Winter brings with it a sense of coziness and delight, and what better way to capture that feeling than with a batch of homemade Peppermint Snowballs? These festive treats are a perfect combination of minty freshness and sweet indulgence, making them a wonderful addition to any holiday gathering or simply a cozy night in by the fireplace. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can create these delightful snowballs that will melt in your mouth and warm your heart. So put on your favorite apron and let’s get started on making these delicious Peppermint Snowballs!
**Peppermint Snowballs**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup finely crushed peppermint candies
– Additional powdered sugar, for rolling
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract, mixing well to combine.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt to the mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
4. Gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll into balls.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Shape the chilled dough into 1-inch balls, then place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
8. Bake the snowballs in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until set but not browned.
9. Remove the snowballs from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
10. While the snowballs are still warm, gently roll them in additional powdered sugar to coat fully. This will create a snowy effect on the cookies.
11. Transfer the coated snowballs to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
12. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Whether you enjoy these Peppermint Snowballs with a steaming cup of hot cocoa or as a sweet treat after a hearty winter meal, they are sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your soul. So take some time to embrace the magic of the season by baking up a batch of these delightful snowballs to share with loved ones or savor on your own. Happy baking!
