Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are soft, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth, with a refreshing hint of mint and bursts of chocolate in every bite. They’re a festive twist on classic snowball cookies, cool, creamy mint flavor paired with rich chocolate and finished with a snowy powdered sugar coating. These cookies are easy to make, not overly sweet, and perfect for holidays, winter baking, or anytime you want a cookie that feels both cozy and refreshing.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft, tender snowball cookie texture that melts in your mouth
- Cool mint flavor balanced with rich chocolate chips
- Not overly sweet, even with the powdered sugar coating
- Easy dough with simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for Christmas cookie trays and gifting
- Freezer-friendly and great for making ahead
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp peppermint extract
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup mini chocolate chips
- Optional: green food coloring (1–2 drops)
Recommended Baking Tools
Cookie Scoop Set – helps you scoop the dough evenly for perfect snowball cookies.
Baking Sheet Set – gives even heat and prevents cookies from burning.
Silicone Baking Mats – stop sticking and make baking easier.
Measuring Cups & Spoons – help you measure ingredients accurately.
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Mix in vanilla extract and peppermint extract until fully combined.
- Add flour and salt, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.
- If using food coloring, mix in gently until evenly tinted.
- Scoop dough and roll into 1-inch balls.
- Place cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until set but still pale on top.
- Let cookies cool for 5 minutes, then gently roll in powdered sugar while warm.
- Once completely cooled, roll again in powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
Cooking Notes
Snowball cookies should stay light in color. Overbaking will dry them out and reduce their soft, delicate texture. Mini chocolate chips work best because they distribute evenly and don’t overpower the dough.
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Variations
- Use dark chocolate chips for a deeper chocolate flavor
- Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate after cooling
- Add crushed peppermint candies for extra crunch
- Swap peppermint extract for mint extract for a milder flavor
- Make them nutty by adding finely chopped almonds
Tips
- Peppermint extract is strong, measure carefully
- Use room-temperature butter for smooth mixing
- Handle warm cookies gently when rolling in sugar
- Don’t skip the second powdered sugar coating
- Store cookies completely cooled to prevent moisture buildup
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with hot chocolate, coffee, or peppermint tea
- Add to Christmas cookie trays and dessert tables
- Package in tins or boxes for holiday gifts
- Pair with vanilla or shortbread cookies
- Dust with extra powdered sugar just before serving
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: About 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
Approximate values
- Calories: 155
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
FAQs
Are these cookies very minty?
No. The mint flavor is balanced and refreshing, not overpowering.
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini?
Yes, but mini chips distribute better and keep the cookies tender.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. Refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours before baking.
Do these cookies freeze well?
Yes. Freeze baked cookies without powdered sugar, then roll after thawing.
Why roll the cookies twice in sugar?
The first roll melts slightly, the second creates the snowy, bakery-style finish.
Conclusion
Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a festive, refreshing twist on a classic favorite. With their soft, buttery texture, cool mint flavor, and rich chocolate chips, they’re easy to make and always stand out on cookie trays. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving something sweet and minty, these snowballs are guaranteed to be a hit.