If you’re craving a dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat, then you’re in for a treat with this Funfetti Snowball Cookies Recipe. These little bursts of sweetness combine the classic buttery melt-in-your-mouth texture of snowball cookies with the joyful pop of colorful sprinkles throughout. Every bite is a perfect celebration of texture and flavor, delivering a festive twist that’s sure to brighten any occasion. Whether you bake them for holidays, birthdays, or just because, these cookies are guaranteed to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple ingredients is the first step toward cookie perfection, and this Funfetti Snowball Cookies Recipe is no exception. Each ingredient plays a starring role—from the creamy butter that builds the base, to the sprinkles that add playful color and charm.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich, tender base for the cookie dough that melts in your mouth.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the classic snowball cookie texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, comforting flavor.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Gives structure and body to the cookies, ensuring they keep their shape while baking.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- 1/2 cup colorful sprinkles (or confetti): Brings fun, festive bursts of color into every bite.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for rolling): Used to create the classic powdered sugar coating that makes the cookies look magical.
How to Make Funfetti Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures your oven is ready, so your cookies bake evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is key for creating the tender crumb and slight sweetness you expect from snowball cookies.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Stir in the vanilla extract for that cozy, aromatic flavor that will infuse every bite and complement the sprinkles beautifully.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gently sift in the all-purpose flour and salt, then fold the mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender and delicate.
Step 5: Add Funfetti
Carefully fold in the colorful sprinkles, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. These confetti-like bursts will give your cookies their signature cheerful look!
Step 6: Form Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them a couple of inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. The size is important for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, just until the edges are set but the cookies still look soft in the center. They might not look fully done, but trust the timing to achieve that tender cookie essence.
Step 8: Cool and Roll in Powdered Sugar
Allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer them carefully to a wire rack. While still slightly warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar. Once fully cooled, roll them again for that signature snowball effect.
How to Serve Funfetti Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle an extra pinch of powdered sugar over the top just before serving to enhance their snowy appearance. For an extra pop of whimsy, add a few additional colorful sprinkles on the plate or around the cookies to elevate the festive look.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a tall glass of cold milk or a warm mug of hot chocolate. For brunch or party spreads, serve alongside a platter of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the sweetness and provide a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by packaging these Funfetti Snowball Cookies Recipe bites in little clear treat bags tied with colorful ribbons for gifts or party favors. Alternatively, arrange them on a tiered cake stand surrounded by edible flowers or pastel decorations to make any celebration extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply store your leftover Funfetti Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and soft for up to a week, perfect for snacking anytime you want a cheerful pick-me-up.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can last for up to 3 months, making them a handy make-ahead treat for spontaneous parties or cozy dessert cravings.
Reheating
To enjoy your cookies fresh out of the oven feel, simply let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature and warm them slightly in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 3-5 minutes. This restores their tender texture and resets that powdered sugar snowball magic.
FAQs
Can I substitute the butter for margarine or oil in this Funfetti Snowball Cookies Recipe?
It’s best to use unsalted butter because it provides not only flavor but also the right texture. Margarine or oil won’t create the same tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb that butter delivers.
What type of sprinkles works best in these cookies?
Use sturdy, non-melting sprinkles designed for baking, such as jimmies or small confetti sprinkles. They hold up well during baking and keep that fun, colorful effect.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a trusted gluten-free flour blend. Just be mindful that different flours absorb moisture differently, so you might need to adjust the flour amount slightly.
Why do the cookies need to be rolled twice in powdered sugar?
The first roll when the cookies are warm helps the powdered sugar stick nicely, creating an even coating. Rolling again after they cool ensures that perfect snowball look and extra sweet touch.
How long do Funfetti Snowball Cookies last?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay delicious for about a week at room temperature. Their flavor and soft texture are at their best within the first few days, so you might want to enjoy them quickly!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about baking and sharing these Funfetti Snowball Cookies Recipe treats. They’re easy enough for a casual afternoon project but special enough to impress guests. So dive in, let those sprinkles shine, and savor every colorful, buttery bite. Your taste buds and loved ones will thank you!
Print
Funfetti Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Funfetti Snowball Cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats speckled with colorful sprinkles for a festive look. Perfect for celebrations or a sweet snack, these cookies are rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy finish that adds sweetness and a delightful texture.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup colorful sprinkles (or confetti)
For Coating
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie texture.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually sift and mix in the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, blending until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Add Funfetti: Gently fold in the colorful sprinkles, distributing them evenly throughout the dough for that classic funfetti look.
- Form Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them spaced about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden but the insides remain soft.
- Cool and Roll in Powdered Sugar: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, roll each cookie in the remaining 1/4 cup powdered sugar to coat them thoroughly, creating the snowball effect.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve these festive Funfetti Snowball Cookies at your next party or enjoy them as a joyful everyday treat.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and a better cookie texture.
- You can substitute sprinkles with mini chocolate chips if desired.
- Rolling cookies in powdered sugar before baking can cause them to melt differently, so it’s best to roll only after they have cooled.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- If you prefer, chill dough for 15-20 minutes before baking to reduce spreading for thicker cookies.
