Red Velvet Snowball Cookies are the perfect blend of soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies and festive holiday vibes. These charming treats are ideal for Christmas parties, cozy winter nights, or as delightful gifts for loved ones. With their vibrant red hue and snowy powdered sugar coating, they don’t just taste amazing—they look like holiday magic on a plate.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these cookies are approachable, fun to make, and guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone who tries them. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything from ingredients to pro tips to ensure your Red Velvet Snowball Cookies turn out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

Cookie Batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 0.5 tsp baking soda
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp red food coloring
- 0.5 cup buttermilk
Coating:
- 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Prep the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy.
Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until fully incorporated.
Combine Batter: Gradually mix in dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, until a soft, uniform dough forms.
Shape Cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
Bake: Bake 12–14 minutes until cookies are set but still soft. Avoid overbaking to maintain a tender texture.
Cool & Coat: Allow cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet, then roll each in powdered sugar while warm. For extra snowy effect, roll again after they cool completely.
Serve & Store: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Snowball Cookies

Soft Cookies: Avoid overmixing once you combine wet and dry ingredients; overmixing creates a tougher texture.
Even Color: Make sure to fully incorporate red food coloring into the butter and sugar mixture for consistent coloring.
Extra Snowy Look: For a dramatic powdered sugar effect, roll cookies twice—once warm, once cooled.
Baking Sheet Prep: Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and maintain shape.

Variations

Chocolate Chip Twist: Fold mini white chocolate chips into the dough before rolling for a sweet surprise.
Nutty Addition: Finely chopped pecans or walnuts can be added for a crunchy contrast.
Flavored Coating: Mix powdered sugar with a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa for a subtly flavored snowball effect.

Serving Suggestions

Pair Red Velvet Snowball Cookies with a glass of cold milk or warm cocoa.
Arrange cookies on a festive holiday platter for parties or family gatherings.
Package in decorative tins or clear cellophane bags as homemade gifts.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Snowball cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, are a beloved holiday tradition in many countries. The powdered sugar coating symbolizes snow, making them a classic winter dessert. The red velvet variation adds a modern twist perfect for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or any festive occasion. These cookies bring a sense of warmth, celebration, and nostalgia to every bite.