Peppermint Bark Snowball Cookies

If you’re dreaming of a sweet and festive treat that balances buttery softness with a refreshing crunch, look no further than Peppermint Bark Snowball Cookies. These delightful cookies blend the classic melt-in-your-mouth texture of snowball cookies with the irresistible combination of creamy white chocolate and crushed peppermint bark. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter afternoons, Peppermint Bark Snowball Cookies are bursting with flavor and yell “celebrate” with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavor Fusion: Combines the cool peppermint crunch with rich, buttery cookie dough for a holiday-perfect bite.
• Soft Yet Crunchy: Delivers a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture dusted in powdered sugar with the surprising crunch of peppermint bits.
• Easy to Make: Requires simple pantry staples and straightforward steps, ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
• Great for Gifting: These cookies package beautifully, making them an excellent homemade gift for friends and family.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Recipe welcomes creative twists and dietary substitutions without losing charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays an essential role in achieving the ideal balance of flavor, texture, and festive color in your Peppermint Bark Snowball Cookies. From rich butter to the magical burst of peppermint bark, these basics come together beautifully.

• Butter: Unsalted and softened for creamy richness and tender crumb.
• Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and creates the signature snowy coating after baking.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure while keeping the cookies delicate.
• Vanilla Extract: Infuses warmth and enhances overall flavor complexity.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies other tastes.
• Peppermint Bark: Chopped finely to sprinkle in every bite with minty crunch and festive color.
• White Chocolate Chips: Optional but highly recommended for creamy pockets of sweetness.

Variations for Peppermint Bark Snowball Cookies

Feel free to personalize this festive favorite to suit your tastes or dietary needs — it’s super easy to experiment with flavors and ingredients to find your perfect cookie version.

• Chocolate Lovers’ Option: Swap white chocolate chips with semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a richer bite.
• Gluten-Free Twist: Use a gluten-free flour blend to keep the cookies cozy and inclusive.
• Vegan Version: Replace butter with vegan margarine and ensure white chocolate is dairy-free.
• Extra Minty Kick: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for an intensified mint flavor.
• Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts to introduce a rustic crunch.

How to Make Peppermint Bark Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

Start by creaming the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Then, mix in vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and a pinch of salt, stirring until everything comes together into a soft dough.

Step 2: Fold in Peppermint Bark and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in chopped peppermint bark pieces and white chocolate chips to distribute the festive crunch throughout the dough evenly without overmixing.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into 1 to 1.5-inch balls, making sure they are evenly sized to bake consistently. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced an inch apart to allow for slight spreading.

Step 4: Bake Until Just Set

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft to maintain that tender texture.

Step 5: Roll in Powdered Sugar

While the cookies are still warm but cool enough to handle, roll them generously in powdered sugar to create the classic snowball appearance and add an extra layer of sweetness.

Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Bark Snowball Cookies

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures your dough mixes smoothly and bakes evenly.
• Chop Peppermint Bark Finely: Smaller pieces distribute better and prevent overpowering crunch.
• Don’t Overbake: Removing cookies right as edges turn golden keeps the centers soft and buttery.
• Double-Coat the Cookies: For the ultimate snowy look, roll warm cookies in powdered sugar twice for extra sweetness and visual appeal.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Ensures the cookies hold their shape and texture before storing or serving.

How to Serve Peppermint Bark Snowball Cookies

Garnishes

Dust a final light layer of powdered sugar right before serving for a fresh “new snow” effect that makes these cookies look irresistible and festive.

Side Dishes

Pair with a warm cup of hot cocoa or peppermint-infused coffee to complement the minty sweetness for a cozy winter treat combo everyone will rave about.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies in festive tins layered with colorful parchment paper or stack them tied with holiday ribbon to create a stunning gift presentation that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, ensuring they stay soft and maintain their snowy coating without absorbing excess moisture.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for fresh cookies anytime.

Reheating

Warm cookies gently in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5 minutes to refresh their soft texture and bring out the peppermint aroma without melting the coating.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate instead of peppermint bark?

Yes, you can substitute regular chocolate chips or chopped chocolate, but the peppermint bark adds a unique minty crunch that defines the flavor profile of this recipe.

Are Peppermint Bark Snowball Cookies gluten-free?

Traditional recipes use all-purpose flour, but you can easily swap in a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs with excellent results.

What makes these snowball cookies different from other snowball cookies?

These cookies incorporate peppermint bark and white chocolate chips, adding festive flavor and crunch that traditional snowball cookies don’t have.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing the dough a day ahead enhances the flavors, and chilling it makes shaping easier and results in a better texture.

How do I prevent the cookies from sticking in storage?

Layer cookies with parchment paper or wax paper in your storage container to keep them from sticking together and preserve their beautiful powdered sugar coating.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about biting into soft, buttery Peppermint Bark Snowball Cookies that celebrate the best of the holiday season. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, these cookies bring festive joy and cozy warmth with every delightful crunch. So grab your ingredients, follow this easy recipe, and get ready to make new sweet memories with this classic treat you’ll want to enjoy all winter long.

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