The Ultimate Recipe for Fluffy, Buttery Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

There are certain cookies that instantly transport you back to childhood, conjuring images of snowy days, cozy kitchens, and the warm aroma of baking spices. For many, that cookie is the classic Snowball or Russian Tea Cake. But allow us to introduce you to their superior, spicier cousin: the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies. These delicate, buttery morsels boast a signature melt-in-your-mouth texture, loaded with crunchy pecans or walnuts, and are finished with a double-roll coating of sweet, aromatic cinnamon sugar that truly mimics freshly fallen snow.

If you thought the traditional snowball cookie was perfection, prepare to be amazed. The addition of cinnamon to the final dusting cuts through the richness of the butter and enhances the flavor profile of the nuts, creating an irresistibly festive treat perfect for holiday platters, cookie exchanges, or just a quiet afternoon indulgence. This recipe is simple, straightforward, and guaranteed to deliver batch after batch of perfect, crumbly, and utterly addictive cookies. We will walk you through the essential steps, from achieving the perfect dough consistency to mastering the critical double-roll technique that gives these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies their iconic look and flavor.

Why You’ll Instantly Love These Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

These aren’t just cookies; they are edible little clouds of comfort. The charm of the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies lies in their deceptively simple appearance and complex, deeply satisfying flavor profile. If you value texture and flavor depth in your baking, this recipe will quickly become a cornerstone of your repertoire. Here’s a detailed look at why these cookies earn rave reviews and disappear from cooling racks almost instantly:

Unbeatable Texture: The Signature Melt-in-Your-Mouth Crumb

The defining characteristic of any great snowball cookie is its texture. Because this recipe relies on powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar) in the dough rather than granulated sugar, the resulting bake is incredibly tender and crumbly. Granulated sugar tends to promote spreading and structure, but powdered sugar ensures that the final cookie remains delicate and practically dissolves on your tongue. This melt-away quality, contrasted with the satisfying crunch of finely chopped nuts, is what makes these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies impossible to resist.

The Perfect Marriage of Spices and Sweetness

Traditional snowball cookies are coated purely in powdered sugar, offering intense sweetness. Our rendition elevates this classic by incorporating ground cinnamon into the coating. Cinnamon is not just a holiday spice; it is a profound flavor enhancer. The warmth of the cinnamon balances the richness of the butter and the earthy tones of the pecans or walnuts. When you take a bite, you first experience the subtle heat and spice of the cinnamon sugar, followed by the rich, buttery flavor of the cookie dough, creating a harmonious and addictive flavor experience that is far superior to the basic recipe. This spiced dusting makes them suitable year-round, not just for Christmas cookie trays.

Effortless Elegance and Visual Appeal

The appearance of these cookies is undeniably charming. After the critical second roll, the cookies are perfectly spherical and coated in a thick, snowy layer that truly earns them the “snowball” moniker. The pale interior contrasting with the slightly spiced, bright white coating makes them look elegant and festive. They are a guaranteed centerpiece for any dessert platter. Furthermore, they are incredibly easy to transport and ship, making them perfect for sharing the holiday cheer with distant loved ones.

The minimal effort required to achieve such a stunning result is another huge draw. With just a few basic pantry staples butter, flour, powdered sugar, and spices you can create a gourmet-quality treat. Unlike cut-out cookies or elaborate frosted creations, these simply require mixing, chilling, rolling, and dusting. This makes them ideal for beginner bakers or those short on time during busy seasons. The simple magic of making these buttery, spiced Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies is something every home baker should experience.

The Magic Behind the Double Roll: Why You Must Try This Recipe Today

While the ingredients list for these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies looks straightforward, the success of the recipe hinges on two crucial, often overlooked techniques: chilling the dough and the dual coating process. Understanding the ‘why’ behind these steps will ensure your cookies are perfect every time beautifully shaped, delightfully crumbly, and generously coated.

