5-ingredient snowball cookies ready in 20 minutes!
These 5-ingredient snowball cookies are perfect for when you need a sweet fix in minutes. With both baked and no-bake options, you'll always have a melt-in-your-mouth treat on hand.
Whether you're hosting a last-minute gathering or just want a snack, these cookies deliver soft, buttery perfection. The classic snowball shape and powdered sugar coating make them irresistible.
The no-bake version is especially handy for when you're short on time. Simply shape the dough into balls and chill - no oven required!
Pair these with a cold glass of milk or your favorite coffee for a complete snack. They're also perfect for packing in lunchboxes or sharing with coworkers.
Save this recipe for busy weeknights when you need a sweet fix fast. What's your go-to quick dessert?
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
Ready in just 20 minutes with only 5 ingredients. No special equipment needed.
Budget-Friendly
Uses common pantry staples like butter, flour, and powdered sugar.
Perfect for Sharing
Ideal for parties, cookie exchanges, or gifting in festive tins.
Classic Flavor
Buttery, sweet, and slightly crisp with a soft center.
5-Ingredient Snowball Cookies
Quick, easy, melt-in-your-mouth cookies
Ingredients
- - 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- - 1 cup powdered sugar
- - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- - 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, flour, and salt using a stand mixer or hand mixer until smooth.
💡 Use softened butter for best results
Chill Dough: Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the dough.
💡 Chilling prevents cookies from spreading
Shape Cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls. For baked version, place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
💡 Use a small cookie scoop for uniform size
Bake or Freeze: For baked: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. For no-bake: Freeze for 1 hour or refrigerate overnight.
💡 No-bake version is ready in just 1 hour
Coat in Sugar: Immediately roll warm (or chilled) cookies in additional powdered sugar while still soft.
💡 This creates the signature snowball texture
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter
Provides rich flavor and structure. For vegan option, use vegan butter.
Substitutions: Coconut oil for dairy-free option
Powdered Sugar
Creates the signature snowy texture. Regular granulated sugar won't work.
Substitutions: None - powdered sugar is essential
Vanilla Extract
Adds depth of flavor. Use pure vanilla for best results.
Substitutions: Almond extract for a different flavor profile
All-Purpose Flour
Provides structure while keeping cookies soft. Bread flour will make them too firm.
Substitutions: Cake flour for extra tenderness
Salt
Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
Substitutions: Omit for lower sodium
Pro Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies
Texture Secrets
Chill dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading. Use a small cookie scoop for uniform size.
Frosting Alternative
For extra sweetness, dip cookies in melted chocolate or caramel before coating in sugar.
Storage Tips
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze unbaked dough for longer storage.
No-Bake Perfection
For no-bake version, press dough into balls and refrigerate for 1 hour. No oven needed!
Variations & Customizations
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Mix 1/4 cup powdered sugar with 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon before rolling cookies.
Crushed Nuts
Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
Chocolate Drizzle
Melt 1/2 cup chocolate chips and drizzle over cooled cookies.
Citrus Zest
Add 1 teaspoon lemon or orange zest to the dough for a fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert
- Hot chocolate or coffee for afternoon treat
- Apple pie for a Thanksgiving platter
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with cold milk, iced coffee, or a spiced chai tea.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Shape dough into balls and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake frozen cookies directly from freezer.
Refrigerator Storage
Store baked cookies in airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezer Storage
Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in oven at 300°F for 3-5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why are my cookies spreading?
A: Dough wasn't chilled long enough. Chill for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Q: How to make cookies softer?
A: Underbake slightly - cookies will firm up as they cool.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but work with smaller batches to maintain dough consistency.
Q: What if I don't have powdered sugar?
A: These cookies won't work with regular sugar - the texture will be wrong.
Final Thoughts
These 5-ingredient snowball cookies are the perfect solution for any sweet craving. With both baked and no-bake options, you can choose whichever suits your schedule. The classic snowball shape and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them irresistible.
Whether you're hosting a last-minute gathering or just want a snack, these cookies deliver buttery perfection. Pair them with a cold glass of milk or your favorite coffee for a complete treat. They're also perfect for packing in lunchboxes or sharing with coworkers.
Save this recipe for busy weeknights when you need a sweet fix fast. What's your go-to quick dessert?
