Name: Delightful Snowman Cookies for a Festive Family Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 530 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (unsalted, softened); 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened); 1 cup Sugar; 1 large Egg (room temperature); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 1 tsp Almond Extract; 1 tsp Coconut Extract; 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (measured carefully); 1 tsp Baking Powder; 1 cup Miniature Semisweet Chocolate Chips (for eyes); 1 cup M&M’s (Mini) (for buttons); 2 cups Confectioners' Sugar (for frosting); 2 tbsp Milk (for frosting consistency); 1 tbsp Food Coloring (for decoration); 12 pieces Miniature Milk Chocolate Kisses (for hats)

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The aroma of freshly baked cookies fills my kitchen, bringing a wave of nostalgia that instantly sparks joy. These adorable Snowman Cookies, made with the delightful combination of cream cheese and butter, are not only irresistibly fluffy but also perfect for festive decorating. With hints of vanilla, almond, and coconut, each bite transports you to a winter wonderland while ensuring smiles from both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re planning a cozy family baking day or looking to bring some festive charm to your dessert table, these holiday cookies are a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, allowing even the littlest chefs to lend a hand. Curious to learn how to create these charming treats? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Make Snowman Cookies?

Adorable, these cookies bring a whimsical holiday spirit to your dessert table. Fluffy texture is achieved through a creamy blend of cream cheese and butter, providing melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Fun for all ages, decorating snowmen is an exciting activity that engages kids and adults alike. Crowd-ready, they are sure to be the highlight of any festive gathering. Versatile decorations allow you to adapt their look with seasonal candies, ensuring a unique treat every time. Enjoy the delightful flavors and smiles these snowman cookies inspire this holiday season!

Snowman Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Butter – Use unsalted for better control of salt content.
• Cream Cheese – Ensure it’s softened for easy mixing and a fluffy texture.
• Sugar – Sweetens the dough while promoting browning during baking.
• Egg – Opt for a large egg at room temperature to bind the mixture effectively.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; can swap with extra almond extract if desired.
• Almond Extract – Adds a nutty flavor; substitute with more vanilla for nut allergies.
• Coconut Extract – Contributes a unique flavor profile; replace with an equal amount of vanilla if needed.
• All-Purpose Flour – Measure carefully to provide the right structure to the cookies.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for lighter cookies.

For the Decoration
• Miniature Semisweet Chocolate Chips – Use for snowman eyes; raisins can be a cute swap!
• M&M’s (Mini) – Decorate as buttons; mix colors for a festive touch.
• Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens frosting; can use granulated sugar if finely ground.
• Milk – Adjusts frosting consistency; choose dairy or non-dairy based on preference.
• Food Coloring – Tints frosting to create vibrant and fun decorations.
• Miniature Milk Chocolate Kisses – Serve as snowman hats; substitute with other chocolate candies if desired.

Make these Snowman Cookies a delightful part of your holiday celebrations!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Snowman Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and cream cheese with sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This creamy blend will serve as the delicious base for your Snowman Cookies, ensuring a rich flavor and tender texture.

Step 2: Add the Egg and Flavor Extracts
Next, add in one large room-temperature egg along with vanilla, almond, and coconut extracts. Beat the mixture on low speed until everything is thoroughly incorporated, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The extracts will impart festive flavors, making your cookies extraordinary.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed ingredients while mixing on low speed. This step creates a smooth dough, so keep mixing until no visible flour remains, then cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough overnight to firm up.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This temperature ensures that your Snowman Cookies bake evenly. As the oven heats up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper for easy cookie release.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using chilled dough, take small portions to form three different sized balls (1-inch, ¾-inch, and ½-inch) for each snowman. Arrange these on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring there is enough space between them for spreading, which should be about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake the Snowman Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, observing the cookies closely. They should be lightly browned around the edges while remaining soft in the center. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the pans for 2 minutes.

Step 7: Add the Chocolate Chips and M&M’s
While the cookies are still warm, gently press the miniature semisweet chocolate chips into the larger cookies for eyes and use M&M’s for decorative buttons. This step not only enhances the festive appearance of your Snowman Cookies but also makes them irresistibly cute!

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together confectioners’ sugar, coconut extract, and enough milk to achieve a smooth piping consistency, about 1-2 tablespoons. Divide the frosting if you wish to tint it with food coloring, enhancing your decorations and bringing your snowmen to life.

Step 9: Decorate the Snowmen
Using a piping bag, create scarves around the necks of your snowmen and position the miniature milk chocolate kisses as hats. Allow the frosting to set for a few minutes to ensure your Snowman Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, ready for sharing and enjoying.

What to Serve with Adorable Snowman Cookies?

These delightful cookies are perfect for creating a festive spread that will bring warmth to any holiday gathering!

