Gingerbread Snowball Cookies

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Gingerbread Snowball Cookies

Gingerbread Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. Soft and buttery with the perfect blend of warm spices, these cookies are rolled in powdered sugar to create a beautiful snowy finish that’s as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also offers a step-by-step guide that will have you baking up a batch of these delicious cookies in no time. The comforting aroma of ginger and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen makes these cookies a must-try for any festive occasion.

These cookies are sure to become a cherished favorite in your household. Their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the deliciously spiced flavor profile make them perfect for sharing with loved ones or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Plus, they’re a wonderful way to include the kids in the kitchen, creating joyful memories while baking together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the standout features of Gingerbread Snowball Cookies is their simplicity. With easy prep and minimal ingredients, they are perfect for novice bakers or those short on time. Every member of the family can join in the fun, rolling the dough into delightful little snowballs, ensuring that everyone has a part in making this delicious treat. The recipe balances traditional flavors with a straightforward approach, making it approachable and rewarding.

In addition, these festive cookies are ideal for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or just a special evening treat. Their beautiful, snowy appearance makes them an appealing centerpiece on any dessert table, evoking smiles from everyone who tries them. The combination of flavors will transport you to winter wonderlands, making this recipe a true joy to make and share.

Ingredients for Gingerbread Snowball Cookies

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 1 cup powdered sugar for rolling
• Pinch of cinnamon (optional)

Every ingredient in this recipe contributes to creating the soft, flavorful cookie we all love. From the velvety texture of unsalted butter to the rich, warm spices that embody the holiday spirit, this combination is key to achieving that perfect snowy aesthetic and delicious flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions for Gingerbread Snowball Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C). This is essential for ensuring that your cookies bake evenly and develop that lovely golden base.

2. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to allow for a hassle-free cleanup.

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the sifted powdered sugar until fluffy and creamy. This step introduces air into the dough, giving your cookies a light texture.

4. Mix in the molasses and vanilla extract until fully combined. The molasses adds richness and depth of flavor, perfectly balancing the spices.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This step helps evenly distribute the spices, which is crucial for flavor.

6. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, blending until a soft dough forms. The dough should be pliable and easy to handle.

7. Chill the dough for about 10 minutes if too soft to handle, allowing it to firm up for easier rolling.

8. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

9. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; you want a beautiful golden-brown bottom but a soft, chewy top.

10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, then roll in powdered sugar while warm. This gives them that snowy coat and enhances their sweetness. Allow them to cool completely, then roll again for an extra snowy finish.

Tips & Tricks

• Chilling the Dough: If your dough feels particularly soft, chilling it for a bit longer can help make rolling easier.
• Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a little more ginger or cinnamon can ramp up the flavor if desired.
• Make Ahead: These cookies can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container until you’re ready to enjoy them.
• Presentation: For a festive touch, consider placing your cookies on a cheerful holiday platter or in a decorative tin when giving them as gifts.
• Alternative Coatings: While powdered sugar is traditional, you can also mix in a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolatey snow effect or crushed nuts for added texture.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Gingerbread Snowball Cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa. Consider adding a plate of these cookies alongside a warm, spiced drink for a delightful holiday treat. You can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fruit compote for a fresh contrast to the rich spices. For a more festive presentation, stack them high on a decorative plate with sprigs of holly or cinnamon sticks for the perfect holiday table centerpiece!

Nutritional Information

Gingerbread Snowball Cookies are an indulgent treat, and moderation is key. While exact nutritional values can vary, each cookie typically contains around 120 calories, depending on the size and additional sugar coating. They offer a satisfying kick of flavors and sweetness, making them a delightful occasional treat during festive seasons. Just remember to balance them with healthy meals too!

Storing Tips & Variations for Gingerbread Snowball Cookies

Storing your Gingerbread Snowball Cookies is easy! Simply place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper, and they’ll keep well for up to a week at room temperature. If you’d like to make them ahead of time, you can freeze them. Shape the dough into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months. When ready to bake, you can bake from frozen—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

For a healthier twist, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrients. Adding zest from an orange or lemon will give these cookies a refreshing flavor boost!

Conclusion for Gingerbread Snowball Cookies

Don’t miss out on the chance to create these delightful Gingerbread Snowball Cookies for your family and friends. With their soft, spice-infused centers and snowy sweetness, they are perfect for any festive occasion. They are easy to make and share in the holiday joy, making them an irresistible addition to your seasonal baking list!

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While butter provides the best flavor and texture, you may substitute margarine. Just ensure it’s unsalted for the best results.

2. How do I make these cookies without gluten?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a direct substitute for regular flour to make these cookies gluten-free.

3. Can I add nuts to the dough?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch to these cookies.

4. How should I store leftover cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months.

5. Can I decorate these cookies?
Yes! You can decorate with icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter for an extra festive touch if desired. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Gingerbread Snowball Cookies

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Delightful holiday cookies that are soft, buttery, and rolled in powdered sugar, capturing the essence of the festive season.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
• Total Time: 34 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 1 cup powdered sugar for rolling
• Pinch of cinnamon (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the sifted powdered sugar until fluffy and creamy.
4. Mix in the molasses and vanilla extract until fully combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, blending until a soft dough forms.
7. Chill the dough for about 10 minutes if too soft to handle.
8. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden.
10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, then roll in powdered sugar while warm.
11. Allow them to cool completely, then roll again for an extra snowy finish.

Notes

For increased flavor, feel free to adjust the spices. These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

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