As the holiday season twinkles closer, I find myself lost in memories of baking marathons, where tempting aromas fill the air and laughter dances in the kitchen. One recipe that never fails to capture hearts and taste buds alike is my Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Cookies. These delightful treats are a buttery blend of tender cookie goodness, enriched with toasted hazelnuts and kissed with cocoa powder. The moment you take a bite, you’re met with a buttery crunch and a rich chocolate flavor that leaves you wanting more.
What sets these snowball cookies apart is their simplicity; with just a handful of ingredients, they transform into an elegant dessert that’s perfect for gifting or sharing at festive gatherings. Imagine serving them on a beautifully designed platter, dusted with powdered sugar like fresh snow, igniting smiles and sparking joy with every bite. Whether for a holiday cookie exchange or cozy family gatherings, these cookies are not only crowd-pleasers but also a wonderful way to infuse warmth into your celebrations. Ready to dive into this delightful recipe? Let’s get baking!
Why are Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Cookies irresistible?
Indulge your senses with these buttery textures that melt in your mouth, delivering a delightful crunch from toasted hazelnuts. Quick and Easy to prepare, you only need a handful of ingredients to create a festive sensation. Perfect for Gifting, they’re beautifully dusted in powdered sugar, making them a charming treat for any occasion. Versatile enough to accommodate ingredient swaps, you can easily customize nut preferences or enhance with chocolate chips. These cookies are sure to ignite joy and spark smiles at your next holiday gathering!
Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and ensures the cookies have a tender texture; can substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and contributes to a soft texture; reserve some for dusting before serving to enhance the snow-dusted look.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; using sea salt can add a gourmet touch.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; almond extract can be used for a delightful twist.
- All-Purpose Flour – The main structure of the cookies; for a gluten-free option, almond flour may be used but adjust ratios accordingly.
- Cocoa Powder – Provides the essential chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed cocoa results in a richer taste.
- Toasted Hazelnuts – Adds a delightful nutty crunch; for a different flavor, consider substituting with pecans or walnuts.
How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Cookies
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Prepare the Dough: In a stand mixer, cream room-temperature butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add salt and vanilla, mixing briefly. Gradually mix in the flour and cocoa until nearly combined; fold in the chopped hazelnuts gently.
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Chill: Cover the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to shape.
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Shape Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into 1-tablespoon balls and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
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Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. They should be slightly flattened but still retain a dome shape; keep an eye on them so they don’t brown.
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Coat in Sugar: Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before rolling them in powdered sugar. For an extra sweet finish, consider dusting them again after completely cooling.
Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies for an added decadent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you put a twist on this delightful recipe!
- Nut-Free: Replace hazelnuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option that still adds great texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use almond flour in place of all-purpose flour, adjusting the quantity for a perfect balance.
- Chocolate Overload: Add in chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey kick that every chocoholic will adore!
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- Zesty Twist: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a bright and refreshing citrus flavor.
- Caramel Drizzle: Top cooled cookies with a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate the sweetness with a sticky touch.
- Flavor Infusion: Swap vanilla extract for peppermint or almond extract, creating a unique aromatic profile.
- Coconut Bliss: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flare that surprises with every bite.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Cookies
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Butter Temperature: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming. Cold butter won’t blend well, leading to dense cookies.
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Dough Consistency: If your dough seems crumbly before chilling, don’t worry! It will come together nicely after a quick rest in the fridge.
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Watch the Bake: Keep a close eye on these cookies while baking. They should not brown too much; a light dome shape is ideal for the perfect Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Cookies.
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Extra Dusting: For a beautiful presentation, consider a second dusting of powdered sugar once the cookies have completely cooled.
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Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to experiment! Substitute hazelnuts with almonds or pecans for a different flavor profile that still delights.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Cookies
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and delicious. Ideal for enjoying as a quick treat or with a cup of tea.
