Bake Delicious Gingerbread Snowball Cookies for the Holidays!

Ah, the enchanting aroma of warm spices and buttery richness – it can only mean one thing: it’s time to bake up a batch of Gingerbread Snowball Cookies! These delightful holiday treats are a must-have for any festive gathering, filling the air with the comforting scents of the season. With their soft, chewy centers and a snowy dusting of powdered sugar, these Gingerbread Snowball Cookies are sure to become a new family favorite.

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Ingredients for Gingerbread Snowball Cookies

To create the perfect Gingerbread Snowball Cookies, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup (57g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 tablespoon molasses
• 2 ¼ cups (279g) all-purpose flour
• Powdered sugar for rolling

With these classic spices and a touch of molasses, you’ll create a flavor profile that’s both warm and inviting – the perfect complement to the snowy exterior.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Gingerbread Snowball Cookies

Ready to bring the magic of Gingerbread Snowball Cookies to life? Follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat Oven: To 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make Dough: In a large bowl, cream together butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and molasses. Mix until combined. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
3. Shape Cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
4. Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
5. Roll in Powdered Sugar: While warm, roll cookies in powdered sugar. Once completely cooled, roll again for a snowy finish.
6. Serve & Enjoy: These Gingerbread Snowball Cookies are perfect for holiday treats or gifting!

Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Snowball Cookies

To ensure your Gingerbread Snowball Cookies turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and pliable, not too sticky or dry. Adjust the flour as needed to achieve the right texture.
• Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies during baking, as ovens can vary. The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers should still be soft.
• Powdered Sugar Coating: Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar first, then again once completely cooled for a thicker, snowier finish.
• Storage: Store the Gingerbread Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for longer storage.

Variations and Additions

While the classic Gingerbread Snowball Cookies are a holiday delight, you can also get creative with a few tasty twists:

• Nuts or Chocolate Chips: Fold in chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, or mini chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
• Spice Variations: Play with the spice blend by adjusting the amounts of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, or even adding a touch of cardamom or allspice.
• Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free: Substitute gluten-free flour or dairy-free butter to accommodate dietary needs.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Classic Gingerbread Cookies
• Snickerdoodle Snowball Cookies
• Spice Cake Cookies
• Molasses Cookies

FAQs about Gingerbread Snowball Cookies

What are snowball cookies?

Snowball cookies, also known as Mexican wedding cookies or Russian tea cakes, are a type of buttery, crumbly cookie that is shaped into a ball and then coated in powdered sugar, giving them a “snowy” appearance. They are a popular holiday treat with a tender, nutty flavor.

What are Italian snowball cookies called?

In Italy, snowball cookies are often referred to as “Baci di Dama,” which translates to “Lady’s Kisses.” These delicate cookies are made with ground nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, and have a similar crumbly texture to traditional snowball cookies.

What nationality are snowball cookies?

Snowball cookies have origins in various cultures, with similar versions found in many countries around the world. They are particularly popular in the Middle East, Latin America, Eastern Europe, and the United States, where they are often associated with Christmas and other holiday celebrations.

What’s the difference between ginger cookies and gingerbread cookies?

While both ginger cookies and gingerbread cookies contain ginger as a primary ingredient, there are some key differences. Ginger cookies typically have a more pronounced ginger flavor and a chewier texture, while gingerbread cookies often include additional spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and have a more cake-like texture.

Conclusion

There’s no better way to celebrate the holiday season than with a plate of warm, freshly baked Gingerbread Snowball Cookies. These delightful treats are the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and oh-so-snowy. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a cozy family gathering or packaging them up as thoughtful gifts, these Gingerbread Snowball Cookies are sure to bring joy and delight to all who taste them. So, preheat your oven, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a new holiday tradition with these irresistible cookies!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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