Gingerbread Snowball Cookies Recipe For Soft Spiced Treats

Name: Gingerbread Snowball Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (226g) softened butter Provides the rich, tender base and helps the cookies hold their shape without melting.; ½ cup (57g) powdered sugar, plus more for rolling Adds sweetness and creates the signature soft texture, while extra sugar gives the snowy coating.; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle warmth that ties the spices together.; ½ teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness and brings out the spices for a more rounded taste.; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Offers a warm, aromatic spice that forms the heart of the gingerbread flavor.; 1 teaspoon ground ginger Adds a zesty kick and depth, making these cookies distinctly gingerbread.; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg Contributes a nutty, slightly sweet note that complements the other spices.; ¼ teaspoon ground allspice Brings in a mix of flavors like clove and cinnamon for extra complexity.; ¼ teaspoon ground cloves Provides a bold, earthy spice that enhances the holiday vibe.; 1 tablespoon molasses Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like sweetness that balances the spices perfectly.; 2 ¼ cups (279g) all-purpose flour Forms the structure of the dough, giving the cookies their chewy texture.

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Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Snowball Cookies

Gingerbread Snowball Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines the warm, spicy flavors of gingerbread with the classic, melt-in-your-mouth texture of snowball cookies. These bite-sized delights are ready in just about 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. If you’re a home cook looking for something simple yet festive, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ease of preparation

One of the best things about Gingerbread Snowball Cookies is how quickly they come together, with just 20 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of baking. You don’t need fancy tools or advanced skills a basic electric mixer and some common pantry items do the trick. This simplicity makes it ideal for busy parents, students, or working professionals who want to enjoy baking without spending hours in the kitchen.

Health benefits

Each Gingerbread Snowball Cookie packs in about 60 calories, with 6g of carbohydrates, 1g of protein, and 4g of fat, making them a lighter option for those watching their diet. The spices like cinnamon and ginger add a boost of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which can support digestion and overall wellness. For diet-conscious individuals or health-focused bakers, this recipe uses basic ingredients that can be swapped for healthier alternatives, like reducing sugar for a lower-calorie version.

Versatility

These cookies adapt easily to various dietary needs, such as gluten-free flour for those with sensitivities or plant-based butter for vegans. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast experimenting with flavors or a senior looking for straightforward recipes, you can tweak the size for different yields, like making smaller cookies for kids. This flexibility lets you tailor the recipe to fit your lifestyle, from family events to solo treats.

Distinctive flavor

What sets Gingerbread Snowball Cookies apart is the rich blend of spices including cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves, balanced by the deep sweetness of molasses. This combination creates a warm, comforting taste that’s perfect for the holidays and stands out from plain snowball cookies. Food enthusiasts will appreciate how the powdered sugar coating adds a snowy, festive touch that enhances the overall experience. Altogether, this recipe brings joy and holiday cheer with its easy prep, health perks, adaptable options, and unique taste, making it a go-to for any occasion.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Snowball Cookies
2. Essential Ingredients for Gingerbread Snowball Cookies
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Gingerbread Snowball Cookies: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Protein and Main Component Alternatives
5. Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications
6. Mastering Gingerbread Snowball Cookies: Advanced Tips and Variations
7. How to Store Gingerbread Snowball Cookies: Best Practices
8. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Gingerbread Snowball Cookies
9. Gingerbread Snowball Cookies

Essential Ingredients for Gingerbread Snowball Cookies

To make these Gingerbread Snowball Cookies, you’ll need a few key items that blend together for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Below is a detailed list of all the ingredients, complete with precise measurements and a quick explanation of their role. Remember, accurate measuring using the spoon and level method ensures the best results.

1 cup (226g) softened butter Provides the rich, tender base and helps the cookies hold their shape without melting.
½ cup (57g) powdered sugar, plus more for rolling Adds sweetness and creates the signature soft texture, while extra sugar gives the snowy coating.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle warmth that ties the spices together.
½ teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness and brings out the spices for a more rounded taste.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Offers a warm, aromatic spice that forms the heart of the gingerbread flavor.
1 teaspoon ground ginger Adds a zesty kick and depth, making these cookies distinctly gingerbread.
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg Contributes a nutty, slightly sweet note that complements the other spices.
¼ teaspoon ground allspice Brings in a mix of flavors like clove and cinnamon for extra complexity.
¼ teaspoon ground cloves Provides a bold, earthy spice that enhances the holiday vibe.
1 tablespoon molasses Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like sweetness that balances the spices perfectly.
2 ¼ cups (279g) all-purpose flour Forms the structure of the dough, giving the cookies their chewy texture.