- Fridge: If you live in a warm climate, consider refrigerating the cookies for enhanced freshness. They can last up to 2 weeks in the fridge without losing their charm.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for a few hours or warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive that fresh-baked taste with your Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Cookies are a dream come true for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain the cookie’s delightful texture, make sure the dough is well-wrapped to prevent drying. When you’re ready to bake, roll the chilled dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Bake as directed, then cool and roll them in powdered sugar for a fresh, snowy finish. This way, you’ll have tender, delicious cookies that are just as irresistible, ready to brighten any gathering!
What to Serve with Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Cookies?
Indulge in a delightful spread that elevates your chocolate treats into a festive feast.
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Rich Hot Cocoa: A warm mug of hot cocoa perfectly balances the cookie’s sweetness, creating the ultimate cozy pairing. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for that extra touch of indulgence.
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Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavors of espresso contrast beautifully with the buttery cookies, enhancing their rich chocolate taste. Sip slowly and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luscious contrast to the crunchy cookie texture, cooling your palate with every bite. Consider drizzling chocolate syrup on top for a decadent twist.
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Raspberry Sauce: A tart raspberry sauce cuts through the richness of the cookies, offering a burst of fruity freshness that complements their chocolatey goodness. Drizzle it artfully on the plate for a gourmet presentation.
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Chocolate Fondue: Serve your cookies alongside a small pot of warm chocolate fondue for a fun dipping experience. It’s an interactive dessert that sparks joy and conversation with family and friends.
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Fresh Fruit Platter: A medley of fresh fruits like strawberries and oranges adds vibrant color and a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies. Their natural sweetness balances beautifully, making every bite intriguing.
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Spiced Tea: Chai or spiced herbal teas provide a warming and aromatic complement to your cookies. The spices will enhance the flavors of hazelnuts and chocolate, creating a beautifully harmonious blend.
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Peanut Butter Dip: Prepare a smooth, light peanut butter dip to spread on the cookies; the nutty flavor plays nicely with the hazelnuts for an added layer of delight.
Elevate your cookie experience with these mouthwatering pairings, and indulge in cozy moments with loved ones!
Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best hazelnuts for my cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing hazelnuts, look for ones that are plump, firm, and free from dark spots or blemishes. Fresh hazelnuts should have a light brown color and should not feel too oily. I always recommend toasting them lightly before adding to the batter, as this enhances their flavor and gives an irresistible crunchy texture.
What’s the best way to store Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Cookies?
Very! Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’re in a warmer environment, you might want to refrigerate them—this can prolong freshness for an additional week. Just make sure they are tightly sealed to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Cookies?
Certainly! To freeze, start by placing the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet without them touching. Freeze for about 2 hours, then transfer the cookies to a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, remove them from the freezer, let them sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes, and then roll in powdered sugar for that fresh-baked appeal.
What if my cookie dough is crumbly?
Not to worry! It’s perfectly normal for the dough to seem crumbly before chilling. If this happens, do a quick fold to combine everything, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. After chilling, it will firm up nicely and be easy to shape into those adorable snowball bites. Patience pays off here!
Are Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Cookies suitable for those with nut allergies?
That’s a great question! Unfortunately, since this recipe contains hazelnuts—and depending on the severity of the allergy—these cookies are not safe for individuals with nut allergies. If you’re looking for a nut-free version, you can experiment with sunflower seeds or alternative flours, but the texture and flavor will differ. Always check with your guests regarding allergies before baking!
How do I prevent my cookies from browning too much?
Very important! To ensure your cookies remain beautifully pale, watch them closely as they bake. Set a timer for 10 minutes, and check them. They should slightly puff but retain their dome shape without turning brown. If the cookies are browning quickly, consider lowering the oven temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) and extending the baking time by a few minutes to achieve that dreamy softness without the crisp!
Delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Snowball Cookies for Gifting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a stand mixer, cream room-temperature butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add salt and vanilla, mixing briefly. Gradually mix in the flour and cocoa until nearly combined; fold in the chopped hazelnuts gently.
- Cover the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to shape.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into 1-tablespoon balls and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. They should be slightly flattened but still retain a dome shape; keep an eye on them so they don’t brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before rolling them in powdered sugar. For an extra sweet finish, consider dusting them again after completely cooling.