Red Velvet Snowball Cookies: A Festive Holiday Delight

Nothing says festive like the rich, vibrant hue of Red Velvet Snowball Cookies dusted with snowy powdered sugar. These cookies perfectly combine a soft, tender red velvet base with a luscious, creamy filling, making them ideal for holiday celebrations, gifting, or an indulgent treat anytime. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying something new this season, these cookies are simple to make, stunning in appearance, and irresistibly delicious.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to creative variations, expert tips, and fun facts about this beloved dessert.

Why Red Velvet Snowball Cookies Are Special

Red velvet isn’t just visually stunning—it has a subtle cocoa flavor and tender texture that perfectly complements sweet, creamy fillings. Snowball cookies, also known as Mexican wedding cookies or Russian tea cakes in other variations, are celebrated for their melt-in-your-mouth texture. Combining the two transforms an ordinary cookie into a festive treat, ideal for sharing.

Key characteristics:

• Soft, buttery texture
• Vibrant red hue for visual appeal
• Sweet cream cheese or buttercream filling
• Powdered sugar “snow” coating for a holiday feel

Ingredients

Cookie Batter

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cocoa powder (for subtle chocolate flavor)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp red food coloring
• ¼ cup buttermilk

Filling

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1.5 cups powdered sugar
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2–3 tbsp milk or cream (for desired consistency)

Topping

• ½ cup powdered sugar, for rolling

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until evenly incorporated. Gradually add buttermilk to create a smooth, soft batter.
5. Combine Dry and Wet: Slowly mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.
6. Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
7. Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are set but centers are still slightly soft. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
8. Prepare Filling: Beat softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Add milk gradually to reach desired spreading consistency.
9. Assemble Cookies: Once cookies are completely cooled, spread or pipe a generous amount of filling on the bottom of one cookie, then sandwich with another.
10. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Lightly roll or dust assembled cookies in powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
11. Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Expert Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Snowball Cookies

• Soft Butter is Key: Ensure butter is softened, not melted, for a tender, airy texture.
• Chill the Dough: For even baking and reduced spreading, chill dough for 15–20 minutes before baking.
• Consistent Cookie Size: Use a small cookie scoop for uniform cookies that bake evenly.
• Dust Twice for Extra Snow: For a dramatic snowy effect, dust once before assembly and again after filling.
• Cream Cheese Filling Variation: Mix a pinch of lemon zest into filling for a subtle citrus twist.

Fun Variations

• Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough for extra indulgence.
• Nutty Twist: Roll cookies in finely chopped nuts before powdered sugar for texture.
• Festive Flavors: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or peppermint extract into the dough for holiday flair.
• Mini Snowball Cookies: Make bite-sized cookies for party platters or cookie exchanges.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect alongside a cup of hot cocoa or spiced coffee
• Beautiful addition to holiday dessert platters
• Serve as a charming gift in decorative tins or mason jars
• Pair with fresh berries or whipped cream for festive presentation

Cultural and Holiday Context

Red velvet’s origin is debated, but it became an American classic in the 20th century, often associated with Southern cuisine and special occasions. Snowball cookies have roots in Mexican weddings and Russian tea traditions, where they symbolize prosperity and celebration. Combining these two traditions creates a modern, festive cookie that honors both heritage and holiday cheer.

Storage and Freezing Tips

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze assembled cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Thaw at room temperature and re-dust with powdered sugar before serving for best presentation.

Why This Recipe Works

• Balanced sweetness from powdered sugar and cream cheese filling
• Tender, soft cookie that melts in your mouth
• Vibrant red color for visual appeal in photos or gift boxes
• Flexible assembly and storage options

Fun Fact

Red velvet gained its signature red color from a reaction between cocoa powder and acidic ingredients like vinegar or buttermilk. Snowball cookies are often shaped into perfect rounds to resemble little “snowballs,” symbolizing purity and celebration.

By following this guide, anyone can create Red Velvet Snowball Cookies that are not only a feast for the eyes but also a melt-in-your-mouth delight perfect for any occasion.

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