If you’re in the mood for a rich and indulgent treat, then these Chocolate Snowball Cookies with White Chocolate Center are going to be your new favorite dessert. Perfect for the holiday season or just a cozy night at home, these cookies bring together the best of both worlds: rich chocolate flavor and a delightful surprise in the center. Each cookie features a fudgy chocolate exterior, rolled in powdered sugar, that gives way to a gooey, creamy white chocolate filling. The contrast between the dark cocoa and the sweet white chocolate makes every bite a delightful experience.
With their beautiful presentation and delicious taste, these cookies are ideal for cookie exchanges or festive gatherings. They are surprisingly easy to make too! Just a few simple steps will lead you to a batch of these delectable cookies. The recipe includes a chilling period for the dough, which ensures that the cookies hold their shape when baked, resulting in perfectly round treats. Whether you’re making them for a celebration or just to satisfy your own sweet craving, you won’t regret adding this recipe to your collection.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Snowball Cookies with White Chocolate Center
Chocolate Snowball Cookies are not just eye-catching; they are bursting with flavor and make a fabulous addition to any dessert spread. Here are some reasons why you will absolutely adore these cookies:
- Rich Flavor: The combination of unsweetened cocoa powder and sweet white chocolate creates a perfectly balanced taste.
- Festive Appeal: Rolled in powdered sugar, they look like little snowballs, perfect for holiday occasions.
- Quick Prep Time: With a total time of just 32 minutes, plus chill time, you can whip these up without taking an entire day.
- Fun Activity: A great project to do with kids or friends, making these cookies is a joyful experience.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
To ensure a smooth baking process, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen workspace. Start by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out beforehand to streamline the process. You will need a medium bowl for the dry ingredients and a large bowl for the wet ingredients, alongside a whisk, spatula, and an electric mixer. Line several baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and prepare for easy cleanup. Make sure to have a cooling rack ready for the cookies after they are baked. The most vital tool, of course, is your oven, so preheat it to 350°F (175°C) to ensure optimum baking conditions.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 20–24 pieces white chocolate chunks or buttons
- 1 cup powdered sugar, for coating
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
Begin by whisking together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and the cocoa, which is crucial for the proper rise and rich flavor of the cookies.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes and incorporates air, which is essential for a soft cookie.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This gradual incorporation helps maintain the fluffy texture. Then, stir in the pure vanilla extract to add that warm, sweet flavor.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, beating slowly until everything is combined and a thick dough forms. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to scoop and shape into balls.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Once the dough has chilled, scoop out portions and flatten slightly. Place a piece of white chocolate in the center and then mold the dough around it, rolling it into a ball.
Step 7: Coat with Powdered Sugar
Generously roll each dough ball in powdered sugar until fully coated. This not only adds sweetness but also gives the cookies their beautiful snowy appearance.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Arrange the coated balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set. The centers will remain soft and chewy, which is just perfect!
Step 9: Cool and Serve
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them firm up while still warm.
Variations
- Protein: You can incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy contrast.
- Vegetables: For a twist, add a touch of shredded zucchini for moisture.
- Spices: Experiment with cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an unexpected kick.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming.
- For extra gooey filling, try using larger chunks of white chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
- These cookies are delicious served warm with a glass of milk or hot cocoa.
- They make fabulous gifts when packed in a decorative tin.
Tips
- Keep the dough covered when chilling to prevent drying out.
- If you want to make the dough ahead of time, it can be refrigerated overnight.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes (plus chill time)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 120 per cookie
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for a sweeter taste, but it will alter the overall flavor of the cookie.
How long can I store these cookies?
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough for up to three months. Just thaw before scooping and baking.
What can I do if my cookies flatten out during baking?
If your cookies spread too much, ensure that your butter was at the right temperature and that you properly chilled the dough before baking.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Snowball Cookies with White Chocolate Center are a delightful treat that’s sure to impress everyone at your holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. Their rich flavor, easy preparation, and festive looks make them a must-try dessert. Don’t forget to experiment with your variations and put your distinct twist on them. We’d love to hear how your cookies turn out, so please leave a comment, share your tips, or even share some variations you’ve tried. Happy baking!
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Chocolate Snowball Cookies with White Chocolate Center
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
These Chocolate Snowball Cookies with White Chocolate Center are a rich, indulgent treat perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 20–24 pieces white chocolate chunks or buttons
- 1 cup powdered sugar, for coating
Instructions
- Begin by whisking together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), scoop dough, place white chocolate in the center, and roll into a ball.
- Coat each ball in powdered sugar.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set, centers remain soft.
- Cool on wire racks.
Notes
Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. For extra gooey filling, try using larger chunks of white chocolate.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 120 per cookie
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Protein: 2 g