Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic snowball cookie, combining the nutty flavor of peanut butter with bursts of chocolate chips. These cookies are buttery, tender, and coated in powdered sugar, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or as a cozy treat on a cold day. Their crumbly texture and rich flavors make them an instant favorite!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 cup powdered sugar, for rolling
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Cream Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and peanut butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Flour and Salt
Mix in the flour and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are lightly golden. The cookies will still be soft when you remove them from the oven.
Step 6: Cool and Coat in Powdered Sugar
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cookies are completely cool, roll them in powdered sugar until fully coated.
Cook Notes
- Butter and Peanut Butter: Make sure the butter and peanut butter are at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth dough.
- Coating in Powdered Sugar: For an extra snowy look, roll the cookies in powdered sugar a second time once they have cooled completely.
- Mini Chocolate Chips: Using mini chocolate chips ensures that the chocolate is evenly distributed throughout the dough. Regular-sized chips can be used but may make the cookies harder to shape.
Variations
1. Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs
Replace the mini chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer, slightly less sweet version that pairs wonderfully with the peanut butter.
2. Nutty Snowball Cookies
Add 1/2 cup finely chopped peanuts to the dough for an extra nutty crunch that enhances the peanut butter flavor.
3. White Chocolate Snowball Cookies
Replace the mini chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a sweeter variation that adds a nice contrast to the peanut butter.
Serving Suggestions
- With Hot Chocolate: These cookies are perfect for pairing with a warm cup of hot chocolate or coffee on a chilly day.
- Holiday Cookie Platter: Add these snowball cookies to a holiday cookie platter along with other favorites like sugar cookies and gingerbread for a festive display.
- Gift Idea: Package these cookies in a decorative tin or bag and give them as a homemade holiday gift to friends and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, roll the dough into balls and bake as directed.
How Do I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but make sure it is well mixed before using, as the oil separation can affect the texture of the cookies.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a fun and delicious twist on traditional snowball cookies. With their rich peanut butter flavor, bursts of chocolate, and a coating of powdered sugar, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering or as a cozy treat for yourself. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in every bite!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
