As the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts through the air, I can’t help but feel that the holidays have officially arrived. This year, I’m excited to share my Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies, a delightful fusion of Italian holiday spirit and festive flavors. What makes these cookies truly magical is their ease of preparation—perfect for those impromptu gatherings or cookie exchanges. Plus, their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich coffee essence create a comforting experience that everyone will cherish. Each bite is like a sweet hug, encased in a snowy layer of powdered sugar. Why not elevate your holiday baking this year with these charming treats? Let’s dive into the joy of creating something special together!
Why are Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies special?
Indulgent Flavor: These cookies combine rich coffee and creamy textures, mimicking the beloved tiramisu dessert.
Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and quick steps, anyone can whip them up in no time.
Festive Appeal: Rolling them in powdered sugar transforms these treats into a winter wonderland, adding to their charm.
Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are ideal for holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges—everyone will love their unique taste!
Versatile Enjoyment: Pair them with coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy duo; they’re the perfect sweet addition to any festive spread.
If you’re looking for more delightful cookie ideas, check out my Nutella Marshmallow Cookies or my delectable Soft Pumpkin Cookies.
Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies Ingredients
• Perfect for festive baking!
For the Batter
- Unsalted Butter – Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for a creamy blend.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the dough and is essential for coating post-baking.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds warm, comforting flavor to the cookies.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure needed for these delightful treats.
- Cocoa Powder – Infuses rich chocolate flavor, making each bite heavenly.
- Finely Ground Coffee or Espresso – Opt for espresso to enhance the coffee essence in your Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies.
- Finely Chopped Nuts (optional) – Almonds or walnuts bring a satisfying crunch; feel free to leave them out for nut-free cookies.
For Coating
- Extra Powdered Sugar – Essential for that snowy finish—roll your cookies while they’re still warm for the best coverage!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which will prevent the cookies from sticking and make for easy cleanup. Getting the oven ready first ensures the cookies bake evenly and thoroughly once they’re ready to go in.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. The texture should be creamy and pale, signaling that air has been incorporated. Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until combined for that warm flavor boost.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of cocoa powder, and 3 tablespoons of finely ground coffee or espresso. If you’d like some crunch, incorporate ½ cup of finely chopped nuts of your choice. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined; be careful not to overmix to keep the cookies tender.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, scoop portions of the dough and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet, leaving room for the cookies to spread while baking. The dough may seem soft, but this is normal for your Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies!
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Put the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are firm but the centers still slightly soft. This will create that soft ball shape when cooled. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, as you want them to remain delightfully chewy.
Step 6: Cool and Roll in Sugar
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. While they’re still warm, roll each cookie in a generous amount of powdered sugar until fully coated. This step is essential to achieve that snowy appearance characteristic of Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies.
Step 7: Finish Cooling
After rolling, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows any excess powdered sugar to settle and ensures the cookies maintain their tender texture. Once cooled, your festive treats are ready to be enjoyed or shared, bringing the warm spirit of the holidays to any gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies
- Room Temperature: Keep the cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This will maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor.
- Fridge: Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks if you prefer a cooler treat. Just ensure they’re in a tightly sealed container to prevent drying out.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, separated by parchment paper, for up to 3 months. This keeps your Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies fresh and ready for unexpected guests!
- Reheating: Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to regain their tenderness before enjoying!
What to Serve with Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies
As the delightful sweetness of these snowy treats fills your home, let’s explore some perfect pairings that will elevate your holiday gatherings.
- Rich Espresso: The robust flavors of a freshly brewed espresso complement the coffee essence of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast.
- Creamy Hot Cocoa: Indulge in a cozy cup of hot cocoa; its sweetness works harmoniously with the cookie’s soft texture, keeping things warm and inviting.
- Frosty Eggnog: Rich and creamy eggnog brings a festive touch that balances the sweet coffee notes seamlessly. Add a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra charm!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing combination; the cold creaminess pairs beautifully with the warm flavors.
- Fresh Berries: Tart raspberries or strawberries provide a fresh burst of flavor, beautifully contrasting with the sweet richness of the cookies.
- Candied Nuts: A small bowl of candied nuts offers a crunchy texture and festive feel, enhancing the overall holiday experience.
These pairings not only enhance the deliciousness of your Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies but also create a memorable and cozy holiday atmosphere.
Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these cookies to match your tastes!
- Nut-Free: Omit the nuts entirely for a deliciously safe option for those with allergies. Enjoy the rich flavors without any crunch!
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies for an indulgent touch. This adds a delightful contrast to the sweet powdered sugar.
- Spiced Winter Twist: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry mixture for a warm, holiday-inspired flavor. A little spice can make your cookies feel extra cozy.
- Coffee-Free Option: Substitute ground coffee with more cocoa powder if you prefer a chocolate-only version. This will give you a delightful cocoa experience without the coffee notes.
- Coconut Bliss: Mix in shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical twist. This addition enhances texture and brings a unique flavor to your Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies.
- Flavored Extracts: Experiment with different extracts like almond or hazelnut to change up the flavor profile. Just a drop or two will elevate these cookies to a whole new level.
- Sugar Substitutes: Use Swerve or other sugar alternatives for a lower-calorie treat, making them suitable for those watching their sugar intake.
For further inspiration, give my Oatmeal Protein Cookies or the festive Ube Tiramisu Jar a try! Each cookie has its unique charm, perfect for any holiday platter.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy holiday bakers looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. This ensures the flavors develop beautifully while keeping the dough fresh. Alternatively, you can roll the shaped cookie balls and freeze them for up to 3 months—just be sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls directly on the baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy these delightful cookies without the last-minute rush!
Expert Tips for Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies
- Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for a perfect creaminess. Cold butter will lead to dense cookies.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to keep your Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies soft and tender. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Warm Sugar Coating: Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still warm for an even coating. This helps the sugar adhere better and enhances that snowy look.
- Stay Alert While Baking: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should have firm edges but soft centers for the best texture.
- Storage Tips: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for optimum freshness, or freeze them for longer storage—perfect for saving some holiday cheer!
Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your unsalted butter is fully softened at room temperature before mixing; this takes about 30 minutes outside the fridge. If using nuts, opt for fresh almonds or walnuts without any dark spots, which can indicate rancidity.
What’s the best way to store Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies?
Very important! Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, they can be placed in the fridge for up to 2 weeks in a sealed container. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze these cookies, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place them in the freezer for about 2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag, separating layers with parchment to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste.
What if my cookies don’t come out soft enough?
Don’t worry! If your cookies turn out too hard, it could be that they were overbaked or the dough was overmixed. To ensure softness, bake them just until the edges are firm but the centers remain soft. Also, avoid mixing the dough too long after adding the dry ingredients; this is crucial for tender cookies.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Very! If you have nut allergies, simply omit the optional nuts, and you’re good to go. For those looking to reduce sugar, try using a sugar substitute in place of powdered sugar; just keep in mind the texture may vary slightly. Additionally, consult your guests’ dietary restrictions to ensure everyone can enjoy these holiday treats!
Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies for a Cozy Holiday Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Beat together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and finely ground coffee in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the creamed butter mixture.
- Scoop portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are firm but centers remain soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes, then roll in powdered sugar while still warm.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before enjoying or sharing.
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