Name: Delightful Snowman Cookies for Festive Holiday Fun
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 530 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg (at room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon coconut extract (optional); 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup miniature semisweet chocolate chips; 1 cup M&M's Minis; 2 cups confectioners' sugar; 1 tablespoon milk (adjust for consistency); 1 teaspoon food coloring (for tinting)

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The smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air during the holidays is truly magical, isn’t it? These Festive Snowman Cookies with Cream Cheese are not only a delightful addition to your Christmas baking but also incredibly easy to decorate, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. The combination of rich cream cheese and butter results in a soft, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth, ensuring you have both a treat and a crowd-pleaser in one. Plus, their festive appearance will brighten any holiday gathering, giving you a chance to showcase your creativity and have fun in the kitchen. Ready to spread some holiday cheer? Let’s dive into the whimsical world of snowman cookies!

Why Are Snowman Cookies So Enjoyable?

Fun to Decorate: Channel your inner artist with these playful cookies! The simple shapes and colorful toppings make decorating a delightful activity for all ages.

Moist and Fluffy: Thanks to the cream cheese, each cookie has a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a holiday party or a cozy family gathering, these festive treats make a charming centerpiece and conversation starter.

Endless Creativity: Customize your snowmen with a variety of decorations—swap M&M’s for seasonal gems or try different extracts like peppermint for a unique twist!

Easy to Make Ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and freeze it. Then, bake fresh cookies on demand during the busy holiday season!

If you love cookie decorating, check out my Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies for another festive option that’s equally fun!

Snowman Cookies Ingredients

Let’s gather everything you need to create these delightful snowman cookies that will bring a smile to every face!

For the Cookie Dough

Butter – Use unsalted butter for better control over salt levels, ensuring a rich flavor.
Cream Cheese – Softened cream cheese adds moisture and a unique flavor that enhances the cookies.
Sugar – Granulated sugar sweetens the dough and contributes to the cookies’ structure.
Egg – A large egg at room temperature binds the ingredients together for optimal texture.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; can be substituted with almond or coconut extract for variations.
Coconut Extract – Optional, adds a tropical hint; can be omitted if preferred.
All-Purpose Flour – Ensure accurate measurement to maintain the cookies’ fluffiness and structure.
Baking Powder – A leavening agent crucial for achieving that delightful rise.

For the Decorations

Miniature Semisweet Chocolate Chips – Perfect for adding those cute eyes to your snowmen; milk chocolate chips can be sweeter.
M&M’s Minis – Use these colorful treats as buttons for an adorable touch, choosing seasonal colors to match the holidays.

For the Frosting

Confectioners’ Sugar – Creates a sweet and smooth frosting essential for decorating.
Milk – Adjust the consistency of the frosting as needed for ease of piping.
Food Coloring – Use to tint frosting; red or green add a festive flair for scarves.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating the most adorable snowman cookies ever! Get ready for some fun Christmas baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Snowman Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 8 oz of softened cream cheese, and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (and optional coconut extract) until fully combined. The dough should be smooth and well-blended, ready for the next step.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder until evenly mixed. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the creamed mixture, stirring until just combined. The dough will be somewhat soft but should come together nicely. Transition to the chilling process to enhance the cookies’ texture.

Step 3: Chill Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. For the best results, refrigerate the dough overnight, allowing it to firm up. This step is crucial as it helps the dough hold its shape during baking, ensuring your adorable snowman cookies maintain their form.

Step 4: Shape Cookies
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) while the dough chills. Once ready, roll out different-sized balls for your snowmen—48 balls each of 1-inch, 3/4-inch, and 1/2-inch. Arrange them on ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading when baked.

Step 5: Bake
Bake the snowman cookies in your preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake; they should have a soft center when removed from the oven. Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheets before decorating.

Step 6: Decorate
Once the cookies are cool, it’s time for the fun! Gently press miniature semisweet chocolate chips into the larger cookie balls to create eyes, and place M&M’s Minis on the middle and smaller cookies for buttons. This step transforms your baked treats into charming snowmen, setting the stage for the final touches.

Step 7: Frost
To prepare the frosting, mix 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar with a splash of milk and a touch of coconut extract until smooth and pipe-ready. Adjust the milk as needed for your desired consistency. Use this frosting to pipe adorable scarves on each snowman and attach chocolate kisses as festive hats, completing your delightful snowman cookies.

