Introduction

Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a festive twist on classic snowball cookies, bursting with cool mint flavor and studded with mini chocolate chips. Their soft, buttery texture and vibrant green hue make them perfect for holiday celebrations or any time you want a refreshing treat.

Mint Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
⅔ cup powdered sugar (sifted)
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon mint extract (or peppermint extract)
Green food coloring (gel food color works best)
¾ cup mini chocolate chips
Additional powdered sugar for coating

Instructions

Step 1: Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2: Beat the softened butter and sifted powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Mix in the flour, salt, and mint extract just until combined.
Step 4: Add green food coloring a few drops at a time until you reach your desired shade of green, using gel food color for best results.
Step 5: Stir in the mini chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.
Step 6: Scoop out one tablespoon of dough at a time and form into balls. Place them on the prepared cookie sheet.
Step 7: Cover and refrigerate the dough balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 8: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 9: Bake the cookies for 7 to 8 minutes. They should only be very lightly browned on the bottom. Let them cool on the cookie sheet for 5 minutes.
Step 10: Line another baking sheet with parchment paper and dust it generously with powdered sugar. Place the slightly cooled cookies on this sheet and dust them with more powdered sugar.
Step 11: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet.
Step 12: Fill a small bowl halfway with powdered sugar. Drop each cookie one at a time into the bowl and turn to coat them fully in powdered sugar.
Step 13: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger mint flavor, increase the mint extract slightly but be careful not to overpower the cookie.
Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant green without affecting the dough’s consistency.
Try white chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier variation.
Chill the dough longer than 30 minutes if your kitchen is warm to prevent spreading during baking.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. When ready to enjoy, bring to room temperature or warm slightly in the oven for a few minutes. Avoid freezing as the powdered sugar coating may discolor upon thawing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use peppermint extract instead of mint extract?

Yes, peppermint extract works just as well and gives a slightly different but equally refreshing flavor. Use the same amount as called for in the recipe.

Why are my cookies not staying green?

Gel food coloring is recommended for the brightest color without altering dough texture. If you use liquid food coloring, the color may be less vibrant or spread out during baking. Add color gradually and mix thoroughly for even coloring.