Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies: 1 Easy Recipe

29 de September de 2025

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Cream cheese snowball cookies have always been my go-to for a quick, delightful treat, especially when the holidays roll around. I remember my aunt making these years ago – they were so soft and just melted in my mouth, filling the kitchen with a sweet, buttery aroma. This easy cream cheese snowball cookie recipe is a simplified version of her magic, perfect for busy bakers like me. They’re wonderfully no-bake, meaning less fuss and more enjoyment! You won’t even miss the nuts in these delightful little bites. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Snowball Cookie Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with these incredibly easy cream cheese snowball cookies! They’re the perfect blend of simple ingredients and irresistible flavor:

Melt-in-your-mouth texture: Seriously, they just dissolve on your tongue!
Super easy to make: This is one of the most straightforward cream cheese snowball cookie recipes you’ll find.
No-bake convenience: Perfect for when you don’t want to turn on the oven.

Holiday favorite: These make beautiful and delicious additions to any festive spread.
Nut-free goodness: Enjoy these soft cream cheese snowball cookies without the worry of nuts.
Quick prep time: You can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes.

Minimal cleanup: Less mess means more time enjoying your treats!

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies

Gathering the ingredients for this delightful cream cheese snowball cookie recipe is a breeze! You’ll find most of them are pantry staples, making these easy cream cheese snowball cookies accessible any time you need a sweet fix. We’re focusing on a no-bake version today, so no oven preheating is needed here!

1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened – Using softened butter is key to getting that smooth, creamy base for our cookies.

1 cup (227g) cream cheese, softened – This is the star ingredient that gives our snowball cookies their signature tang and incredibly soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, divided – This provides sweetness and structure. We’ll use most of it in the dough and some for rolling.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For that classic, comforting cookie flavor.

1/4 teaspoon salt – A little salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or almonds) – If you’re making cream cheese pecan snowball cookies or almond cream cheese snowball cookies, add them here for a little crunch.
Optional: Sprinkles for decorating – Add a festive touch for holiday cream cheese snowball cookies!

Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies: 1 Easy Recipe - Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies - additional detail

How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies

Making these delightful cream cheese snowball cookies is a joy, even if you’re new to baking! The process is straightforward, and since they’re no-bake, you can have a batch ready in no time. These instructions will guide you to creating the best cream cheese snowball cookies that are perfectly soft and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Step 1: While this is a no-bake recipe, if you decide to bake them for a firmer cookie (see Pro Tips!), preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the 1 cup (227g) softened unsalted butter and 1 cup (227g) softened cream cheese. Beat them together with an electric mixer on medium speed until they are completely smooth and creamy. You want no lumps!
Step 3: Gradually add 2 cups (240g) of the powdered sugar, along with the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Continue mixing until everything is just combined and the texture is smooth. The mixture will start to thicken.
Step 4: Stir in the remaining 2 cups (240g) of powdered sugar by hand or on low speed. Mix until a soft, pliable dough forms. This is where you’ll get that wonderful, slightly sticky dough perfect for rolling. If you’re making cream cheese pecan snowball cookies or almond cream cheese snowball cookies, now is the time to gently fold in your optional 1/2 cup chopped nuts.

Step 5: Take about a tablespoon of dough at a time and roll it between your palms to form 1-inch balls. Aim for consistent size so they chill evenly. Place the formed balls onto your prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Carefully transfer the baking sheet with the cookie balls to the refrigerator. Chill the easy cream cheese snowball cookies for at least 30 minutes, or until they feel firm to the touch. This chilling step is crucial for their shape.
Step 7: Once chilled and firm, you can enjoy your soft cream cheese snowball cookies as is! For a festive touch, especially if making holiday cream cheese snowball cookies, you can roll the chilled cookies in additional powdered sugar or colorful sprinkles.

Pro Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies

Achieving that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture for your cream cheese snowball cookies is easier than you think! Follow these simple tips to ensure your cookies are always soft and delightful. These techniques are especially helpful for making sure your cookies don’t end up flat.

Make sure your butter and cream cheese are truly softened – not melted, but pliable. This is key for a smooth dough and preventing flatness.
Don’t overmix the dough once the powdered sugar is added. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.

Chilling is crucial! Don’t skip the refrigeration step. It firms up the dough, making them easy to handle and preventing them from spreading too much.
If you prefer a slightly firmer cookie, or if your kitchen is very warm, you can bake them briefly. A quick 8-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) can help set them.

What’s the secret to perfect cream cheese snowball cookies?

The real secret to perfect cream cheese snowball cookies is the combination of softened cream cheese and butter, plus adequate chilling time. This ensures they are soft and don’t spread, creating that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture without baking. For more baking tips, check out these latest recipes.

Can I make no-bake cream cheese snowball cookies ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! These no-bake cream cheese snowball cookies are fantastic for making ahead. You can prepare the dough, roll the balls, and chill them for up to 24 hours before coating. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with cream cheese snowball cookies?

