As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of cinnamon swirling through the air took me back to holiday gatherings from my childhood. This is exactly the feeling that Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies capture—warm, buttery bites that melt in your mouth. This nut-free version ensures everyone can enjoy them, from family members with allergies to those who just love a cozy treat. Plus, the quick preparation means you can whip up a batch in no time, making them an effortless addition to any holiday spread. With just a few simple ingredients, these cookies become an instant favorite, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring by the fire. What’s better than that? Curious to learn how to make these delightful snowy confections? Let’s dive into this recipe!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Soft, Buttery Texture: Each bite of these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies is a delightful experience, with their melt-in-your-mouth quality that feels like a warm hug.
Quick & Easy: In just 30 minutes or less, you can have a batch ready, making them a fantastic option for last-minute holiday parties or cozy evenings at home.
Nut-Free Delight: Perfect for guests with allergies, this nut-free recipe ensures everyone can join in on the sweet fun without worry.
Endless Variations: Customize them to your heart’s content—try adding a touch of nutmeg or mini chocolate chips for a fun twist!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether served alongside a cup of tea or as a centerpiece on holiday cookie trays, these cookies always steal the show. Check out my Pineapple Cookies Tropical for another delightful treat sure to impress your guests!
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free cookies.
- Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use vegan butter for a dairy-free alternative.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and creates the signature snowball appearance; swap with coconut sugar for a less refined option.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warm spice flavor; can substitute with pumpkin pie spice for a festive twist.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; feel free to omit for a simpler cookie.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; an essential touch, so don't leave it out.
For Coating
- Powdered Sugar – For rolling cookies to achieve that snowy finish; use extra if you want a thicker coat.
- Ground Cinnamon – To mix with the powdered sugar for an added layer of flavor; essential part of the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies experience.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes with a hand mixer. Next, blend in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Mix until a smooth dough forms and comes away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 2: Form Cookies
Once the dough is ready, use a small cookie scoop or your hands to portion out the dough, rolling it into 1-inch balls. Arrange these dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading during baking. It’s essential to keep the dough chilled if you’re working in a warm kitchen—chill the formed dough balls for added firmness.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the cinnamon sugar snowball cookies for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should be lightly golden while the centers stay soft. Remember, over-baking can lead to a dry texture, so it’s okay if they seem slightly underbaked—they'll firm up as they cool. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the sheet for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Cool and Coat
After your cookies have cooled on the baking sheet, carefully transfer them to a wire rack for complete cooling. While they're still warm, take a shallow bowl and combine ½ cup of powdered sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Roll each cookie in this sugar mixture until they are fully coated for that iconic snowball appearance. This step is key to achieving the sweet, snowy finish of your cinnamon sugar snowball cookies.
Step 5: Serve or Store
Once your cookies have completely cooled to room temperature, they are ready to be enjoyed! Arrange them on a festive plate for serving or store them in an airtight container at room temperature. These delicious cinnamon sugar snowball cookies maintain their flavor and texture for up to a week, making them a perfect treat for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them soft and flavorful.
Fridge: If you'd like to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, simply place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until heated through. This brings back the soft texture of these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
As you indulge in the soft, sweet warmth of these cookies, consider pairing them with delicious accompaniments that elevate the experience.
- Cozy Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy, a steaming cup of hot chocolate complements the buttery cookies and adds a delightful dash of warmth.
- Spiced Chai Tea: A fragrant chai tea enhances the cinnamon flavor, offering a spiced balance that transports you to a winter wonderland.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing burst of tartness that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the cookies.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream can be served on the side for a luxurious dip, perfect for savoring every bite.
- Cinnamon Apple Compote: This warm, spiced apple topping adds a seasonal flair and makes a comforting partner alongside these delightful snowball cookies.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream creates a heavenly combination when enjoyed alongside the warm cinnamon sugar cookies.
- Nutty Maple Syrup: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup (or a nut-free alternative) for a sweet, rich flavor that complements the cookies beautifully.
- Holiday Punch: A refreshing, lightly spiced holiday punch can enhance your festive spirit and balance the sweetness of the cookies.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough. Cold butter can lead to uneven texture in your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.
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Watch the Baking Time: Check the cookies as they bake; they should be soft when you take them out. Over-baking can cause them to dry out.
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Warm Coating Trick: Roll the cookies in powdered sugar and cinnamon while still warm for a better coating. The heat helps the sugar adhere perfectly!
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Chill the Dough: If your kitchen is warm, chilling the formed dough balls for 15-30 minutes before baking can help them hold their shape better.
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Flavor Variations: Don't hesitate to experiment! Add a pinch of nutmeg or swap in mini chocolate chips for a fun twist on these classic Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the cozy flavors without a last-minute rush! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This will keep the dough fresh and ready when you're ready to bake. When you're set to indulge, scoop and roll the chilled dough into balls, and proceed with baking as directed. To keep the cookies' signature texture, it's best to coat them in powdered sugar right after baking while still warm. These time-saving steps ensure your cookies remain just as delicious and delightful come serving time!
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you create your own version of these delicious cookies!
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Nutmeg Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the dough for a warm, aromatic twist. It subtly enhances the cinnamon flavor, giving you the comfort of holiday spices in every bite.
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Chocolate Delight: Mix in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in each cookie. The chocolate pairs beautifully with the cinnamon, making it a delightful treat for any chocolate lover!
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Cocoa Powder: Substitute a portion of the flour with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate snowball cookie. This creates a decadent twist that chocolate enthusiasts will appreciate.
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Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and a plant-based milk instead of regular butter to make these cookies dairy-free while maintaining the same delightful taste.
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Pumpkin Spice Snowballs: Swap out some ground cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice during the holidays for a seasonal flavor kick. These cookies will warm your heart with every bite.
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Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough to brighten up the flavors. The citrus accents will lift the cozy warmth of cinnamon to new heights!
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Gluten-Free: For gluten sensitivities, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You won't lose any of the soft, buttery texture we love in these cookies!
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Powdered Sugar Twist: Before rolling the warm cookies in powdered sugar, mix in a splash of vanilla extract for a subtly sweet flavor boost. It adds an extra layer of yumminess!
Each variation invites you to explore new flavors and make these cookies truly your own. If you love variations, check out my delightful Cinnamon Crunch Swirled recipe for another exciting twist in baking!
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for these cookies?
You can use all-purpose flour for these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies to achieve the proper texture and structure. If you're considering a gluten-free option, I recommend a gluten-free flour blend, which can work wonderfully as a substitute.
How should I store my cookies to keep them fresh?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To maintain their softness and prevent them from drying out, make sure the container is sealed tightly.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking, then freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
What can I do if my cookies aren’t rolling into balls easily?
If your dough is too soft to roll into balls, it might be too warm. Try chilling the dough for 15-30 minutes in the fridge. This will firm it up and make it easier to shape your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies without them falling flat during baking.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Yes! This recipe is nut-free, making it a safe choice for gatherings with guests who have nut allergies. However, if anyone has allergies related to dairy or gluten, consider using vegan butter and a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate their needs.
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cream together 1 cup of softened butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Blend in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon until a smooth dough forms.
- Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form 1-inch balls of dough. Arrange on a lined baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden and centers stay soft. Let them rest on the sheet for 5 minutes.
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Combine ½ cup of powdered sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Roll each cookie in the mixture until fully coated.
- Serve on a festive plate or store in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to a week.
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