Red Velvet Snowball Cookies: 5 Secrets to Festive Perfection

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Red Velvet Snowball Cookies are the ultimate festive treat that will melt in your mouth. These soft, buttery cookies are not only visually stunning with their vibrant red hue, but they also burst with flavor, making them a perfect addition to any holiday gathering or celebration. The combination of cocoa powder and red food coloring gives them that signature look and taste, ensuring they stand out on any dessert table. Let’s dive into how to create these delightful cookies that promise to impress your friends and family!

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Snowball Cookies

There are so many reasons to fall in love with these cookies! First, they are incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels. The vibrant color and snowball shape make them an eye-catching treat. They are also versatile; you can add nuts or chocolate chips to tailor them to your taste. Additionally, these cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the holidays, and they make great gifts! Whether you are looking for a sweet treat for yourself or a festive gift for friends, these Red Velvet Snowball Cookies will not disappoint. Plus, they fit into a vegetarian diet, making them accessible for many!

Ingredients for Red Velvet Snowball Cookies

Gather these items:

14 tablespoons butter (room temperature)
3 1/3 cups powdered sugar (divided)
1 egg (large)
1/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon red food coloring (gel or liquid)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar (distilled)

How to Make Red Velvet Snowball Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2: In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and 1 2/3 cups powdered sugar on medium speed for 2 minutes, scraping the sides as needed.
Step 3: Lower the mixer speed and add the egg, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and flour. Mix until just combined. Then add the food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar, mixing until the dough becomes crumbly but holds together when squeezed.
Step 4: Scoop out 2 tablespoons of dough with a medium cookie scoop and roll into a ball. Place the dough balls about 1 inch apart on the prepared sheet. Freeze for 15 minutes.
Step 5: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 6: Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the tops are set and slightly dry. Allow cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: In a medium bowl, place the remaining powdered sugar. Gently roll each cookie in the sugar to coat evenly.

Pro Tips for the Best Red Velvet Snowball Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Use room temperature butter for a creamy texture.
Chill the dough to prevent spreading.
For added flavor, incorporate nuts or chocolate chips into the dough.
These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to a week. (Baking Method)

Best Ways to Serve Red Velvet Snowball Cookies

These cookies are delicious on their own but can be served in various delightful ways. Consider pairing them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee for an afternoon treat. They also make stunning additions to dessert platters during holiday gatherings. For a festive touch, sprinkle some extra powdered sugar on top before serving, or serve them alongside other Christmas Snowball Cookies for a themed dessert table.

How to Store and Reheat Red Velvet Snowball Cookies

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes. This method preserves their soft, buttery texture, so you enjoy them as if they were just baked!

Frequently Asked Questions About Red Velvet Snowball Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Red Velvet Snowball Cookies?

The secret lies in using quality ingredients and not over-mixing the dough. This ensures they remain soft and tender. Also, chilling the dough before baking helps maintain their shape, resulting in beautiful cookies.

Can I make Red Velvet Snowball Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and freeze it. Simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator before rolling and baking. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh cookies any time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Red Velvet Snowball Cookies?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure you measure your ingredients accurately. Also, do not skip the chilling step, as this helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much while baking.

Variations of Red Velvet Snowball Cookies You Can Try

There are numerous ways to customize these cookies! You can make Coconut Red Velvet Snowball Cookies by adding shredded coconut. For a twist, try incorporating chopped nuts for added crunch or even cream cheese frosting for a delicious filling. Experiment with flavors to discover your perfect Red Velvet Cookie Recipe!