For special dietary options, consider these swaps: For vegan needs, use plant-based butter and ensure your powdered sugar is free of bone char. For gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If you’re aiming for low-calorie, reduce the butter slightly or use a sugar substitute, though this may change the texture.

Try our churro cheesecake cookies for another fun twist on spiced treats.

How to Prepare the Perfect Gingerbread Snowball Cookies: Step-by-Step Guide

Making Gingerbread Snowball Cookies is straightforward and fun, with steps that anyone can follow at home. This guide uses the provided directions to walk you through the process, including timing and tips for dietary tweaks. You’ll end up with about 48 cookies that capture the essence of the holidays.

First Step: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining two cookie sheets with parchment paper. This step takes just a minute or two and ensures even baking without sticking. For dietary preferences, use gluten-free parchment if needed to keep things adaptable.

Second Step: Cream the Butter

Beat the 1 cup (226g) softened butter with an electric mixer until it’s fluffy, which should take about 20 seconds. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the best results this helps create a light dough. If you’re vegan, swap in plant-based butter here to maintain the texture.

Third Step: Mix in the Sweeteners and Spices

Add 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, and 1 tablespoon molasses to the butter mixture. Mix everything until it’s smooth and well combined, about 1 minute. This is where the gingerbread magic happens, and you can adjust spices for a milder flavor if you’re cooking for kids.

Fourth Step: Incorporate the Flour

Gradually add 2 ¼ cups (279g) all-purpose flour to the mixture and keep mixing until a dough forms it might look crumbly at first, but that’s normal. Use a spoon to stir initially, then switch to the mixer; this usually takes another minute. For gluten-free options, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour to keep the cookies tender.

Fifth Step: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out 1 tablespoon of dough for each cookie and place them on the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. This portion size yields around 48 cookies, but you can make them smaller for more pieces or larger for heartier treats. If you’re watching calories, smaller sizes help control portions.

Sixth Step: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes until the bottoms are just lightly browned. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as this can dry them out they’re done when the edges are set but the centers are still soft. For low-calorie adaptations, you might reduce baking time slightly, but test one first.

Seventh Step: Cool and Coat

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool for about one minute until they’re easy to handle. Roll each warm cookie in powdered sugar to coat evenly, which helps the sugar stick and gives that snowy look. You can roll them again after full cooling for a thicker coating, and this step works well with sugar alternatives for dietary needs.

Final Step: Finishing Touches and Serving

Place the coated cookies on a wire rack to cool completely, which takes about 10-15 minutes. Once ready, serve them as a festive snack or dessert they’re perfect for holiday gatherings. This recipe’s quick total time of 30 minutes makes it ideal for busy parents or students, and you can store extras for later as discussed in the next section.

For more inspiration on cookie variations, check out our lemon oatmeal cookies recipe, which pairs well with holiday baking themes.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

When making Gingerbread Snowball Cookies, the main components like flour and butter can be swapped for dietary reasons. For instance, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour to boost protein and make it gluten-free, which adds a nutty flavor while keeping the cookies tender. If you’re looking to reduce fat, opt for Greek yogurt in place of some butter, though this might slightly alter the texture aim for half yogurt and half butter for balance.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Seasoning Tweaks

You can experiment with seasonings in Gingerbread Snowball Cookies by adjusting the spice mix, like using fresh grated ginger instead of ground for a sharper taste. For those with dietary restrictions, reduce cloves if they’re too strong, or add a pinch of cardamom for a unique twist that suits different preferences. This keeps the cookies versatile for various seasons, such as using milder spices in summer.