The most common mistake is cookies turning out flat. This usually happens if the butter and cream cheese aren’t softened enough, or if the dough isn’t chilled sufficiently before handling. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature and give them ample chilling time. Understanding the science behind baking can help prevent these issues; learn more about baking science.

Best Ways to Serve Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies

These delightful cream cheese snowball cookies are so versatile, perfect for any occasion! Their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes them a wonderful accompaniment to a warm cup of coffee or tea, especially during cozy afternoons. For holiday gatherings, they look stunning arranged on a festive platter alongside other holiday treats. You’ll find that these soft cream cheese snowball cookies are also a fantastic addition to a dessert bar. They pair beautifully with fruit-based desserts, offering a creamy, sweet contrast. Imagine serving them with a slice of apple pie or a bowl of fresh berries – pure bliss!

Nutrition Facts for Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies

Understanding the nutritional breakdown of these delightful cream cheese snowball cookies helps you enjoy them mindfully. Each cookie is a small bite of sweetness, perfect for a treat without being overly indulgent. These estimates are based on the recipe yielding approximately 48 cookies.

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 120

Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g

Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 0g

Sugar: 12g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 20mg

Cholesterol: 20mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on nutritional guidelines, consult resources on healthy eating.

Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies: 1 Easy Recipe - Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies

Properly storing your delicious cream cheese snowball cookies ensures they stay soft and delightful for as long as possible. Once your cookies have completely cooled (which is quick since they’re no-bake!), place them in an airtight container. For short-term storage, keeping them at room temperature is perfectly fine for up to 3 days. If you want them to last a bit longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. These cookies are also freezer-friendly, making them a great make-ahead option for future cravings!

To freeze your cream cheese snowball cookies, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply transfer the frozen cookies to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. There’s no need to reheat these soft treats; they’re best enjoyed cold or at room temperature right out of storage. This makes them an ideal grab-and-go snack or dessert. For other make-ahead dessert ideas, check out these blueberry blondies.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies

What are cream cheese snowball cookies?

Cream cheese snowball cookies are delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treats known for their soft texture and subtle tang. Unlike traditional snowball cookies, this version uses cream cheese and butter to create a tender, often no-bake dough that’s rolled into balls and sometimes coated in powdered sugar. They’re a popular choice for holidays and celebrations because they’re so easy to make and incredibly delicious.

Why are my cream cheese snowball cookies flat?

If your cream cheese snowball cookies are turning out flat, it’s usually due to a couple of common issues. First, ensure your butter and cream cheese are properly softened – not melted, but at room temperature so they cream together smoothly. Second, the dough needs adequate chilling time. If the dough is too warm, it won’t hold its shape well. Chilling the rolled balls for at least 30 minutes is crucial for preventing them from spreading too much. For more tips on achieving perfect cookies, explore holiday cookie recipes.

Can I make cream cheese snowball cookies without nuts?

Absolutely! This recipe is fantastic as a nut-free option. The base dough is made from cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar, so it doesn’t rely on nuts for structure or flavor. You can easily omit the optional nuts entirely, making these perfect cream cheese snowball cookies for school treats or for anyone with nut allergies. They’re wonderfully soft and delicious just as they are!

How do I make cream cheese snowball cookies more festive?

To make your cream cheese snowball cookies extra festive, especially for holidays, try rolling the chilled cookie balls in colorful sprinkles before serving. You can also dust them lightly with edible glitter or add a tiny bit of food coloring to the dough before rolling (though this can sometimes affect texture). Arranging them on a festive plate or in holiday-themed cupcake liners also adds a lovely touch. Consider pairing them with other festive treats like apple snickerdoodles.

Variations of Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies You Can Try

While this cream cheese snowball cookie recipe is already fantastic, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs! These variations offer exciting ways to enjoy these melt-in-your-mouth treats. Whether you’re looking for different flavors, dietary accommodations, or even a baked version, there’s a twist for everyone.

Keto Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies: For a low-carb option, simply swap out the powdered sugar for a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or a monk fruit blend. The rest of the recipe stays the same, giving you a delicious, guilt-free treat. These keto cream cheese snowball cookies are a game-changer for those on a ketogenic diet.
Gluten-Free Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies: Making these cookies gluten-free is a breeze! Ensure you use a certified gluten-free powdered sugar. For added texture, you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend, though the current recipe is designed to be flourless and relies on the sugar for structure. These gluten-free cream cheese snowball cookies are perfect for those with sensitivities.

Baked Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies: If you prefer a slightly firmer cookie with a bit more structure, you can bake them! After rolling the balls, chill them for 30 minutes, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. They won’t be quite as soft but will have a lovely, slightly crisp exterior.
Flavor Infusions: Get creative with flavors! Add a teaspoon of lemon or almond extract along with the vanilla for different flavor profiles. You could also add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for chocolate cream cheese snowball cookies or a few drops of peppermint extract for a festive holiday twist.