There’s something absolutely magical about biting into Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies—each bite is a nostalgic delight, with tender, melt-in-your-mouth centers, a snowy coating of powdered sugar, and the unbeatable duo of peanut butter and chocolate chips. These cookies are a unique twist on a classic holiday treat, but make no mistake: you’ll want them year-round. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering, packing lunchbox surprises, or simply treating yourself after a long day, these cookies bring joy, comfort, and a touch of playful elegance to every occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies only requires a handful of pantry staples, but every ingredient plays an important role in crafting their perfect taste and texture. From rich butter to a dreamy dusting of powdered sugar, each element creates that signature snowball experience.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The creamy foundation—softened butter gives these cookies their tender, melt-away bite.
- Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup): Adds rich, nutty flavor and a moist, soft crumb—be sure to use creamy for smooth results.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup, plus 1 cup for rolling): Sweetens the dough gently and creates a velvety finish when the cookies are rolled—don’t skip the double roll!
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A touch of vanilla brings out all the other flavors and gives a cozy aroma.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): This gives the cookies their structure while keeping them tender—not dense or tough.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): A hint of salt balances the sweetness and highlights the peanut butter beautifully.
- Mini chocolate chips (1 cup): Sprinkle in little pockets of melty chocolate throughout—mini chips work best for even distribution!
How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F, the perfect temperature for even baking and the iconic “snowball” texture. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Together the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air and ensures your Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies will have that delicate, melt-in-your-mouth interior.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Blend in the vanilla extract until it’s fully combined. This sneaky little ingredient adds warmth and enhances every other flavor in the dough.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In a different bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour and salt. This step ensures the salt is evenly dispersed and your cookies bake up with the right structure and flavor throughout.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix—this keeps your Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies tender. At this stage, your dough will be thick but still easy to work with.
Step 6: Stir In the Mini Chocolate Chips
With a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. The little bits of chocolate distribute evenly, ensuring every cookie is studded with rich morsels.
Step 7: Scoop and Form the Cookies
Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Arrange them on your prepared sheets about 1 inch apart to allow for subtle spreading as they bake.
Step 8: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the bottoms are just lightly golden. Don’t overbake—part of the charm of these snowballs is their tender, lightly crumbly texture.
Step 9: Roll in Powdered Sugar—Twice!
Let the cookies cool for five minutes. While still warm, gingerly roll each one in powdered sugar. Once they finish cooling, give them a second roll for that dreamy, snowy finish—this double dip is what makes your Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies so picture-perfect.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Garnishes
These cookies don’t need much to shine, but you can sprinkle them with a pinch of cinnamon or colored sanding sugar if you’re feeling festive. Tiny chocolate curls or a little grated nutmeg atop the snowy surface add delightful elegance for special occasions.
Side Dishes
Pair Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies with a cold glass of milk, a hot cup of cocoa, or a strong espresso—each sip enhances their creamy, nutty flavor. They’re also wonderful on a cookie platter alongside classic shortbread, gingersnaps, or spicy cinnamon cookies for a truly inviting spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these cookies in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for homemade holiday gifts, or stack them high on a cake stand with sprigs of greenery for a rustic dessert centerpiece. For an extra-cute touch, tuck a few into festive cookie tins or mason jars filled with powdered sugar—they look exactly like edible snowballs!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Make sure they’re fully cooled and generously coated in powdered sugar before sealing to prevent them from absorbing moisture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cookies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to zip-top freezer bags. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and give them a fresh roll in powdered sugar for optimal “snowy” appeal.
Reheating
No need to reheat these cookies, as they’re best enjoyed at room temperature. If you like, you can warm them briefly in a low oven (about 250°F for five minutes) to bring back a little just-baked lift—just be sure to recoat in powdered sugar afterwards for that trademark look.
FAQs
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Creamy peanut butter is best for that smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture, but if you love a bit of crunch, you can try using chunky; just note your cookies may be a touch less tender.
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
No dough chilling is required for Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies—these are designed for quick baking, so you can go from mixing bowl to oven in minutes.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a cup-for-cup gluten-free blend. Check that your peanut butter and chocolate chips are gluten-free too, and you’ll have delicious snowball cookies for everyone.
Why do the cookies get two rolls in powdered sugar?
The first roll helps the sugar stick while the cookies are warm, and the second once they’re cool adds extra thickness and the classic “snowy” appearance—don’t skip that second roll!
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! This recipe easily doubles to feed a party, just use two mixing bowls and bake in batches if needed—your friends and family will never get enough of these sweet little snowballs.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are my go-to for celebrating or just for a little weekday pick-me-up. Give them a try, share them with someone you love, and let their perfectly sweet, tender, and chocolate-kissed flavor bring a smile to your face—there’s nothing quite like a homemade “snowball” any time of year!
Print
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 36 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat for the holiday season. With a peanut butter and chocolate flavor combination, these cookies are easy to make and perfect for Christmas gatherings.
Ingredients
Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
For Rolling:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, peanut butter, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Stir in mini chocolate chips.
- Bake: Scoop dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until bottoms are lightly golden.
- Roll in Sugar: Let cool for 5 minutes, then roll warm cookies in powdered sugar. Cool completely, then roll again in powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
Notes
- For a festive twist, add 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon to the powdered sugar.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 45 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
