Description
Hey there, fellow dessert lovers! If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy a cookie that feels like a warm hug and tastes like a bite of pure chocolate heaven, then you’re about to fall in love with my Chocolate Snowball Cookies with Melted Chocolate Centers! These cookies are soft, buttery, and oh-so-chocolatey, perfect for when you need a little pick-me-up or a delicious treat to share with friends and family.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 24 chocolate chunks (about 1/2 inch)
Instructions
- Cream the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. You want to cream these together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. It’s a great time to admire your work and get a whiff of that buttery sweetness!
- Add the Vanilla: Mix in the magical vanilla extract that’s going to elevate your cookies’ flavor.
- Sift the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. This step isn’t just for show! It helps to aerate the mixture and removes any lumps that could ruin your cookie vibes.
- Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter and sugar blend, mixing on low speed until everything is just combined. Remember, we’re aiming for cookies that are tender, not tough.
- Add Nuts If You’d Like: If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts. They add an amazing crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft cookie.
- Shape the Dough: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough, flatten them slightly in your palm, and place a chocolate chunk right in the center. Then, roll the cookie dough around the chocolate, forming a smooth ball. Repeat until you’ve got a baking sheet full of these delights!
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Roll each cookie ball in powdered sugar until it’s fully coated. This step not only tastes amazing but gives your cookies that “snowball” effect!
- Chill: Pop those dough balls in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while baking—a little patience will go a long way!
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake these beauties for about 10-12 minutes. You want them set around the edges but still soft in the center—trust me, they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Finish and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes before rolling them in powdered sugar again for that extra snowy touch. Now, grab a cookie (or two!) and enjoy!
Notes
- Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted—this helps achieve the right texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Just mix until combined to keep your cookies soft and tender.
- Add Extra Chocolate: Feeling indulgent? Add more chocolate chunks into the dough for even more gooeyness!