Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

These Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a festive twist on a classic favorite. Buttery, crumbly, and coated in powdered sugar, each bite melts in your mouth with a refreshing burst of mint and rich mini chocolate chips. They’re not only delicious but also eye-catching with their soft green color—perfect for holiday trays, gift tins, or a fun St. Patrick’s Day treat.

Why You’ll Love Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

• Easy and fun to make with pantry staples
• Perfectly festive with mint flavor and green hue
• Buttery, crumbly texture that melts in your mouth
• Great for holiday gifts and parties
• Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar, plus more for coating
• 1 teaspoon mint extract
• 1–2 teaspoons green gel food coloring
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup mini chocolate chips

Directions

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 2–3 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
3. Add Mint Flavoring:
   Add 1 teaspoon of mint extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Tint the Dough:
   Gradually add 1–2 teaspoons of green gel food coloring, a little at a time, mixing in between, until you reach your desired minty green color. You can go for a soft pastel or a deeper, vibrant tone.
5. Add Dry Ingredients:
   Slowly mix in the 2 cups of flour and ¼ teaspoon salt, stirring until the dough is fully formed and no dry streaks remain.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips:
   Gently fold in the ¾ cup of mini chocolate chips, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Shape the Cookies:
   Scoop out about 1-inch portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
8. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes. The cookies will not brown much, so remove them once the bottoms are just set. Be careful not to overbake.
9. First Sugar Coating:
   Allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while they are still warm. This helps the sugar adhere better.
10. Final Coating:
    Once the cookies are completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar a second time to give them a classic snowy look.

Pro Tips and Variations

• For a richer mint flavor, try using peppermint extract instead of mint.
• Use dark mini chocolate chips for a bolder contrast and flavor.
• Add a drop of vanilla extract for depth.
• Don’t skip the double coating in powdered sugar—it’s key to the signature snowball look.
• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for make-ahead baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with hot cocoa, coffee, or peppermint tea
• Perfect addition to Christmas cookie trays
• Pack in gift boxes or cellophane bags for holiday favors
• Great for cookie exchanges

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature
• Recoat with powdered sugar after thawing for best presentation

FAQs

Can I use peppermint extract instead of mint extract?
Yes! Peppermint has a stronger flavor, so you might want to use a little less.

Do I have to use green food coloring?
No, it’s optional—but it adds a festive look, especially for holidays.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough or baked cookies, just re-roll in powdered sugar before serving.

Conclusion

These Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a fun, festive take on a holiday classic. With their refreshing mint flavor, buttery texture, and sweet powdered sugar finish, they’re a joy to make and a delight to share. Whether you’re baking for the season or a themed celebration, these cookies will surely impress.

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