Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chocolate Snowball Cookies combine the perfect balance of soft and chewy textures with the rich flavor of melted chocolate in the center. The combination of buttery cookies and decadent chocolate chunks creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience, while the powdered sugar coating gives them a festive, snowy appearance. The addition of nuts (or shredded coconut for a twist) adds a delightful crunch, making each bite even more satisfying.

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup cocoa powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for added crunch)
½ teaspoon baking powder
24 chocolate chunks (about ½ inch, for the melted centers)

Note: You can substitute the nuts with finely shredded coconut for a different twist.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
Tip: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.

2. Add Vanilla Extract:

Mix in the vanilla extract, ensuring it’s evenly incorporated into the butter and sugar mixture.
Tip: For an extra depth of flavor, try using vanilla bean paste instead of extract.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
Tip: Be careful not to overmix; this will keep your cookies tender.

4. Fold in Nuts (Optional):

If using nuts, fold them into the dough until evenly distributed.
Tip: Toast the nuts lightly before adding them to enhance their flavor.

5. Shape the Dough:

Scoop out a tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a chocolate chunk in the center, then fold the dough around it, rolling it into a smooth ball. Repeat with the remaining dough and chocolate chunks.
Tip: Use a cookie scoop to ensure each cookie is the same size for even baking.

6. Roll in Powdered Sugar:

Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Roll each dough ball in the powdered sugar until fully coated, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Tip: For a thicker coating, roll the cookies in powdered sugar a second time right before baking.

7. Chill the Dough:

Refrigerate the cookie dough balls for 15-20 minutes to firm them up and prevent them from spreading too much during baking.
Tip: Chilling the dough is key to maintaining that perfect round shape.

8. Bake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re set around the edges but still soft in the center.
Tip: Don’t overbake; the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.

9. Cool and Roll Again:

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar again while they’re still warm for a classic snowball look.
Tip: Rolling the cookies in sugar twice gives them that extra snowy finish.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 24 cookies
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Vegan Option: Use vegan butter and egg replacers to make these cookies vegan-friendly.
Nut-Free: Substitute the chopped pecans or walnuts with shredded coconut or omit them altogether for a nut-free version.
Different Chocolate: You can experiment with different types of chocolate chunks, such as dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Warm them in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them slightly melted or serve them straight from the fridge.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before rolling it into balls.

2. Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

3. Can I use chocolate chips instead of chunks?

Yes, chocolate chips will work fine, but they may not provide as large of a melted center as chunks. Use 1-2 teaspoons of chips in the center of each cookie.

4. Can I skip the rolling in powdered sugar?

If you want a lighter version, you can skip the powdered sugar, but it’s a key part of the signature snowball look and texture.

5. How do I make these cookies extra chocolaty?

You can add more cocoa powder to the dough (about 2-3 extra tablespoons) or use a richer type of chocolate for the centers to make them extra chocolaty.

6. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.

7. What should I do if the dough feels too soft to roll into balls?

Chill the dough for a bit longer if it feels too soft to handle. If necessary, you can also add a little extra flour to help firm it up.

8. Can I use other types of nuts?

Yes, you can use other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts in place of pecans or walnuts.

9. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Chill the dough before baking to help the cookies keep their shape. Avoid overworking the dough, as that can also cause the cookies to spread more.

10. Can I make these cookies without the chocolate centers?

You can, but the chocolate center adds a unique, indulgent touch. If you choose to skip it, you can add more cocoa powder to the dough to intensify the chocolate flavor.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Snowball Cookies with Melted Chocolate Centers are a fun and indulgent treat that will wow your friends and family. With their soft, chocolaty exterior, rich molten center, and snowy powdered sugar finish, they’re perfect for Halloween or any occasion that calls for something sweet. The recipe is simple to follow, and the results are irresistibly delicious!