Peppermint Bark Snowballs Recipe

Peppermint Bark Snowballs Recipe

As the cold air comes and lights brighten the streets, it’s time to bake. Peppermint snowballs mix mint and chocolate, bringing holiday joy. Imagine the smell of chocolate and peppermint in your kitchen.

These mint chocolate cookies are sweet and perfect for holidays. They make any celebration sweeter.

Making these snowballs with loved ones is special. Each bite is warm and cheerful. It creates memories that last.

Let’s make these treats and enjoy the holiday spirit!

Peppermint Bark Snowballs Recipe

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 24-30 cookies


Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

  • Unsalted butter: 1 cup (softened)
  • Granulated sugar: ¾ cup
  • Powdered sugar: 1 cup (divided)
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
  • All-purpose flour: 2 cups
  • Cocoa powder: ¼ cup (unsweetened)
  • Crushed peppermint candies: 1 cup (plus extra for garnish)
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon

Optional Add-ins

  • Dark, milk, or white chocolate chips: ½ cup
  • Finely chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts): ½ cup

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Add ½ cup powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix well.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  4. Fold in crushed peppermint candies and optional chocolate chips or nuts if desired.
  5. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.

Step 3: Bake

  1. Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain slightly soft.
  2. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Coat the Cookies

  1. Place the remaining ½ cup of powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Roll each cooled cookie in the powdered sugar to coat completely.
  2. For a festive touch, sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candies on top while the powdered sugar is still fresh.

Serving Suggestions

  • Arrange the snowballs on a holiday-themed platter or in decorative tins for gifting.
  • Pair with hot cocoa, eggnog, or a peppermint latte for a cozy treat.

Tips for Success

  • Chill the Dough: This step ensures the cookies maintain their shape and prevents spreading.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh peppermint candies and high-quality cocoa powder enhance flavor.
  • Double Coat: For an extra snowy look, roll the cookies in powdered sugar a second time before serving.

Storage Instructions

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
  • Refrigeration: Extend freshness by storing in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
  • Freezing: Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Creative Variations

  1. Chocolate Peppermint Twist: Use white chocolate chips in the dough for a sweeter contrast.
  2. Nutty Peppermint: Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
  3. Snowflake Design: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the snowballs for a decorative touch

Key Takeaways

  • Peppermint Bark Snowballs combine mint and chocolate, making them a tasty holiday dessert.
  • This recipe is perfect for festive gatherings and family celebrations.
  • Making these peppermint snowballs is a fun activity that everyone can enjoy.
  • The snowballs are easy to prepare and can be customized with optional ingredients.
  • Sharing these treats is a delightful way to spread holiday cheer!

Introduction to Peppermint Bark Snowballs

Peppermint Bark Snowballs are a fun treat for the holiday season. They mix chocolate’s richness with peppermint’s coolness. This mix is loved by everyone, making them perfect for family fun.

These cookies have a long history in holiday treats. They’re easy to make and always a hit. Adding peppermint gives them a new twist, making them even more special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Making peppermint bark snowballs is fun for any party. It mixes chocolate and peppermint in a special way. This recipe is easy, so even beginners can make a great dessert for the holidays.

Perfect for Holiday Celebrations

These snowballs are great for holiday parties and family get-togethers. They look and taste amazing, bringing joy to everyone. Sharing these treats adds to the holiday cheer.

Great for Sharing with Friends and Family

Cookie sharing is a holiday tradition. Making these snowballs helps us connect with our loved ones. They’re perfect for gifts or at parties, bringing people together.

Ingredients for Peppermint Bark Snowballs

Making peppermint bark snowballs is fun. You need the right ingredients. These ingredients make your treat special.

Essential Ingredients List

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup crushed peppermint candy
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

Want to make your cookies special? Try these:

  • Different types of chocolate: milk, dark, or white
  • Nuts: finely chopped pecans or walnuts
  • A dash of cinnamon or peppermint extract for an extra kick

These extras add flavor. They let you make your snowballs just how you like them.