Hot Cocoa Bar: Create a cozy hot chocolate station with marshmallows and whipped cream to complement the sweetness of your snowman cookies.
Gingerbread Milkshake: This creamy, spiced milkshake adds a fun twist and makes for a delightful treat alongside the cookies.
Fruit Platter: A colorful array of fresh fruits like grapes and strawberries offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookies.
Festive Cheddar Cheese Board: Add some aged cheddar and crackers for a savory balance that perfectly offsets the sweetness of the snowman cookies.
Peppermint Bark: A crunchy, chocolatey treat that mirrors the festive spirit of the cookies, making it an ideal sweet pairing.
Eggnog: Serve this creamy holiday classic to elevate your dessert table and match the warm festive flavors of your cookies.
Spiced Tea: A warm spiced tea can melt the chill away, pairing nicely with the soft sweetness of snowman cookies.
Christmas Fruitcake: A traditional holiday dessert that adds a rich and festive element, creating a beautifully nostalgic combination on your dessert table.

Indulge in these delightful pairings to create a truly memorable holiday experience with your adorable snowman cookies!

How to Store and Freeze Snowman Cookies

Room Temperature: Store decorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, enjoying their festive flavors while they’re fresh.

Fridge: If you want to keep them a bit longer, place the cookies in the refrigerator where they’ll stay good for up to six days; just make sure to use a sealed container.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked dough by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, keeping for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

Reheating: If you’ve decorated cookies that are stored in the fridge, let them come to room temperature before serving. Enjoy your delightful snowman cookies!

Snowman Cookies: Fun Variations!

Feel free to get creative with these adorable snowman cookies—your kitchen is your canvas!

Minty Fresh: Swap in peppermint extract for a festive twist; the cooling flavor adds a delightful holiday kick.
Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the dough for chocolatey snowman cookies; they’re a sure hit for any chocolate aficionado. Picture these cookies drizzled with chocolate icing—what a treat!
Gluten-Free Delight: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend; the cookies will still be fluffy while accommodating gluten sensitivities. Just ensure the blend is suitable for cookies!
Nut-Free Options: If nuts are a concern, opt for additional vanilla extract instead of almond for a delightful flavor without worry.
Holiday Sprinkles: Elevate your snowmen with festive sprinkles; they bring a touch of color and cheer to each bite. Imagine the joy on kids’ faces as they watch the decorations come to life!
Dried Fruit Decor: Swap M&M’s with colorful dried fruits like cranberries and apricots for a chewy, fruity touch. It’s a fun surprise that adds natural sweetness.
Tropical Twist: Mix in a hint of coconut flake into the dough for added texture; this twist transports you straight to a sunny beach even in winter.
Texture Variation: For crunch, toss in some chopped nuts or seeds—pecans or sunflower seeds work beautifully. These will add a delightful crunch to sweet softness.

And if you’re curious about more cookie recipes, consider trying out these delightful options: Mango Cookies Delightful or even our cozy Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies. Each will add a special touch to your cookie collection!

Make Ahead Options

These adorable Snowman Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks eager to spread some holiday cheer without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply make it as directed and refrigerate. To maintain the cookies’ fluffy texture and prevent them from spreading when baking, keep the dough tightly wrapped. You can also bake them ahead of time and store the cooled cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just frost and decorate your snowman cookies to bring them to life. Enjoy the delightful process of holiday baking while saving precious time!

Tips for the Best Snowman Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy blending and a smooth cookie dough.
Chill the Dough: Refrigerating your cookie dough overnight helps prevent excessive spreading during baking, keeping your snowman shapes intact.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be lightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center for that perfect fluffy Snowman Cookies texture.
Decorate Wisely: Add chocolate chips and M&M’s while cookies are warm to ensure they stick well. Decorate using vibrant frosting to bring your snowmen to life!
Batch Baking: Bake your cookies in batches to avoid overcrowding; this ensures even baking and beautiful results for each batch.

Snowman Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for snowman cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose unsalted butter and ensure your cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing. When it comes to extracts, use pure vanilla, almond, and coconut extracts if available—these will enrich your cookies. Also, look for all-purpose flour that has been freshly opened for optimal results.

How should I store decorated snowman cookies?
For the best enjoyment, store your decorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to six days. Just make sure to keep them sealed to maintain that lovely fluffy texture!

Can I freeze the cookie dough for future use?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked snowman cookie dough for up to three months. Just wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before shaping and baking as directed.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your cookies spread excessively, it may be due to the dough being too warm or too soft. To solve this, keep your dough cool in the refrigerator before shaping. You can also try using a bit more flour to ensure a firmer texture. And always make sure to chill the dough as instructed!

Can I make these snowman cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can make gluten-free snowman cookies! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for brands that contain xanthan gum, which can help mimic the structure of regular flour. This way, you can still enjoy these delightful snowman cookies with friends or family who follow a gluten-free diet!