If you are craving a melt-in-your-mouth cookie that wraps the comforting richness of peanut butter with the sweet delight of chocolate, then you’re in for a treat with this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe. These cookies blend the creamy texture of peanut butter with bursts of mini chocolate chips, all enveloped in a snowy powdered sugar coating that adds a festive touch and an extra layer of sweetness. Perfectly tender with a slight crunch from optional peanuts, these snowball cookies are a wonderful way to cozy up your dessert table or brighten someone’s day with a homemade gift.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these cookies is wonderfully simple because it relies on just a handful of classic, everyday ingredients that work harmoniously. Each component plays a crucial role, from the butter creating a tender crumb to the peanut butter lending a rich depth of flavor, all balanced with a sweetness that’s never overpowering.

1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The base of the dough for a tender texture and rich flavor without overpowering saltiness.
1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky): Adds creamy, nutty goodness with an optional crunch for extra personality.
1/4 cup powdered sugar (for rolling): Creates the signature snowball look and a sweet, delicate finish on each cookie.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Provides balanced sweetness and helps with cookie structure.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting aroma and rounds out the flavor profile.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cookie, giving it shape and a perfect crumb.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
1 cup mini chocolate chips: Tiny bursts of chocolate that melt in your mouth and compliment the peanut butter beautifully.
1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional): Adds an extra crunch and nutty texture if you love a bit more bite.

How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your cookies bake evenly and release easily. Then, in a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process is key to building that beloved melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to your wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. The flour gives your cookies structure, while the salt keeps the flavors perfectly balanced. Be sure not to overmix—tender cookies are waiting on the other side!

Step 3: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Peanuts

Now comes the fun part—fold in the mini chocolate chips and, if you’re using them, the chopped peanuts. Incorporating these last ensures even distribution so every cookie is packed with peanutty, chocolaty goodness.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Roll your dough into 1-inch balls with clean hands or a cookie scoop. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave about 2 inches of space between cookies for that perfect spread and shape.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, keeping an eye out for golden edges while the centers stay soft. This is the sweet spot for the signature tender yet slightly chewy texture that makes these cookies stand out.

Step 6: Coat with Powdered Sugar

Immediately after removing from the oven, carefully roll each warm cookie in powdered sugar. This step not only gives the cookies their iconic snowball appearance but also adds a sweet, delicate outer crust that contrasts beautifully with the cookie’s richness. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet before moving or serving.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

These cookies are delightful just as they are, but a light dusting of extra powdered sugar right before serving can add a fresh snow-like sparkle. For an extra festive look, a few finely chopped roasted peanuts sprinkled on top add crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Serve these snowball cookies alongside a cold glass of milk or a cozy cup of hot chocolate for a truly comforting snack. Their rich peanut butter and chocolate flavors also pair wonderfully with vanilla or coffee ice cream for a simple yet indulgent dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gifting or parties, arrange the cookies in decorative tins or stack them between parchment paper in clear jars to showcase their snowy charm. You can even string them along a ribbon for a playful edible garland that doubles as décor and a treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe fresh by storing leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They usually stay soft and delicious for up to 4 days, making them perfect for sharing or nibbling over several days.

Freezing

If you want to make a batch ahead of time, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls. Arrange them on a tray to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. Alternatively, freeze baked cookies in a single layer separated by parchment paper. This way, you can enjoy fresh snowball cookies anytime for up to two months.

Reheating

To revive the fresh-baked warmth, simply let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature or gently warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This brings back the soft centers and enhances the melting chocolate chips for that irresistible fresh-baked experience.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds delightful texture, making your Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe even more interesting with little peanut bites throughout. Just choose your favorite and enjoy the difference.

Do I have to add chopped peanuts in the cookies?

Nope, the chopped peanuts are completely optional. The cookies are delicious just with peanut butter and chocolate chips, but if you like extra crunch and nutty flavor, adding peanuts is a terrific choice.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Make sure to chill your dough for about 15-20 minutes if it feels too soft before rolling into balls. Also, leaving enough space between cookies on the baking sheet helps maintain their shape without merging into one another.

Can I substitute mini chocolate chips with regular-sized ones?

You can, but mini chocolate chips distribute more evenly throughout the cookie for consistent chocolate flavor in every bite. If using regular chips, consider chopping them smaller or expect slightly larger chocolate pockets.

What’s the best way to get the powdered sugar to stick evenly on the cookies?

Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm from the oven helps the sugar adhere nicely to the surface, creating that classic snowball cookie look and a sweet coating.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting and nostalgic about the Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies Recipe, combining two favorite flavors into a snowy, sweet bite of joy. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, gifting to friends, or simply indulging in an afternoon treat, these cookies bring warmth and happiness with every mouthful. Go ahead, try this recipe — your taste buds will thank you!