IngredientMeasurementType
Unsalted Butter1 cupEssential
Powdered Sugar2 cupsEssential
All-Purpose Flour3 cupsEssential
Crushed Peppermint Candy1 cupEssential
Vanilla Extract2 teaspoonsEssential
Chocolate (optional)Your preferenceOptional
Nuts (optional)Your preferenceOptional

Peppermint Bark Snowballs Recipe

Gather your loved ones and get ready to make some delightful Peppermint Bark Snowballs. This easy cookie recipe turns simple ingredients into a festive dessert. It’s perfect for any holiday gathering. Below are the exact ingredients needed to bring these snowballs to life.

Peppermint Bark Snowballs

IngredientAmount
Unsalted Butter1 cup (softened)
Granulated Sugar3/4 cup
Powdered Sugar1 cup
Vanilla Extract1 teaspoon
All-Purpose Flour2 cups
Cocoa Powder1/4 cup
Crushed Peppermint Candies1 cup
Salt1/2 teaspoon

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s have some fun making these Peppermint Bark Snowballs. This cookie recipe fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. It creates a joyous atmosphere perfect for celebrating with family and friends. Enjoy the simple pleasure of baking together!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Peppermint Bark Snowballs is fun. Follow these steps for a great result. It’s a fun dessert baking adventure.

Preparing the Dough

Start by mixing 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 2 cups of all-purpose flour slowly. This makes a soft dough.

Optional, add 1 cup of crushed peppermint for extra flavor. Make small balls, about 1 inch big. Put them on a lined baking sheet.

Baking the Snowballs

Heat your oven to 350°F. Bake the cookie balls for 12-15 minutes until they’re lightly golden. Watch them closely to prevent overbaking.

Let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack.

Coating the Snowballs

When the snowballs cool, it’s time to finish them. Mix powdered sugar in one bowl and additional crushed peppermint in another. Roll each cookie in powdered sugar well.

Then, sprinkle crushed peppermint on top. This makes them look and taste great.

Tips for Perfecting Your Snowballs

To make Peppermint Bark Snowballs perfect, chill the dough first. This step makes the flavors mix well. It makes each snowball taste better.

Using the best ingredients is key. Choose top-notch chocolate and vanilla for a richer taste. Fresh peppermint candies add a fun crunch.

Watch your snowballs while they bake. Over-baking makes them dry. But baking them a bit less keeps them soft and chewy. Look for a light golden color on the edges.

Try new things in your holiday baking. Use different chocolates or add toppings like coconut or nuts. It makes your snowballs special.

TipDescription
Chill the DoughRefrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to enhance flavors.
Use Quality IngredientsOpt for high-grade chocolate and fresh peppermint for the best taste.
Avoid Over-BakingCheck cookies for a light golden edge, ensuring they remain soft.
Get CreativeTry different chocolate styles and toppings to make the recipe your own.

Follow these tips to make your holiday baking better. You’ll get perfect cookies every time.

Creative Variations to Try

Try new things with your Peppermint Bark Snowballs. It’s fun to make them your own. You can try different chocolate flavors and add festive toppings.

Using Different Flavors of Chocolate

Try different chocolates for a new taste. You can use:

  • Dark chocolate for a deep flavor.
  • White chocolate for sweetness and a nice contrast.
  • Milk chocolate for a classic taste that goes well with peppermint.

Each chocolate makes the snowballs taste special in its own way.

Incorporating Additional Toppings

Make them fun with toppings. You can add:

  • Colorful sprinkles for a festive look.
  • Coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
  • Crushed nuts for a crunchy bite.

These toppings make your snowballs unique. They’re perfect for any special occasion or a cozy night at home.

Storing Peppermint Bark Snowballs

Keeping your Peppermint Bark Snowballs fresh is key. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This way, they stay tasty and soft for up to a week.

If you want to keep them longer, the fridge is a good choice. It adds a few more days to enjoy these treats.

Don’t stack your cookies too high. The pretty coating can get crushed. Use parchment paper between layers to keep them looking great.

