Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of a cookie that perfectly balances rich peanut butter, bursts of chocolate, and a delightful snowy coating of powdered sugar, then this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. These cookies are tender, buttery, and so wonderfully crumbly that every bite feels like a little celebration. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’re about to create a treat that’s not only delicious but also impressively easy to whip up, perfect for sharing with friends or keeping all to yourself!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a joyful step because each one plays a crucial role in making these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe truly unforgettable. From the creamy butter and peanut butter to the sweet vanilla and bright mini chocolate chips, every item adds a layer of charm and flavor that you’ll love.
- Unsalted butter, 1 cup softened: Provides richness and a tender crumb, allowing you full control over saltiness.
- Creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup: Adds nutty flavor and moisture for that classic peanut butter cookie taste.
- Powdered sugar, 1/2 cup plus extra for rolling: Sweetens gently and creates the iconic snowball finish on the cookies.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, inviting aroma.
- All-purpose flour, 2 cups: The foundation that brings the dough together with just the right bite.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Balances the sweetness and deepens the complexity of flavors.
- Mini chocolate chips, 1 cup: Tiny bursts of chocolate that melt delightfully with every nibble.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Peanut Butter
Start by blending the softened unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter until smooth and fluffy. This will create the perfect creamy base that gives the cookies their melt-in-your-mouth texture and scrumptious peanut flavor that shines through every bite.
Step 2: Add the Sugar and Vanilla
Next, mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. The powdered sugar doesn’t just sweeten—it also contributes to that soft, delicate texture, while the vanilla adds a warm layer of depth to the flavor profile that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. This step ensures the flour is evenly distributed so each cookie has the perfect crumbly texture without any uneven salt pockets.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Ingredients
Gently fold the flour mixture into the butter and peanut butter mix. Stir just until combined—the goal is to maintain the dough’s tender texture without overmixing, which can lead to tougher cookies.
Step 5: Add Mini Chocolate Chips
Fold in the mini chocolate chips delicately. These little gems will create sweet pockets of melty chocolate in every cookie bite, elevating this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe to a new level of indulgence.
Step 6: Shape and Chill Dough
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to chill. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances the texture.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled dough balls for 10-12 minutes, just until the edges start to turn golden but the centers remain soft. This quick baking keeps them tender yet firm enough to hold the snowball form.
Step 8: Roll in Powdered Sugar
While still warm, carefully roll the cookies in additional powdered sugar so they develop their signature snowy coat. This final touch adds sweetness and a beautiful finish that will make you smile with each cookie.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra sprinkle of charm, dust a bit more powdered sugar on top right before serving, or add chopped roasted peanuts for a subtle crunch. A tiny drizzle of melted chocolate over the top can also add a dazzling touch that complements the mini chips inside.
Side Dishes
Serve these cookies alongside a cold glass of milk or a rich cup of coffee or hot chocolate. The creamy drinks balance the cookie’s sweetness perfectly, making every bite feel indulgently soothing and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these snowball cookies on a festive platter with sprigs of fresh mint or edible flowers for a seasonal touch. You can also stack them in a rustic tin wrapped with a ribbon for a charming homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to a week, which means you can enjoy their warm, peanut buttery goodness long after baking day.
Freezing
To preserve extra batches, freeze the shaped dough balls or baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen dough lasts up to three months and can be baked straight from the freezer, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Warm frozen or stored cookies in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for 5-7 minutes to refresh their soft texture, or pop them in the microwave for 15 seconds if you’re in a hurry. Enjoy them slightly warm for the best flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture and extra nutty flavor to your cookies. Just know that it might make the dough a little chunkier, which can be a delicious twist to the classic recipe.
What if I don’t have mini chocolate chips?
No worries! Regular-sized chocolate chips can be chopped into smaller pieces to mimic the mini chips, or you can use any chocolate chunks you have on hand. The cookie’s texture might change slightly, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
How do I make sure my cookies are perfectly round?
Chilling the dough balls before baking is key to keeping their shape. Make sure to roll them tightly and evenly sized, then place them on the baking sheet spaced apart. Avoid flattening them before baking to keep the lovely snowball shape.
Can I substitute the flour for a gluten-free version?
Yes, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just be mindful that sometimes texture changes a bit, but these cookies generally adapt well and remain delicious—perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
Why do I need to roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice?
Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar before and after baking gives them that signature snowball look and that soft, delicate sweetness on the outside. It’s a simple step that turns ordinary cookies into something truly special.
Final Thoughts
Making this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe is a joyful experience from start to finish. With its irresistible combo of nutty peanut butter, sweet chocolate chips, and that classic snowy coating, it quickly becomes a kitchen favorite. I can’t wait for you to try them and share the simple magic of these melt-in-your-mouth cookies with your loved ones!
Print
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a delightful twist on classic snowball cookies, combining the richness of creamy peanut butter with sweet mini chocolate chips. They are soft, buttery, and coated in powdered sugar to create a perfect melt-in-your-mouth treat ideal for holiday baking or any sweet craving.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
Add-ins
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Cream Butter and Peanut Butter: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated into the creamed butter and peanut butter mixture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt to evenly distribute the salt through the flour.
- Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or folding gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix to maintain tender cookies.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the mini chocolate chips into the cookie dough until evenly distributed.
- Form Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to turn a light golden brown, but the cookies still look soft.
- Cool and Roll in Powdered Sugar: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. While still warm, gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat it thoroughly, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For best results, use softened butter at room temperature to achieve a creamy dough.
- Ensure not to overbake to keep the cookies soft inside.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- To avoid excess sweetness, use mini chocolate chips instead of regular-sized chips for better distribution.
- If peanut allergies are a concern, try substituting peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
