Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are a cozy, festive twist on the classic snowball cookie. These tender, buttery cookies are coated in sweet cinnamon sugar that gives them a warm, aromatic flavor and a snowy finish. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or enjoying with a warm drink on a chilly day.
Ingredients
For the cookies:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup finely chopped nuts (optional — pecans or walnuts work well)
For the cinnamon sugar coating:
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. - Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set this dry mixture aside. - Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes a few minutes with an electric mixer. - Add Vanilla
Stir in the vanilla extract until it’s evenly combined with the butter and sugar. - Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture into the creamed butter mixture. Mix gently until a smooth dough forms. If you’re using chopped nuts, fold them in now. - Shape the Cookies
Scoop rounded teaspoons of dough and roll them between your hands to form small balls — about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 1-2 inches apart. - Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, until the edges are set and the cookies look slightly firm on top. They should not brown much. - Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the cookies bake, combine the powdered sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. - Coat the Warm Cookies
As soon as the cookies come out of the oven and are still warm, roll each one in the cinnamon sugar mixture so they are completely coated. - Cool and Re-Coat
Place the coated cookies on a cooling rack. Once they have cooled completely, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture again for a beautiful, snowy finish.
Serving and Storage
These cookies are lovely served with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them; thaw and re-roll in cinnamon sugar if you want to refresh the coating.
A Cookie Perfect for the Holiday Season
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are especially popular during the fall and winter months, when warm spices take center stage in home baking. The aroma of cinnamon filling the kitchen instantly creates a cozy, festive atmosphere, making these cookies a favorite choice for holiday baking traditions. Their snowy appearance also makes them visually appealing on dessert tables, gift boxes, and cookie platters.
Texture and Flavor Profile
One of the most loved qualities of these cookies is their delicate texture. They are soft, crumbly, and melt in your mouth with each bite. The buttery dough balances perfectly with the sweet cinnamon sugar coating, offering a gentle warmth without overpowering sweetness. When nuts are added, they bring a subtle crunch that enhances both texture and flavor.
Why They’re Easy to Make
These cookies require minimal ingredients and simple techniques, making them accessible even for beginner bakers. There is no need for chilling the dough or complicated shaping methods. Everything comes together in one bowl, and the rolling process is quick and enjoyable, which makes this recipe ideal for baking with family or children.
Perfect for Gifting and Sharing
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are a wonderful homemade gift idea. Their sturdy texture allows them to travel well, and they keep their flavor and appearance for several days when stored properly. Packed in decorative tins or boxes, they make thoughtful holiday presents for friends, neighbors, and coworkers.
Customization Ideas
This recipe is very flexible and can easily be customized. You can adjust the amount of cinnamon to suit your taste or add a hint of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts without affecting the overall structure of the cookies. You can also experiment with rolling the cookies in vanilla sugar or spiced sugar blends.
A Timeless Classic with a Twist
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies take a traditional recipe and elevate it with a comforting spice blend that feels both nostalgic and modern. Whether served at celebrations or enjoyed quietly with a warm drink, these cookies are a timeless treat that brings warmth, sweetness, and a touch of holiday magic to every bite.