The Crucial Chill Time

Our recipe calls for a minimum 30-minute chill time, and this is non-negotiable for success. Snowball cookies are characterized by their high butter content, which is necessary for the delicate, crumbly structure. However, soft dough spreads rapidly in a hot oven, turning your perfect spheres into flat, amorphous blobs. Chilling the dough ensures the butter solidifies, allowing the cookies to hold their rounded shape during the initial minutes of baking. This guarantees the uniform, spherical shape required for the perfect snowball look. If you skip this step, you risk flattening and over-baking the edges before the center is set.

For even more structure and easier handling, feel free to chill the dough for longer up to an hour, or even overnight. Just remember to let the dough sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before rolling if it’s been chilled for an extended period, making it easier to portion and shape.

Mastering the Double Coating Technique

The cinnamon sugar coating is the crowning glory of these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies. We utilize a two-step rolling process, which is essential to achieve that thick, snowy appearance and maximize flavor delivery:

1. The First Roll (Warm): This occurs immediately after the cookies are pulled from the oven, typically after cooling for just 2 to 3 minutes. The cookies are still very warm and slightly sticky on the surface. When rolled in the cinnamon sugar mixture at this stage, the residual heat slightly melts the powdered sugar, allowing it to adhere tightly to the buttery surface. This creates a foundational layer of flavor and ensures the sugar doesn’t just fall off.
2. The Second Roll (Cool): This roll happens once the cookies are completely cooled, typically 30 to 45 minutes later. During the cooling process, the foundational layer of sugar from the first roll fuses with the cookie’s exterior. The second roll adds a fresh, thick, and perfectly opaque dusting of cinnamon sugar. This final layer is what provides the characteristic “snowy” appearance and delivers the satisfying explosion of sweet spice when you take your first bite.

It’s tempting to skip the second roll, especially if you are short on time, but trust the process. The double roll is the secret to that classic, impressive look and the intense flavor of perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.

Looking for more classic holiday recipes that require minimal fuss but deliver maximum flavor? You might want to check out our recipe for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies another easy, decadent winner for your festive cookie platter!

Essential Ingredients and Tools for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Success in baking often comes down to preparation and using quality ingredients. While this recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies is simple, understanding the role of each component and having the right tools makes the process smoother and the results flawless. We’ve broken down the necessary supplies to ensure your snowball cookies are truly exceptional.

Ingredients Breakdown with Tips and Measurements

Precise measurements are critical in baking, especially for low-moisture, high-fat doughs like these. Use standard measuring cups and spoons, and always level off your flour.

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter: Must be softened to room temperature. This is essential for proper creaming. If your butter is too cold, the dough will be dense; if it’s melted, the cookies will spread. Room temperature butter (soft enough to easily dent, but not greasy) creams properly with the sugar, incorporating air and resulting in a lighter, fluffier cookie dough base.
• ½ cup Granulated Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): This sugar is key to the tenderness. Using powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar prevents the dough from developing gluten too aggressively and avoids the sharp, structured edges typical of many cookies, leading to that beloved crumbly texture.
• 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract: Use pure extract for the best flavor depth. Vanilla enhances the buttery notes and complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour: Make sure to measure using the spoon-and-level method. Spoon the flour lightly into your measuring cup and then level the excess off with a straight edge. Do not scoop directly from the bag, as this compacts the flour, resulting in a dense, dry cookie.
• ¼ teaspoon Salt: Salt is crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 1 cup Finely Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (Optional, but highly recommended): The nuts provide necessary structure, texture, and an earthy flavor that grounds the sweetness. They must be finely chopped large pieces will make the dough difficult to roll into smooth spheres and may cause the cookies to crack. Toasting the nuts lightly before chopping is an expert tip for intensifying their flavor!

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 2 cups Granulated Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): Yes, you need a full two cups! The double-roll technique requires a generous amount to achieve that perfect “snowy” coating.
• 2 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon: Use fresh, high-quality ground cinnamon. The aroma and warmth of the cinnamon are central to the identity of these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.

