Gingerbread Snowballs – Best Holiday Cookie Recipe

If you’re searching for a holiday cookie that combines nostalgic flavor with melt-in-your-mouth texture, Gingerbread Snowballs are the ultimate treat. These buttery, spiced cookies are rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy finish that makes them perfect for gifting, cookie swaps, or simply cozying up with a cup of hot cocoa. Packed with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, Gingerbread Snowballs deliver festive flair in every bite. Best of all? They’re incredibly easy to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes.

Warm, Spiced, and Perfect for the Holidays

Gingerbread Snowballs stand out as the perfect combination of crumbly shortbread and classic gingerbread. They’re soft on the inside, coated in sweet powdered sugar, and bursting with holiday flavor. Whether you’re looking for a new Christmas cookie recipe or something to fill your winter dessert platter, these cookies offer simplicity, elegance, and a nostalgic nod to traditional gingerbread—all in one bite-sized ball.

These spiced cookies are not only visually festive but also make a great choice for those who want an egg-free, nut-free dessert. Thanks to the molasses and cozy spices, they taste just like your favorite gingerbread men but in a buttery snowball form.

Ingredients That Make the Magic

• Unsalted Butter: Provides the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that snowball cookies are known for.
• Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and gives the cookies their signature snow-dusted coating.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor and balances the spice.
• Salt: A small amount deepens the flavor and brings out the sweetness.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and the signature spice of gingerbread.
• Ground Ginger: The star spice that gives these cookies their classic gingerbread taste.
• Ground Nutmeg: Provides subtle depth and richness.
• Ground Allspice: Adds a fragrant, peppery undertone.
• Ground Cloves: Intensifies the holiday spice aroma and flavor.
• Molasses: Brings that rich, dark sweetness iconic to all gingerbread treats.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the cookie structure while keeping them soft and tender.
• Extra Powdered Sugar: Used for rolling, creating that snowy finish and a second layer of sweetness.

Ingredient Swaps and Smart Substitutions

If you’re missing an ingredient or want to adapt the recipe to your preferences, here are some helpful alternatives:

• Butter Swap: Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version. Choose a stick-style variety for best results.
• Molasses Substitute: Maple syrup or dark honey can be used in a pinch, though molasses delivers the richest gingerbread flavor.
• Spice Adjustments: Out of cloves or allspice? Increase cinnamon slightly or use pumpkin pie spice as a backup.
• Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a celiac-friendly treat.

These variations keep the essence of Gingerbread Snowballs intact while making the recipe more inclusive.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Gingerbread Snowballs

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.
2. Cream the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy—this ensures the cookies will be tender.
3. Add Sugar and Spices: Mix in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and molasses. Beat until the mixture is smooth and fragrant.
4. Incorporate the Flour: Gradually add the flour in batches, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light.
5. Shape the Dough: Scoop out 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie and roll into smooth balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spaced 1 inch apart.
6. Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. Do not overbake—these cookies should remain soft and tender.
7. First Sugar Coating: Let the cookies rest for 1–2 minutes, then gently roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. This allows the sugar to cling perfectly.
8. Cool and Coat Again: Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, roll them again in powdered sugar for that iconic “snowball” look.
9. Serve and Enjoy: These cookies are best served with warm beverages and enjoyed slowly for maximum comfort.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cookies

• Chill the Dough (Optional): If your dough feels too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes before rolling.
• Don’t Overbake: Look for lightly golden edges. Overbaking can make them dry instead of buttery-soft.
• Double Sugar Coat: For the best snowy appearance, always roll once while warm and again after cooling.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to one week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just re-roll in powdered sugar before serving.

These practical tips ensure your Gingerbread Snowballs turn out bakery-perfect every time.

Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations

These cookies are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of holiday favorites:

• Perfect Pairings: Serve with hot chocolate, chai tea, or spiced apple cider. Their spice complements warm drinks wonderfully.
• Holiday Platter Addition: Add to a cookie tray with peppermint bark, sugar cookies, and thumbprints for a colorful dessert spread.
• Drizzle Option: For an elegant twist, lightly drizzle the tops with melted white chocolate before the second sugar roll.
• Zesty Version: Add a touch of orange zest to the dough for a citrusy holiday spin.
• Spicy Kick: Amp up the ginger or add a dash of cayenne for those who love a bit of heat in their sweets.

The beauty of Gingerbread Snowballs lies in their adaptability—you can keep them classic or dress them up with ease.

Why Gingerbread Snowballs Deserve a Spot in Your Holiday Baking

Gingerbread Snowballs aren’t just cookies—they’re a cozy tradition waiting to happen. Whether you’re baking for loved ones, holiday parties, or a quiet snow day at home, these powdered sugar-dusted treats bring warmth and cheer to any occasion. With their familiar gingerbread flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re sure to become a seasonal staple.

From their festive spice to their beautiful presentation, Gingerbread Snowballs offer everything you want in a holiday cookie: quick to make, fun to share, and irresistibly delicious.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Holiday Cookie You’ll Make Again and Again

With their nostalgic aroma, buttery texture, and festive powdered sugar coating, Gingerbread Snowballs are a holiday favorite for a reason. They’re simple to make, endlessly giftable, and deliver all the cozy spice of classic gingerbread in one delightful bite. Whether you’re baking for guests, sharing with neighbors, or just treating yourself, this recipe will quickly become a cherished part of your holiday baking tradition. Give these cookies a try, and you’ll find yourself returning to them year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gingerbread Snowballs

More Relevant Recipes

• Gingerbread White Chocolate Chip Cookies: A delightful variation on traditional gingerbread, these cookies blend classic warm spices with creamy white chocolate chips. Perfectly festive and chewy, they’re a delicious companion to Gingerbread Snowballs.
• Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies: These tart and citrusy snowball cookies are rolled in powdered sugar just like the classic recipe, but with a bright flavor twist. Great for holiday variety while keeping the snowball style.
• Pecan Pie Cookies: Rich, buttery, and filled with warm spiced pecan flavor, these bite-sized cookies evoke similar holiday vibes and offer a nutty complement to the soft texture of Gingerbread Snowballs.

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