Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies – Cozy, Creamy & Holiday-Perfect
A melt-in-your-mouth twist on the classic snowball cookie, packed with creamy peanut butter and mini chocolate chips, then rolled in powdered sugar for a festive finish.
Introduction: A Snowball Cookie with a Sweet Surprise
Snowball cookies—also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies—are a holiday staple. But this version adds a delightful twist: creamy peanut butter and bursts of chocolate in every bite. These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are soft, rich, and dusted in powdered sugar for that perfect snowy look.
They’re easy to make, freezer-friendly, and ideal for cookie exchanges, holiday platters, or cozy nights with a mug of cocoa. With their tender texture and sweet flavor, they’re guaranteed to become a new seasonal favorite.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at what makes these cookies so irresistible:
Base:
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened)
Adds richness and creates a tender crumb. - Creamy peanut butter (½ cup)
Adds flavor and moisture—choose smooth for best texture
Sweeteners & Flavor:
- Powdered sugar (½ cup + extra for rolling)
Sweetens the dough and gives the cookies their snowy finish. - Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
Adds warmth and depth.
Dry Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour (2 cups)
Provides structure and balance. - Salt (½ tsp)
Enhances flavor and balances sweetness
Mix-In:
- Mini chocolate chips (1 cup)
Adds bursts of chocolate in every bite.
Optional: Use dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate for variation.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cooling racks
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer (for powdered sugar)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Cream the Butter & Peanut Butter
In a large bowl:
- Beat 1 cup softened butter and ½ cup creamy peanut butter until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.
Tip: Room-temperature ingredients blend best.
Step 3: Add Sweetness & Flavor
Mix in:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Beat until fully combined and smooth.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add:
- 2 cups flour
- ½ tsp salt
Mix until dough forms.
Fold in:
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Optional: Chill dough for 30 minutes for easier shaping.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Roll dough into 1-inch balls.
Place on prepared baking sheets, spacing 1 inch apart.
Tip: Use a cookie scoop for uniform size.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until:
- Bottoms are lightly golden
- Tops are set but still pale
Let cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes.
Step 7: Coat in Powdered Sugar
While still warm:
- Roll cookies in powdered sugar
Let cool completely, then roll a second time for a snowy finish.
Yields:
- 24–30 cookies, depending on size
Presentation Tip: Serve on a festive platter with holly sprigs or mini candy canes.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
- Holiday cookie trays
- Edible gifts
- Afternoon tea
- Cozy winter snacks
Pair with:
- Hot cocoa or peppermint mocha
- Eggnog or chai latte
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
Tip: Serve chilled or at room temperature for best texture.
Variations to Try
Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:
Double Chocolate
Use chocolate peanut butter and dark chocolate chips.
Nutty Crunch
Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough.
PB&J Snowballs
Add a dollop of jam in the center before baking.
Vegan Version
Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chips.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: Prepare dough up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate.
- Refrigerate: Store baked cookies in airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freeze: Freeze dough balls or baked cookies for up to 2 months.
Tip: Freeze without powdered sugar and coat fresh for best texture.
Nutrition Notes (Per Cookie, ~1 of 30)
- Calories: ~140
- Protein: ~2g
- Carbohydrates: ~14g
- Fat: ~8g
- Sugar: ~8g
- Sodium: ~90mg
- Fiber: ~1g
These cookies are:
- Soft and buttery
- Sweet and nutty
- Perfectly portioned
- Great for sharing
Final Thoughts
These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of comfort, creativity, and holiday joy. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress and satisfy. With their snowy finish and cozy flavor, they’re everything a winter cookie should be.