Recommended Tools and Utensils for Recipe Success

While this is a straightforward recipe, having the right equipment ensures efficiency and consistency:

• Stand Mixer or Electric Hand Mixer: While you can technically make the dough by hand, creaming the butter and sugar effectively requires a mixer. A stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment is ideal for achieving the light and fluffy texture needed.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining the wet ingredients and a separate medium bowl for whisking the dry ingredients.
• Rubber Spatula: Necessary for scraping down the bowl during mixing and gently folding in the nuts at the end.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy in ingredient amounts.
• Baking Sheets: Two large baking sheets are ideal for baking in batches.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: Highly recommended. These prevent sticking and ensure even heat distribution, making cleanup a breeze.
• Small Cookie Scoop (1-inch/rounded tablespoon): This tool is vital for uniform cookie size, which guarantees even baking. A consistent size is key to perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.
• Wire Cooling Rack: Needed for cooling the cookies after the first roll and before the second roll.
• Shallow Dish or Pie Plate: This is the perfect container for mixing and holding the cinnamon sugar coating, allowing easy rolling.

Investing in quality ingredients and the right tools streamlines the baking process, transforming it from a chore into a delightful experience, particularly when tackling delicate doughs like this one. Remember, preparation is the first step to enjoying perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies!

Find more great baking ideas on our Pinterest page!

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking the Best Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Achieving the perfect, crumbly texture and flawless cinnamon sugar coating requires attention to detail during the mixing and rolling phases. Follow these detailed steps precisely, and you will be rewarded with the best batch of Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies you’ve ever tasted.

Phase 1: Preparing the Dough (The Foundation)

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to a precise 350°F (175°C). Temperature control is important for snowball cookies to prevent excess spreading. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Set aside.
2. Cream the Fats and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup of softened butter and the ½ cup of powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer (or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment), cream the mixture until it is noticeably light and fluffy. This process takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently. The texture should be almost pale yellow and airy this aeration is essential for a tender cookie.
3. Add Flavoring: Beat in the 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until just combined. Overmixing the vanilla is unnecessary; mix only until it disappears into the butter mixture.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour and the ¼ teaspoon of salt. Whisking ensures the salt is evenly distributed.
5. Mix Dough: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on the lowest speed possible. Continue mixing only until the dough just comes together. The dough will be thick and slightly stiff. Stop immediately once no streaks of dry flour remain. Overmixing at this stage develops gluten, leading to tough cookies, which is the opposite of the desired melt-in-your-mouth texture of Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.
6. Fold in Nuts (if using): If using the optional pecans or walnuts, gently fold the finely chopped nuts into the dough using a rubber spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
7. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes. This critical step solidifies the butter, which prevents the cookies from spreading and guarantees those perfect round shapes.

Phase 2: Baking and Rolling (The Critical Finish)

8. Shape the Cookies: Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Using a small cookie scoop or rounded tablespoon, portion the dough. Roll each portion firmly between your palms to form smooth, uniform balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Uniformity is key for even baking. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
9. Bake: Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes. The exact timing depends on your oven and cookie size. You are looking for the bottoms to be very lightly golden brown. The cookies themselves should still appear pale white on top. Do not wait for them to brown completely, as this indicates over-baking.
10. Prepare Coating: While the cookies are baking, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a shallow dish, such as a pie plate or wide bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of powdered sugar and the 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon until fully combined. This mixture must be ready immediately when the cookies come out of the oven.
11. First Roll (Warm and Essential): Immediately upon removing the baking sheet from the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for only 2 to 3 minutes. They must still be very warm. While warm, gently roll each cookie entirely in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. Handle them gently, as they are fragile when hot. The warmth encourages the sugar to stick securely. Return these coated cookies to the baking sheet or a wire rack.
12. Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack for about 30 to 45 minutes. Cooling thoroughly allows the residual heat to finish setting the interior and solidifies the first sugar layer.
13. Second Roll (The Snowy Finish): Once the cookies are entirely cool, roll them a second time in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This is the roll that creates the signature thick, snowy, and incredibly sweet exterior, sealing in the flavor and giving the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies their perfect appearance. For another cozy winter treat, try our recipe for Hot Chocolate Fudge!

