Name: Chocolate Snowball Cookies with Melted Chocolate Centers Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for added crunch); 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling); 24 chocolate chunks (about 1/2 inch, for the melted centers); Substitute chopped nuts with finely shredded coconut for a different twist

If you have a soft spot for melt-in-your-mouth cookies that combine the rich allure of chocolate with a visually stunning snowy coating, you are going to adore this Chocolate Snowball Cookies with Melted Chocolate Centers Recipe. Imagine biting into a delicate cocoa-infused cookie that reveals a warm, luscious melted chocolate core, all wrapped in a dusting of powdered sugar so perfect it looks like freshly fallen snow. These cookies bring together simple, wholesome ingredients and transform them into a festive treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven small glass and metal bowls placed on a white marbled surface. In the front center, there is a metal bowl filled with white powdered sugar. To the right, a glass bowl holds dark brown cocoa powder, and beside it, several dark chocolate pieces are arranged. In the back, from left to right, there is a glass bowl with pale yellow butter cubes, a glass bowl with white flour, a glass bowl of white granulated sugar, and a glass bowl with dark brown liquid vanilla extract. The colors are soft and natural, with smooth and powdery textures visible in the ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Chocolate Snowball Cookies with Melted Chocolate Centers Recipe lies in its straightforward but thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each component has a purpose: buttery softness, sweet richness, a hint of vanilla warmth, and that unmistakable chocolate kick combined with optional crunch to keep things exciting.

Unsalted butter (1 cup, 2 sticks): The foundation of tenderness and flavor, softened to room temperature for the perfect dough consistency.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness while helping create the cookie’s delicate crumb.
Powdered sugar (1/2 cup, for rolling): The secret to the signature snowy coating that makes these cookies so enchanting.
Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses subtle warmth and depth into every bite.
All-purpose flour (1 3/4 cups): The structure-creator, delicately balancing texture and body.
Cocoa powder (1/2 cup): For that rich, chocolaty hue and flavor that sets these apart from the ordinary.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances and balances the sweetness, rounding out the flavor profile.
Finely chopped pecans or walnuts (1 cup, optional): Adds a delightful crunch and a rustic touch, can be swapped with shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Helps these cookies rise just enough to be tender but still hold their shape.
Chocolate chunks (24 pieces, about 1/2 inch): The heart of the recipe, creating molten chocolate centers that make every bite unforgettable.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Chocolate Snowball Cookies with Melted Chocolate Centers Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by giving yourself a treat in the kitchen by creaming the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step creates an airy base that will give the cookies a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature, so the mixer glides smoothly and you get a perfect blend.

Step 2: Add Vanilla Extract

Next, stir in the pure vanilla extract. It might seem small, but this adds a beautiful warmth and complexity that lifts every other flavor. If you want to play with the intensity, vanilla bean paste is a fantastic way to deepen the fragrance even more.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, folding gently on low speed to combine everything without toughening the dough. This gentle hand is what keeps your cookies tender and soft.

Step 4: Fold in Nuts or Coconut (Optional)

If you love a bit of crunch or chewiness, fold in finely chopped toasted nuts or substitute with shredded coconut for a unique variation. Toasting the nuts first enhances their natural aroma and lends a lovely toasted note to the cookies.

Step 5: Shape the Chocolate Snowball Cookies with Melted Chocolate Centers Recipe

This is where the magic happens. Take a tablespoon of dough, flatten it slightly, nestle a chocolate chunk inside, then wrap the dough completely around it and roll into a smooth ball. Using a cookie scoop can keep these uniform, ensuring even baking and gorgeous presentation.

Step 6: Roll in Powdered Sugar

Roll each dough ball generously in powdered sugar until coated like a perfect snowball. For a thicker, snowy crust, consider rolling them again right before baking. This sugary coat not only looks beautiful but melds with the cookie for a sweet crisp on the outside.

Step 7: Chill the Dough Balls

Chilling the dough balls for 15-20 minutes firms them up, which prevents the cookies from spreading too thin in the oven. This step guarantees that classic round shape that helps keep all that melty chocolate snug inside.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

At 350°F (175°C), bake your cookies for 10-12 minutes. You’ll want to see the edges set while the centers remain soft. Trust the process here since the centers continue to firm as they cool, preserving their gooey delight.

Step 9: Cool and Powder Again

Once out of the oven, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for five minutes. While warm, give them another roll in powdered sugar to achieve that final snow-kissed look. This finishing touch is signature to the Chocolate Snowball Cookies with Melted Chocolate Centers Recipe.

How to Serve Chocolate Snowball Cookies with Melted Chocolate Centers Recipe

The image shows round chocolate cookies with a cracked white sugar coating on top, resting on a white marbled surface. One cookie in the front is broken in half, revealing a moist, rich dark brown chocolate inside with a soft texture. The cookies are arranged loose and scattered, with powdered sugar lightly dusted around them. A silver spoon is placed nearby, partially visible. The overall look is simple and fresh, with strong contrast between the white sugary outside and the dark chocolate inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling a few extra chopped nuts or a light dusting of cocoa can elevate the presentation. For a festive twist, try adding edible glitter or a drizzle of white chocolate on top to mimic snow glistening on a winter day.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies wonderfully with a rich cup of coffee, a creamy latte, or a bold black tea to balance the chocolate’s sweetness. For an indulgent dessert platter, serve alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the warm centers.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange cookies in a clear glass jar tied with a colorful ribbon as a heartfelt gift. For gatherings, place them on a festive platter surrounded by sprigs of mint or holly leaves for a seasonal touch that’s both charming and irresistible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay fresh and tender for up to 3 days. The melt-in-the-middle centers remain deliciously soft for a satisfying bite every time.

Freezing

If you want to make these ahead of time, freeze the shaped dough balls before rolling in powdered sugar. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, roll in powdered sugar and bake directly from frozen with a couple of extra minutes added to the baking time.

Reheating

Warm the baked cookies for a few seconds in the microwave or for a minute at low oven temperature. This will revive that ooey-gooey melted chocolate center and enhance the cookie’s soft texture just as if freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use different types of chocolate for the centers?

Absolutely! Dark, milk, or even white chocolate chunks can be used depending on your preference. Each gives a unique twist to the melted center, so feel free to experiment.

Are nuts necessary in this recipe?

Nuts are optional and can be omitted or replaced with shredded coconut for a different texture. The cookies are just as delicious without any additions.

How do I prevent the chocolate from leaking during baking?

Make sure to fully encase the chocolate chunks within the dough balls. Chilling the dough before baking helps the cookies hold their shape and keeps the centers perfectly molten without leaking.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Pay attention to moisture levels as gluten-free doughs sometimes require adjustments, but this recipe adapts well.

What’s the best way to achieve the snowball-like appearance?

Rolling the cookies twice in powdered sugar is key. The first roll before chilling seals the dough with sugar, and the second roll while still warm after baking ensures a thick, snowy coating.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Snowball Cookies with Melted Chocolate Centers Recipe are a true showstopper whether for holidays, special occasions, or a cozy afternoon treat. The balance of tender cocoa dough with a luscious chocolate core wrapped in snowy sweetness makes every bite a little moment of joy to share. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try these—you might just find your new favorite cookie to bake and savor again and again.