Using imitation peppermint extract is a flavor disaster I experienced once. It gave the cookies a sharp, almost chemical aftertaste that ruined the whole batch. Pure peppermint extract, while a bit more expensive, has a clean, cool, refreshing flavor that tastes like a candy cane, not medicine. Trust me, do not substitute on this ingredient; it makes all the difference.
Not crushing the peppermint candies finely enough is a common frustration. Large, sharp pieces of candy can make rolling the dough balls difficult and can be unpleasant to bite into. I place the candies in a small plastic bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into a fine, almost sandy consistency with just a few small bits for texture. This creates a pretty, sparkly coating that sticks well and is delicious to eat.
Skipping the second roll in powdered sugar is a mistake if you want that classic, snowy look. After the cookies cool completely, the first layer of powdered sugar often looks a bit damp and absorbed. A second roll in fresh powdered sugar gives them a final, pristine, winter-wonderland finish that looks professionally done and is irresistible on a platter.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are the highlight of my holiday cookie tray. I pile them high on a cake stand or arrange them in the center of a platter surrounded by other cookies. Their pink and white color just pops and makes the whole display look festive and inviting. They’re always the first cookie people comment on and try.
I love packaging them as thoughtful gifts. I’ll place a stack in a clear cellophane bag tied with a red and white striped ribbon, or line a small holiday tin with parchment and nestle them inside. They travel well and feel like such a personal, handmade gift that friends and neighbors truly appreciate.
For a cozy holiday moment, I serve a few of these cookies on a small plate with a mug of rich hot chocolate. The peppermint in the cookie complements the chocolate drink perfectly, and it feels like such a special, festive treat. They’re also delightful with a cup of peppermint tea for a double dose of holiday cheer.
Variations & Customizations
If you’re not a fan of peppermint, you can easily adapt these. Swap the peppermint extract for pure almond extract (using just ¾ teaspoon, as it’s stronger) and roll the baked cookies in powdered sugar mixed with a little cinnamon. You’ve got a Mexican wedding cookie-style snowball that’s just as delicious.
For a different chocolate experience, try using mini white chocolate chips or even chopped up peppermint bark pieces in the dough. You can also drizzle the fully cooled and sugared cookies with a little melted dark or white chocolate for an extra decorative touch.
To make them even more festive, you can roll the dough balls in nonpareil sprinkles or coarse sugar before baking for a sparkly effect. For a kid-friendly version, you can use holiday-colored M&M’s instead of chocolate chips. The colors make them even more cheerful and fun.
How to Store, Freeze & Reheat
Once completely cool, I store these cookies in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days. If you need to layer them, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to protect the powdered sugar coating. The powdered sugar may soften slightly over time, but the flavor remains perfect.
You can freeze the baked and fully cooled cookies very successfully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, and then give them a fresh roll in powdered sugar to refresh their snowy appearance. You can also freeze the shaped, unbaked dough balls on a tray before transferring to a bag; just add 1-2 minutes to the baking time when baking from frozen.
Reheating isn’t necessary, as these are meant to be enjoyed at room temperature. If they’ve been in the fridge or a cold place and feel too firm, simply let them come to room temperature for an hour before serving. The texture will be perfect.
Conclusion
These Peppermint Snowball Cookies have become a non-negotiable part of my holiday baking. They bring such a sense of whimsy and delight to the kitchen and to everyone who tries them. I hope this recipe finds its way into your holiday traditions and brings as much bright, sweet joy to your home as it has to mine. Now, go soften that butter and get ready to make some edible snowballs!