Phase 3: Serving and Storage

14. Serve and Store: Serve the finished Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies immediately, or store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper if stacking to preserve the delicate coating. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to one week.

Tips, Troubleshooting, and Delicious Variations for Your Snowball Cookies

Once you master the classic Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, you might feel inspired to try some variations or need advice on troubleshooting common baking issues. Here is our expert advice to ensure guaranteed success and endless creativity.

Common Troubleshooting: Ensuring Perfect Texture and Shape

Snowball cookies are notorious for being finicky if the technique isn’t followed closely. Here are solutions to common problems:

• Why are my cookies spreading?

  The dough was not chilled long enough, or the butter was too soft/melty before mixing. Ensure the dough chills for at least 30 minutes. Also, verify your oven temperature with a thermometer; a too-low oven contributes to spreading.

• Why are my cookies crumbling/too dry?

  You likely added too much flour (compacted flour during measuring) or overmixed the dough after adding the flour. Remember to use the spoon-and-level method for flour measurement, and mix only until the dough just comes together.

• Why won’t the coating stick?

  The cookies were either too hot or too cool during the first roll. The first roll must happen when they are warm (2-3 minutes out of the oven). If they cooled too much, the butter on the surface won’t be tacky enough to grab the sugar.

Expert Tips for Handling the Dough

When rolling the chilled dough, work quickly. The warmth of your hands will start to soften the butter immediately. If you notice the dough becoming sticky or difficult to shape, put the mixing bowl or the shaped dough back into the refrigerator for 10 minutes to re-chill.

Pro Tip on Nuts: If you or someone you are baking for has a nut allergy, you can completely omit the nuts. To compensate for the lost structure and flavor, increase the flour by 2 tablespoons (to 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons) and consider adding a teaspoon of finely shredded coconut or a different structural element like tiny chocolate chips (mini chips work best here).

Delicious Variations on the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

This buttery base is versatile and can be adapted to many different flavor profiles:

1. Chocolate Snowballs: Replace 1/4 cup of the all-purpose flour with 1/4 cup of high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder. Roll in plain powdered sugar instead of cinnamon sugar for a rich chocolate tea cake.
2. Gluten-Free Snowballs: Swap the all-purpose flour for a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum. The rest of the recipe can remain the same. The texture may be slightly more delicate, so handle with extra care.
3. Vegan Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies: Substitute the dairy butter with a high-quality plant-based butter (like Miyoko’s Kitchen or Earth Balance sticks) designed for baking. Ensure it is softened to room temperature just like dairy butter.
4. Extra Spice: For a more intense winter flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg or allspice to the flour mixture. This deepens the complexity of the final cookie, complementing the cinnamon sugar coating perfectly.
5. Citrus Zest Snowballs: Add the zest of one lemon or orange along with the vanilla extract for a bright, contrasting flavor. The citrus is divine with the cinnamon coating.

We often use the cinnamon sugar mixture in other ways too, like sprinkling it over baked apples or even toasted nuts! If you love the combination of cinnamon and sugar, try our recipe for Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Cinnamon Sugar for a quick seasonal snack.

Understanding the Nutrition and Indulgent Benefits of These Snowball Cookies

While these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are an indulgent treat, perfect for celebratory occasions, it’s helpful to understand the general nutritional profile and the specific benefits certain ingredients bring to the table. As with any dessert, these cookies should be enjoyed in moderation.

Approximate Nutritional Snapshot (Per Cookie, assuming 3 dozen yield and pecan use)

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and precise portion sizing.

• Calories: Approximately 100–120 kcal
• Fats (Total): 6–8g (mostly from butter and nuts)
• Saturated Fat: 4–5g
• Carbohydrates (Total): 10–12g (mainly from flour and powdered sugar)
• Sugar: 6–8g
• Protein: 1–2g (primarily from nuts and flour)

These cookies are primarily a source of carbohydrates and fats, providing quick energy and satiety. They are designed for flavor and comfort, making them a well-deserved treat.

