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Peppermint Bark Snowball Cookies

Peppermint Bark Snowball Cookies

Peppermint Bark Snowball Cookies combine the festive flavors of peppermint, chocolate, and buttery shortbread into a crunchy, sweet bite. Perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy winter nights, these cookies feature a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture with bright peppermint pieces and a snowy powdered sugar coating, making them a delightful seasonal treat and great for gifting.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Base

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar (plus more for coating)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free baking blend for gluten-free version)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Add-ins

  • 3/4 cup crushed peppermint bark

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Baking Essentials: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure even baking and prevent sticking.
  2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for your dough.
  3. Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients: Mix in the vanilla extract. Then gradually add the sifted all-purpose flour and salt, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
  4. Fold in the Crushed Peppermint Bark: Carefully incorporate the crushed peppermint bark pieces, distributing them evenly for that perfect peppermint crunch in each cookie.
  5. Shape and Bake the Cookies: Roll the dough into small 1-inch balls and place them spaced out on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges begin to turn light golden.
  6. Coat with Powdered Sugar: While still warm, gently roll the cookies in powdered sugar. Allow them to cool completely, then roll them once more for a thick, snowy coating.

Notes

  • Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and improve texture.
  • Use a sealed plastic bag and rolling pin to crush peppermint bark into evenly sized pieces.
  • Remove cookies from the oven as soon as edges turn light golden to keep centers tender.
  • Double coating the cookies in powdered sugar gives them their signature snowball appearance and extra sweetness.
  • Use fresh peppermint bark for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: peppermint bark cookies, snowball cookies, holiday cookies, peppermint cookies, peppermint bark snowball, festive cookies, gluten-free peppermint cookies