Candy Cane Snowballs are a delightful holiday treat that combine the buttery richness of classic snowball cookies with the refreshing minty crunch of crushed candy canes. These cookies are tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites of joy, rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy appearance and studded with the festive red and white colors of candy canes. Perfect for holiday parties, gift-giving, or simply enjoying with a cup of cocoa by the fire, they bring a little extra holiday magic to every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup finely crushed candy canes (about 6-8 candy canes)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Stir in the crushed candy canes and chopped nuts (if using).
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The cookies should still be pale in color.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm to coat them. Once fully cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for a thicker, snow-like coating.
- Store in an airtight container and enjoy these festive cookies throughout the holiday season.
These Candy Cane Snowballs are sure to become a favorite holiday tradition, with their irresistible blend of buttery goodness and peppermint sweetness!