Here’s a quick guide for keeping your treats fresh:

Storage MethodDurationNotes
Airtight Container (Room Temperature)Up to 1 weekSoft and fresh with flavor
RefrigerationUp to 2 weeksLonger shelf life but may alter texture
Freezing (for Long-term Storage)Up to 3 monthsThaw at room temperature before serving
cookie storage

Serving Suggestions

Peppermint Bark Snowballs are perfect for holiday gatherings. They look great on festive platters. Use holiday-themed containers like snowman tins for a fun touch.

How to Present Them Festively

Here are some tips for a beautiful display:

  • Put the snowballs on a cake stand with greens or ornaments.
  • Just before serving, dust with powdered sugar for a winter look.
  • Add fresh cranberries or mint sprigs for color.

Pairing with Holiday Drinks

Pairing your cookies with holiday drinks is fun. Here are some good choices:

Holiday DrinkWhy It Pairs Well
Hot CocoaThe chocolate and peppermint flavors go well together.
EggnogThe creamy eggnog contrasts nicely with the crunchy cookies.
Peppermint LatteThe peppermint in the latte makes the cookies even more festive.

Why This Recipe is Fun for Everyone

Making Peppermint Bark Snowballs is a fun family activity. It lets everyone, big and small, join in the fun. They can mix, roll, and shape the snowballs together.

Decorating the cookies makes it even more exciting. Use toppings like crushed candy canes and sprinkles. Let each person decorate their own snowball. It’s a great way to make memories and have fun.

Baking together adds joy to the holiday season. Play festive music while you bake. It makes the snowballs special, showing love and togetherness.

Benefits of Baking TogetherExamples
Encourages TeamworkEveryone works together to create a delicious treat.
Boosts CreativityUnique cookie decorating styles and flavor variations.
Strengthens Family BondsSharing laughs and stories while baking.
Create Lasting MemoriesDocument the fun through photos and shared experiences.

Peppermint Bark Snowballs bring joy to your holiday. They make baking a special family moment.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Many readers loved the Peppermint Bark Snowballs recipe. They said it tastes great and looks festive. This makes it a favorite holiday treat.

People enjoyed how simple the recipe is. They said things like

“These were so easy to make, and the kids loved them!”

“A delicious burst of flavor in every bite! They disappeared quickly at our holiday party.”

This shows how well the recipe works at parties, adding to the fun.

Some bakers suggested changes, like using dark chocolate or more peppermint. These ideas show a sense of community. They make baking a fun team effort, leading to more tasty creations.

Conclusion

As we finish our holiday baking recap, Peppermint Bark Snowballs are a favorite. This peppermint cookie recipe is easy and very tasty. It mixes rich chocolate with cool peppermint, perfect for the holiday season.

Making these snowballs is fun and lets you get creative. You can try new flavors and toppings. It’s a great way to bring people together, making memories as you bake.

We hope you’re inspired to make these treats and share them. Let your holiday baking be joyful and filled with laughter. Enjoy making and sharing your Peppermint Bark Snowballs this season.

FAQ

What are Peppermint Bark Snowballs?

Peppermint Bark Snowballs are yummy holiday treats. They mix chocolate with peppermint for a fun taste. These small cookies are great for parties and everyone loves them.

How do I make Peppermint Bark Snowballs?

To make these treats, you need butter, powdered sugar, peppermint candy, and vanilla. Just follow the simple steps in the recipe. You’ll make the dough, bake the cookies, and then coat them in sugar.

Can I customize the Peppermint Bark Snowballs?

Yes! You can try different chocolates like dark or white. Adding sprinkles, nuts, or coconut flakes can make them even better.

How should I store Peppermint Bark Snowballs?

Keep them fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for a week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them. Use parchment paper between layers to keep the sugar on top.

What are some serving suggestions for Peppermint Bark Snowballs?

Show them off on a pretty platter or in holiday containers. They’re great with hot cocoa, eggnog, or peppermint lattes. It’s a tasty way to enjoy the holiday.

Why is this recipe great for family baking activities?

This recipe is perfect for family fun. It lets everyone get creative and decorate cookies. It’s a special time that everyone will remember.

What kind of feedback have others given about this recipe?

People love the Peppermint Bark Snowballs for their taste and easy making. They say these cookies are a hit at any party. They bring joy and festive cheer.

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