Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Ever had a cookie that melts in your mouth and makes you smile? Yeah, that’s these snowball cookies. Peanut butter, chocolate chips, and powdered sugar? I mean, come on.

We made a batch last weekend, and wow—they disappeared in minutes. They’re soft, crumbly, and just the right kind of sweet. The peanut butter makes them rich, and those tiny chocolate chips? Little bites of happy.

I love how easy they are too. No fuss, no chill time—just mix, roll, and bake. And when you dust them with sugar, they look like tiny snowballs!

So let’s bake some together. You bring the cozy vibes, I’ll bring the recipe. Let’s do this.

Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

• Reader Favorite: Fans of peanut butter and chocolate will go wild for these cookies. “Can’t stop eating them,” “Best cookies ever,” and “My new favorite!” are just some of the rave reviews I’ve received.
• Super Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, these cookies come together quickly. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof.
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Thanks to the combination of butter and peanut butter, the cookies have that classic snowball texture—soft, tender, and delicate.
• No-Chill Required: Unlike some cookie recipes that require chilling the dough for hours, these cookies are ready to bake in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday, or just because, these cookies fit any celebration or casual snack moment.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies, you won’t need a lot of fancy tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowls: To combine your wet and dry ingredients.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: If you have one, using a mixer can speed up the process and ensure that your butter, sugar, and peanut butter are well-blended. But you can also mix by hand.
• Cookie Scoop: This makes it easy to portion out the dough into uniform cookie balls. A tablespoon measure will work too.
• Baking Sheets: Line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Cooling Rack: To let your cookies cool completely before serving or storing them.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delectable cookies (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

• Unsalted Butter (room temperature): The base of any great cookie dough, butter adds flavor and richness to the dough. Make sure it’s at room temperature to blend smoothly.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: For that peanut flavor we all love. Use creamy peanut butter for the best texture in your cookies.
• Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the dough and helps create the chewy texture of the cookies.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the flavor profile and balances the sweetness.
• All-Purpose Flour (scooped and leveled): This is the main structure of the dough. Be sure to scoop your flour into the measuring cup and level it off to avoid adding too much flour, which can make the cookies dry.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: These are the little bursts of chocolate in each bite. Mini chips work best as they melt evenly and are easier to handle in the dough.
• Powdered Sugar: For rolling the cookies in after baking, giving them that classic snowball look and extra sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to bake these delicious cookies! Don’t worry; this process is straightforward, and I’m here to guide you through each step.

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure even baking.

2. Cream Together the Butter and Peanut Butter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter together until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed, or simply use a spoon and mix by hand. You want the two to blend into a uniform consistency.

3. Add the Granulated Sugar and Vanilla

Next, add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract to the butter and peanut butter mixture. Beat again until the sugar is fully incorporated, and the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour. Then, gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

5. Fold in the Mini Chocolate Chips

Now, it’s time to add the fun part: the mini chocolate chips! Use a spatula to gently fold them into the dough, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without overworking the dough.

6. Scoop and Shape the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Each ball should be about 1 inch in diameter. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

7. Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.

8. Roll the Cookies in Powdered Sugar

Once the cookies are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. While they’re still warm, gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar to create that signature snowball coating.

9. Cool the Cookies Completely

After rolling the cookies in powdered sugar, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The powdered sugar coating will harden as the cookies cool, leaving you with that beautiful snowball effect.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

These cookies are a treat on their own, but here are some fun ways to serve them:

• With a Glass of Milk: Nothing beats the classic combination of cookies and milk. These cookies are especially delicious with a cold glass of milk.
• In a Cookie Box or Gift Jar: If you’re making these as a gift, pack them in a cute box or jar, tied with a ribbon. They make a perfect homemade gift for the holidays or any special occasion.
• As a Dessert for Parties: Serve them at your next gathering or bake sale. They’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
• With Ice Cream: Crumble a few cookies over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a peanut butter-chocolate-chunk topping that takes dessert to the next level.

Storing Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

These cookies are soft and delicate, so they need to be stored carefully:

• At Room Temperature: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Just be sure to place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, and layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking.

1. Add Chopped Nuts for Extra Crunch

If you love the texture of nuts, you can add chopped peanuts, almonds, or even cashews to the cookie dough. Simply stir in about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of nuts along with the chocolate chips. This will give the cookies a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the soft, chewy dough.

2. Use Dark Chocolate Chips for a Richer Flavor

Instead of mini chocolate chips, try using dark chocolate chips for a more intense, bittersweet flavor. The richness of dark chocolate balances beautifully with the peanut butter’s sweetness, creating a more sophisticated flavor profile.