Sauce and Vegetable Ideas

While this recipe doesn’t include vegetables or sauces, you could incorporate elements like a fruit glaze for added moisture, such as a light berry sauce drizzled on top for a fresh variation. For health-conscious bakers, mix in grated zucchini for extra moisture and nutrients, though keep portions small to maintain the cookie’s texture. These modifications ensure the recipe remains adaptable for food enthusiasts or travelers seeking global flavors.

Mastering Gingerbread Snowball Cookies: Advanced Tips and Variations

Pro Cooking Techniques

To get the most out of your Gingerbread Snowball Cookies, focus on techniques like properly softening butter not melting it for a fluffier dough. Use a homemade spice mix with a ratio of 4 parts cinnamon, 2 parts nutmeg and ginger, and 1 part allspice and cloves to customize the flavor. For better results, measure ingredients accurately and mix gently to avoid overworking the dough, which can keep cookies soft and chewy.

Flavor Variations

Try adding chocolate chips for a richer version or swapping molasses with honey for a lighter taste that still captures the holiday spirit. If you’re catering to different diets, incorporate nuts like pecans for added protein, making it suitable for seniors or athletes. These changes let you create personalized batches that align with your family’s preferences.

Presentation Tips

Arrange the cookies on a festive platter and dust with extra powdered sugar for a snowy effect that impresses at parties. For newlyweds or baking enthusiasts, package them in decorative bags with ribbons to make thoughtful gifts. Simple touches like adding edible glitter can elevate the look without much effort.

Make-Ahead Options

Prepare the dough in advance and freeze it for up to a month, then bake as needed to save time during busy weeks. This is great for working professionals or students who want fresh cookies without daily prep. Overall, these tips help you refine the recipe for consistent success and creative fun.

How to Store Gingerbread Snowball Cookies: Best Practices

Refrigeration Guidelines

For short-term storage, keep Gingerbread Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness for 5 to 7 days. If your kitchen is warm, pop them in the fridge to prevent sogginess, but let them sit out for a few minutes before eating. This method works well for meal prep, ensuring you have treats ready for unexpected guests.

Freezing Options

To store for longer, freeze the cookies in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months, which is ideal for batch cooking ahead of holidays. Make sure they’re fully cooled before freezing to avoid condensation, and you can thaw them at room temperature when needed. This keeps the flavors intact and makes it easy for busy parents to have options on hand.

Reheating Tips

When reheating, warm the cookies in a low oven for a couple of minutes to refresh their texture without drying them out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them tough; instead, let them come to room temperature naturally for the best taste. These practices ensure safety and quality for all your storage needs.

This classic recipe is a favorite for its ease and flavor, as shared in resources like the best gingerbread cookies recipe online.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Gingerbread Snowball Cookies

What are Gingerbread Snowball Cookies and how do they differ from traditional snowball cookies?

Gingerbread Snowball Cookies are bite-sized, buttery cookies flavored with classic gingerbread spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, plus molasses. Unlike traditional snowball cookies that are usually plain or nut-flavored, these have a warm, spiced flavor profile. They are rolled in powdered sugar both before and after baking, giving them a snowy appearance perfect for the holiday season.

What ingredients do I need to make Gingerbread Snowballs from scratch?

To make Gingerbread Snowballs, you’ll need butter, powdered sugar (for dough and coating), vanilla extract, salt, molasses, all-purpose flour, and a gingerbread spice mix which typically includes cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. These ingredients combine to create the tender texture and distinctive gingerbread flavor of the cookies.

Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking Gingerbread Snowball Cookies?

No, chilling the dough is not required for this recipe. The dough can be mixed and baked immediately. This no-chill method saves time and still produces tender, well-shaped cookies. However, if you prefer firmer dough for handling, chilling it for 15-30 minutes is an option but not mandatory.

How can I tell when Gingerbread Snowball Cookies are perfectly baked?

Bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes. They are done when the bottoms are lightly browned and the edges look set but the centers are still a bit soft. Overbaking can cause them to dry out. After baking, roll them in powdered sugar while still warm for the best coating.

How should I store Gingerbread Snowball Cookies to keep them fresh?

Store Gingerbread Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 5 to 7 days. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread inside the container to absorb moisture. For longer storage, they can be frozen in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months and thawed at room temperature before serving.