Expert Tips for Snowman Cookies

Soft Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy creaming and a fluffy texture in your snowman cookies.
Chill Time: Don’t skip chilling the dough! This crucial step helps maintain shape while baking, preventing flat cookies.
Proper Sizing: Use a kitchen scale for uniform cookie sizes—each snowman should have consistent proportions to look adorable.
Baking Sheets: Let the baking sheets cool between batches to avoid burning your next batch of cookies. If you use parchment paper, cookie transfer will be easier!
Decorative Freedom: Feel free to get creative! Try different candies for decorations or themed frosting colors to personalize your snowman cookies for various celebrations.
Storage Tips: Store your decorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep them fresh and delicious!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Snowman Cookies are perfect for busy holiday bakers looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by covering it and refrigerating it overnight. This chilling step not only enhances the flavor but also helps maintain the cookies’ shape during baking. If you want to prep even further ahead, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months; simply thaw it in the refrigerator for a few hours before rolling and shaping. Once baked and cooled, decorate your cookies as desired and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. By organizing ahead of time, you can enjoy fresh, festive cookies with minimal effort on those busy holiday days!

What to Serve with Festive Snowman Cookies

The delightful scent of freshly baked cookies is even better when paired with delicious side treats and beverages to elevate your holiday gathering!

Hot Chocolate Bar: Create a cozy hot chocolate station with marshmallows, whipped cream, and crushed candy canes to complement these festive treats.
Sugar Cookie Dough Dip: A sweet, creamy dip made with cookie dough flavors that will be a hit for dipping your snowman cookies right into!
Winter Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of pomegranate seeds, citrus segments, and mint to balance the sweetness and add freshness to your dessert table.
Homemade Eggnog: Serve this classic holiday drink alongside your cookies for a festive pairing that will warm the heart and spirits of your guests.
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The sweet and salty combination pairs perfectly with the fluffy sweetness of snowman cookies while adding a crunchy texture for variety.
Gingerbread Milkshake: Blend up a fun holiday shake with gingerbread flavors to enhance the festive experience and tantalize your taste buds with seasonal spice!

How to Store and Freeze Snowman Cookies

Room Temperature: Store decorated snowman cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and fluffy.

Fridge: If you want them to last longer, refrigerate the cookies for up to 6 days in an airtight container. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked cookie dough in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Reheating: If the cookies lose their texture after freezing, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F for a few minutes to restore their softness.

Snowman Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Unlock the full potential of your snowman cookies by getting creative with delightful variations! The fun never ends when you can mix and match flavors, textures, and colors.

Flavor Twist: Experiment by adding extracts like peppermint or orange to the dough for a fresh twist. The aroma will elevate your holiday spirit even further!
Candy Swap: Swap out chocolate kisses for your favorite candies, like Reese’s pieces or seasonal chocolates. Sweet surprises await with each decoration!
Frosting Fun: Eager to change things up? Use colored frosting and sprinkles to care for every occasion beyond Christmas, making them a year-round favorite!
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for inclusive baking. Your snowmen can now shine, no matter the dietary needs!
Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the dough for extra texture and flavor. This slight crunch will contrast beautifully with the soft cookies.
Heat It Up: For a spicy kick, mix cinnamon or cayenne pepper into the dough. It adds an unexpected warmth and an exciting flavor that takes classic cookies to the next level!
Decorative Techniques: Try using edible glitter or candy eyes for a sparkle to your snowmen. The new presentation will bring delight to every festive gathering.

For more festive ideas, you might enjoy making Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies or creating something special with Cotton Candy Cookies. Enjoy experimenting with these variations, and let your creativity run wild!

Snowman Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results, always use room temperature butter and cream cheese, as they blend more easily, contributing to the cookies’ fluffiness. Check your butter for a creamy texture, and ensure your cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in your dough.

How do I store leftover snowman cookies?
To keep your festive treats fresh, store decorated snowman cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 6 days. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze your unbaked snowman cookie dough for up to 3 months. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, move it to the refrigerator overnight to thaw before shaping and baking.

What should I do if my cookies are too flat?
Very good question! If your snowman cookies come out too flat, it may be due to not chilling the dough adequately. Make sure to refrigerate the dough for at least a few hours—preferably overnight—to help maintain shape while baking. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rising.

Are snowman cookies safe for pets?
It’s essential to keep in mind that chocolate and sugar can be harmful to pets. The chocolate chips and M&M’s used for decoration should be strictly kept away from your furry friends. Always check the ingredients of any treats you’re allowing your pets to sniff!

Can I use alternative ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you have dietary considerations, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version. For dairy-free options, consider using a dairy-free cream cheese and butter substitute. Always check the labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs!