxurious flavor that can be enjoyed at any gathering.

Ideal for winter celebrations, these cookies are also a great homemade gift option for friends and family. The charming snowball shape dusted with cinnamon sugar also makes them an eye-catching addition to your holiday dessert table.

Context/Background

The Snowball Cookie, also known in some cultures as a Russian Tea Cake or Mexican Wedding Cake, has been a part of culinary traditions for centuries. This variation, infused with cinnamon, adds a unique twist that highlights the universally loved spice known for its warming qualities and comforting aroma. This cookie pairs well with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea, making it the perfect companion for a cozy winter day.

Traditionally, snowball cookies feature a buttery, crumbly texture dusted in a generous coating of powdered sugar. The cinnamon addition not only elevates the flavor but also brings a fragrant holiday spirit to the classic recipe.

Recipe Details

Serves: 24 cookies

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Gradually blend in the flour and salt until the mixture is well combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
4. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly browned.
6. While the cookies are baking, combine the ground cinnamon and granulated sugar in a small bowl.
7. Once baked, roll the warm cookies in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until thoroughly coated.
8. Cool on a wire rack and serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

• Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Toast the walnuts lightly before chopping for an enhanced nutty flavor.
• Roll the cookies in the cinnamon sugar while they are still warm to ensure maximum coating.
• Use a cookie scoop for uniformly sized cookies.

Serving Suggestions

These Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies pair perfectly with a warm beverage such as spiced cider, hot chocolate, or your favorite tea. They also make a delightful addition to a holiday cookie platter.

Storage and Leftovers

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For extended freshness, you can freeze them for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature and roll in additional cinnamon sugar if needed before serving.

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are a must-try for every cookie lover. Their irresistible flavor and festive appearance make them a perfect homemade treat during the holiday season. Whether you’re baking for family, sharing with friends, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to bring warmth and joy to your winter festivities.

Recipe Notes

• Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• For a richer taste, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar mix.
• You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.