Red Velvet Snowballs Recipe

Introduction

These Red Velvet Snowballs are soft, cocoa-flavored cookies with a festive pop of red color. Coated in powdered sugar, they make a perfect treat for holidays or any time you want a sweet, elegant dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for coating)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
4. Step 4: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the butter mixture, mixing thoroughly.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Step 6: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
7. Step 7: Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
8. Step 8: Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cookies are set but still soft.
9. Step 9: Let the cookies cool slightly, then gently roll them in powdered sugar while they are still warm.
10. Step 10: Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving or storing.

Tips & Variations

• Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
• If you prefer natural coloring, consider using beet juice powder instead of food coloring.
• For extra moisture, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream to the dough.
• Chill the dough briefly before baking to help the cookies hold their shape better.

Storage

Store the Red Velvet Snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep the powdered sugar coating fresh, you can sift additional powdered sugar over the cookies before serving. They freeze well for up to three months; thaw at room temperature and roll in powdered sugar again if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?

Yes, regular cocoa powder works fine, though it may slightly affect the color and flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa gives a smoother, less acidic taste and can enhance the red color.

Why are the cookies rolled in powdered sugar while still warm?

Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while warm helps the sugar stick better, creating the classic snowball effect. If you wait until they’re cool, the coating won’t adhere as well.

Red Velvet Snowballs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 406 reviews

• Author: Charlotte
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: About 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Delight in these festive Red Velvet Snowballs—a perfect blend of rich cocoa and vibrant red color wrapped in a soft, tender cookie coated with a sweet powdered sugar dusting. These snowball cookies offer a beautiful twist on a classic treat, ideal for holiday celebrations or any special occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring

Coating

• 1 cup powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until fully combined to create a uniform dry mixture.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and creamy, which helps to incorporate air for a tender texture.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients and achieve a vibrant red hue.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
6. Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll each portion into smooth balls to ensure even baking and a uniform appearance.
7. Bake: Place the dough balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the cookies are set but still soft.
8. Coat Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool slightly but while still warm, roll them in powdered sugar to coat the exterior, giving them a snowy, festive appearance.
9. Cool Completely: Transfer the coated cookies to a wire rack or plate and let them cool completely before serving to let the coating set and flavors meld.

Notes

• Ensure butter is softened for easy mixing and a creamy texture.
• Do not overbake; cookies should be soft and slightly chewy.
• Rolling cookies in powdered sugar while warm helps the sugar stick better.
• Red food coloring can be adjusted for color intensity as desired.
• Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Red velvet cookies, snowball cookies, holiday cookies, cocoa cookies, festive desserts