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Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies Recipe

4.8 from 101 reviews

These melt-in-your-mouth Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are buttery, nutty (optional), and coated in a warm, sweet cinnamon sugar layer. Perfect for the holidays or anytime you need a cozy treat, these cookies offer a soft, crumbly texture with a delightful cinnamon twist.

Ingredients

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For the Cookies:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Make the Cookie Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix thoroughly. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cinnamon, mixing until the dough is soft and smooth. Fold in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts if using.
  2. Shape the Cookies: Scoop out the dough and roll it into 1-inch balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheets spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for even baking.
  3. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden while the tops remain pale. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool slightly.
  4. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: While the cookies are still warm, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Gently roll the warm cookies in this cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated, ensuring a generous dusting.

Notes

  • Double Coating: For extra sweetness, roll the cookies in the cinnamon sugar mixture again after they’ve completely cooled.
  • Nut-Free Option: Omit the nuts for a smooth, buttery cookie.
  • Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and achieve firmer cookies.
  • Check for Doneness: Cookies should be golden on the bottoms and firm to the touch on top.
  • Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform size and even baking.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
  • Freeze uncoated cookies for up to 3 months; thaw then coat with cinnamon sugar before serving.

Keywords: Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, holiday cookies, cinnamon cookies, nutty cookies, easy baking recipe, Christmas cookie recipe