Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

When you think of holiday baking or a cozy weekend treat, few things hit the sweet spot like these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies. They’re the perfect blend of rich, creamy peanut butter, mini chocolate chips, and a powdered sugar finish that makes them look as delightful as freshly fallen snow.

This recipe is a must-have for your baking repertoire. Whether you’re sharing them at a festive gathering, gifting them to loved ones, or indulging with a warm cup of tea, these cookies are guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into the details!

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Why You’ll Love These Cookies

1. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies come together effortlessly.
2. Kid-Friendly: Both making and eating them are fun for kids!
3. Perfect for Gifting: Their snowy appearance and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them an irresistible homemade gift.
4. Crowd-Pleaser: Who can resist the combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and a sweet powdered sugar coating?

The Ingredients: Pantry Favorites

This recipe keeps things simple, using ingredients you likely already have on hand:

• ½ cup unsalted butter: Adds a buttery richness to the cookies.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, providing flavor and texture.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness without overpowering the peanut butter.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough, giving structure to the cookies.
• 2 cups mini chocolate chips: Tiny bursts of chocolate in every bite.
• Powdered sugar: The signature finish that makes these cookies look like snowballs.

Step-by-Step Baking Guide

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly.

Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. These prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Butter: Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Peanut Butter: Creamy works best for a smooth texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Beat together until the mixture is creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.

Next, add vanilla extract and mix well.

Gradually add the flour, stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough will be thick but pliable.

Finally, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, portion the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each portion between your palms to create smooth, round balls.

Place the dough balls on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This ensures they have enough room to spread slightly as they bake.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheets in your preheated oven and bake for about 18 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies just start to turn golden brown.

Tip: Be cautious not to overbake! These cookies are meant to be tender and soft. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 5: Cool and Coat

Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes.

While they’re still warm, roll each cookie gently in powdered sugar. The warmth helps the sugar stick, creating a snowy layer.

Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely.

Step 6: The Final Touch

Once the cookies are fully cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for a second, even snowier coating. This double coat not only enhances their appearance but also adds a delicious sweetness to each bite.

Tips for the Perfect Snowball Cookies

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter is softened for easy creaming, and the peanut butter blends smoothly.
2. Don’t Overbake: These cookies should remain soft and tender. Keep an eye on the edges and remove them from the oven as soon as they turn golden.
3. Use Mini Chocolate Chips: Their smaller size ensures even distribution throughout the cookies.
4. Coat While Warm: The first powdered sugar coating adheres best when the cookies are slightly warm.
5. Store Properly: Keep the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Variations to Try

This recipe is a classic, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

1. Add a Crunch: Mix in chopped peanuts or pecans for added texture.
2. Swap the Chips: Use white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for a fun twist.
3. Holiday Flair: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a festive flavor.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
5. Drizzle for Drama: Once cooled, drizzle the cookies with melted chocolate for an extra touch of decadence.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These cookies are perfect for preparing ahead of time, making them ideal for the busy holiday season.

To Store:

• Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.

To Freeze:

• Place the unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a zip-top freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.
• When ready to bake, let them thaw slightly, then bake as directed.

Why This Recipe Works

• Peanut Butter Base: The creamy peanut butter adds moisture and a rich, nutty flavor.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: Their size ensures every bite is dotted with melty chocolate.
• Powdered Sugar Coating: Not only does it give these cookies their signature look, but it also balances the nutty richness with a touch of sweetness.

Perfect for Every Occasion

These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are as versatile as they are delicious. Here are just a few occasions where they’ll shine:

• Holiday Baking: Their snowball-like appearance makes them a festive favorite.
• Cookie Swaps: A unique addition that’s sure to stand out.
• Gifting: Pack them in decorative tins for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Everyday Indulgence: Who says you need a special reason to enjoy these cookies?

Nutritional Information

Serving Size	1 cookie (approx.)
Calories	~120 kcal
Carbs	~15g
Fat	~6g
Protein	~2g

Baking Memories That Last

There’s something magical about baking cookies especially when the result is as delightful as these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies. With their tender texture, rich flavors, and snowy finish, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a batch of cookies that will warm your heart and sweeten your day.

Happy baking! 😊