Benefits of Key Ingredients

Even in a dessert, some ingredients contribute positively to your diet:

The Power of Nuts (Pecans or Walnuts)

If you opt to include nuts, you are boosting the nutrient density of the cookies significantly. Pecans and walnuts are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein. They contain essential vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese. Walnuts, in particular, are famous for their high concentration of Omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function. By finely chopping the nuts and incorporating them into the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, we ensure that every bite delivers a small dose of these valuable micronutrients.

The Spice of Life: Cinnamon

Cinnamon is much more than just a flavor enhancer. It is one of the oldest spices used for its medicinal properties. Cinnamon is loaded with powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which help protect the body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Studies also suggest that cinnamon may have anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels, though the quantities consumed in a cookie are small. Nonetheless, choosing to incorporate cinnamon into these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies adds a layer of beneficial compounds alongside its incredible warmth and aroma.

By using real butter and pure vanilla extract, we also ensure we are using ingredients with the cleanest flavor, avoiding artificial substitutes. While a treat, these cookies contain wholesome base ingredients, making them a delightful indulgence that satisfies both the sweet tooth and the baker’s desire for quality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Snowball Cookies

Final Thoughts on These Irresistible Holiday Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

The journey to creating these exquisite Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies is simple, yet the rewards are immeasurable. This recipe takes a beloved classic the simple, buttery snowball cookie and elevates it to new heights with the addition of a warm, comforting cinnamon sugar coating. By following the critical steps outlined here, particularly the proper creaming of the butter and the essential double-roll technique, you ensure a cookie that is perfectly round, exquisitely tender, and bursting with flavor.

These cookies are not just a dessert; they are an experience. They embody the spirit of cozy gatherings, whether served alongside a cup of steaming hot cocoa or shared on a festive plate with family and friends. The fine, snowy dusting of cinnamon sugar makes them visually stunning, while the nutty, crumbly texture guarantees they will vanish quickly. They are truly the perfect treat for any occasion where simple elegance and comforting flavors are desired.

We encourage you to set aside some time this week to bake a batch of these glorious Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies. They are quick to prepare, require minimal expertise, and provide maximum satisfaction. Don’t forget to take a picture of your beautiful, snowy results! If you enjoyed this recipe, please consider leaving a comment below to share your experience and any variations you tried. Happy baking!

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies (Butter Balls)

These classic Snowball or Mexican Wedding cookies are given a warm twist with a generous coating of cinnamon and powdered sugar, resulting in a rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth holiday treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 36 cookies

Course: Cookie, Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Holiday

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (2 sticks)
• ½ cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar) plus more for rolling
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, but recommended)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 2 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Equipment

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheets
• Wire Cooling Rack

Method

 

Phase 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Set aside.
2. Cream the Fats and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and the ½ cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2 to 3 minutes). Beat in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing.
4. Fold in Nuts (if using): Gently fold the finely chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) into the dough using a rubber spatula until evenly distributed.
5. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Phase 2: Baking and Rolling

1. Shape the Cookies: Scoop rounded tablespoons of chilled dough and roll them firmly between your palms to form smooth, uniform balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
2. Bake: Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bottoms are very lightly golden brown. The cookies should still appear pale white on top.
3. Prepare Coating: While the cookies are baking, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a shallow dish or bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of powdered sugar and the 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon until fully combined.
4. First Roll (Warm): Immediately upon removing the cookies from the oven, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes. While they are still very warm, gently roll each cookie entirely in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. Return the coated cookies to a wire rack.
5. Second Roll (Cool): Allow the cookies to cool completely (30 to 45 minutes). Once they are completely cool, roll them a second time in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This ensures a thick, snowy coating.

Phase 3: Serving and Storage

1. Serve the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Notes

Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for proper creaming. The chilling step is mandatory to prevent the cookies from spreading. For the best snowy texture, the second roll in the coating must be done only after the cookies are completely cooled.