Melt-in-your-mouth buttery cookies dusted in powdered sugar and bursting with mini chocolate chips—these Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are everything you love about classic holiday treats with a surprise chocolatey center. They’re tender, lightly crisp on the outside, and totally addictive with a cozy homemade feel that’s perfect for gift-giving, snacking, or satisfying a sudden sweet tooth.


These cookies are often called “Mexican wedding cookies” or “Russian tea cakes,” but this chocolate chip version takes things up a notch with a rich bite of semi-sweet chips in every nibble. They require no eggs and come together quickly with pantry staples, making them an ideal last-minute baking project.
What Kind of Butter Should I Use for Snowball Cookies?
High-quality unsalted butter is the key to the perfect crumbly, buttery texture of snowball cookies. Since the dough has only a few ingredients, butter is the dominant flavor, so it’s worth choosing a good brand.
Ingredients for the Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Unsalted Butter – This provides the rich base and creamy texture. Let it soften to room temperature for easy creaming.
Powdered Sugar – Used in both the dough and for dusting, it keeps the cookies tender and smooth.
Vanilla Extract – Adds that warm, aromatic flavor we all love in classic cookies.
All-Purpose Flour – The structural element of the cookie; sift it for an ultra-light result.
Mini Chocolate Chips – These melt just enough to give you gooey bites inside the firm cookie exterior.
Salt – A pinch enhances all the other flavors.
How To Make the Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This helps create that melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Step 2: Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients
Mix in the vanilla extract, then gradually add the sifted flour and salt. The dough will be crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
Step 3: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Gently stir in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 4: Shape and Chill
Scoop out heaping tablespoons and roll into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill for 30 minutes to prevent spreading.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Let them cool slightly before the next step.
Step 6: Powdered Sugar Dusting
While still slightly warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar. Let them cool completely, then roll once more for that iconic snowball look.

How to Serve and Store Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
These cookies shine on holiday dessert platters, cookie exchanges, or as cozy treats with afternoon coffee. Serve them piled high on a festive plate, or package them in cute tins for homemade gifts. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
What to Serve With Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies?
Hot Chocolate
A mug of rich, steamy hot chocolate pairs beautifully with the subtle sweetness of these cookies.
Peppermint Tea
The refreshing mint cuts through the buttery richness, making each bite feel light.
Eggnog
For a classic holiday combo, nothing beats the creamy spice of chilled eggnog.
Fresh Berries
Add a colorful and tangy balance with a side of raspberries or strawberries.
Espresso or Latte
The boldness of espresso complements the delicate texture of the cookies.
Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?
If you love these Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies, you’ll definitely want to try these other cozy favorites:
- Condensed Milk Snow Cookies for a melt-in-your-mouth snowy treat.
- Salted Caramel Cupcakes if you’re craving rich, gooey caramel flavors.
- Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Cookies with a tangy twist.
- Raspberry Cookies for a fruity and colorful bite.
- Cheesecake Brownies if you love creamy and chocolatey in one.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to bake again.
Tried them with a hint of cinnamon or dipped in dark chocolate? I’d love to hear how they turned out—drop your variations and baking stories in the comments!
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen on Pinterest. Your next favorite cookie might be waiting there!
Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ready for a holiday cookie that’s irresistibly buttery and chocolatey? These Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are perfect for any celebration—or no reason at all! They’re soft, tender, and melt in your mouth with every bite. Classic snowball cookies get a tasty twist with the addition of mini chocolate chips for an irresistible burst of richness. Ideal for holiday cookie swaps, easy dessert ideas, or cozy food ideas during the colder months, these treats are a must-make. This easy recipe is great for beginner bakers looking for breakfast ideas, snack inspiration, or an after-dinner bite that impresses without the fuss.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
0.5 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2.25 cups all-purpose flour
0.25 teaspoon salt
0.75 cup mini chocolate chips
0.5 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Instructions
1. Cream the softened butter and powdered sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
2. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
3. Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Fold in the mini chocolate chips evenly.
5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Chill the dough balls for 30 minutes to help them hold shape.
7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Bake for 10–12 minutes until bottoms are lightly golden.
9. Let cool slightly, then roll in powdered sugar while still warm.
10. Once fully cooled, roll in powdered sugar again for a snowy finish.
Notes
Use high-quality butter for best flavor and texture.
Store in an airtight container and re-roll in sugar before serving if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: easy dessert, holiday cookies, chocolate chip cookies, snowball cookies, powdered sugar cookies