3. Add a Touch of Sea Salt

For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a little sea salt over the cookies right after they come out of the oven. The salty-sweet combo is a fan favorite and really elevates the taste. Try it with just a light pinch of flaky sea salt for the best results.

4. Make Them Gluten-Free

If you need to make these cookies gluten-free, swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use one that’s designed for baking to maintain the cookies’ texture. You can also check the labels on your peanut butter and chocolate chips to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

5. Add a Dash of Cinnamon

For a subtle spice that complements the peanut butter flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dough. Cinnamon’s warm, cozy notes enhance the overall flavor of the cookies, making them perfect for fall and winter baking.

6. Try Peanut Butter Chips Instead of Mini Chocolate Chips

If you want a peanut butter lover’s dream, use peanut butter chips instead of chocolate chips. This will give the cookies an even stronger peanut butter flavor while still keeping the chocolate flavor in the mix. It’s a delicious twist on the original recipe!

7. Add M&Ms or Sprinkles for a Fun Twist

To make these cookies even more fun, try adding colorful M&Ms or sprinkles. They’ll give the cookies a festive look and a pop of color, making them perfect for birthday parties or holidays like Easter or Christmas.

8. Drizzle with Chocolate

For extra decadence, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies. You can use either milk chocolate or dark chocolate. The addition of the chocolate drizzle makes the cookies look elegant and adds another layer of chocolate goodness.

9. Swap Peanut Butter for Almond or Cashew Butter

If you prefer other nut butters, almond butter or cashew butter would make a great substitute for peanut butter. These nut butters bring their own unique flavors and richness to the cookies while still keeping the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

10. Make the Cookies into Bars

If you prefer a less labor-intensive approach, you can turn this recipe into cookie bars. Simply press the dough into a greased 9×9-inch baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

While this recipe is simple and straightforward, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

1. Measure Your Ingredients Carefully

Accurate measurements are key when baking, as even small differences in the amount of flour or butter can affect the outcome. Be sure to scoop and level your flour to avoid using too much, which could make your cookies dry or tough.

2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

For the best results, make sure your butter and peanut butter are at room temperature before mixing. This will help them blend together smoothly, ensuring a soft and fluffy dough.

3. Don’t Overmix the Dough

When adding the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. It’s better to under-mix than over-mix, so be gentle when incorporating the flour.

4. Use a Cookie Scoop for Consistent Shapes

For uniform cookies that bake evenly, use a cookie scoop. This tool helps you measure out dough balls of the same size, ensuring your cookies bake at the same rate. You can use a tablespoon measure if you don’t have a cookie scoop.

5. Let the Cookies Cool on the Baking Sheet

After removing the cookies from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them set up and makes them easier to transfer to a cooling rack. If you try to move them too early, they might fall apart.

6. Don’t Skip the Powdered Sugar Coating

While optional, rolling the cookies in powdered sugar gives them that signature “snowball” look and adds an extra sweetness. Don’t skip this step—it’s part of what makes these cookies so special!

7. Keep an Eye on the Baking Time

Each oven is different, so be sure to check your cookies toward the end of the baking time. You want them to be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Keep in mind that the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

These cookies are as versatile as they are delicious. Here are some great ideas for serving and enjoying them:

• On Their Own: These cookies are delicious on their own and make the perfect snack or dessert. Pair them with a cup of coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk for the ultimate treat.
• As Part of a Cookie Platter: If you’re hosting a party or a holiday get-together, arrange these cookies alongside other treats like sugar cookies, snickerdoodles, and chocolate chip cookies for a beautiful cookie platter.
• For Dessert: Serve these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or crumble them over yogurt or a bowl of pudding for a simple but satisfying dessert.
• As a Homemade Gift: Pack a batch of these cookies into a gift box or jar and give them to friends and family. These make a thoughtful, homemade gift for birthdays, holidays, or just because.

1. Storing at Room Temperature

If you plan to enjoy your cookies within a few days, storing them at room temperature is the easiest option. Here’s how to do it:

• Airtight Container: Place the cooled cookies in an airtight container. This helps to keep the moisture in, preventing them from drying out.
• Layering with Parchment Paper: If you need to stack the cookies in the container, layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking.
• Shelf Life: These cookies will stay fresh for about 4-5 days when stored at room temperature. Just be sure to keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat.

2. Storing in the Freezer for Longer Shelf Life

If you want to keep your cookies for a longer period, freezing them is a great option. Here’s how to store them in the freezer:

• Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool completely before freezing to prevent moisture buildup, which could make them soggy.
• Freezer-Safe Bag or Container: Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to press out any excess air to avoid freezer burn.
• Layering: If you want to layer the cookies, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer to keep them from sticking together.
• Shelf Life in Freezer: These cookies can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before eating.

3. Freezing the Dough for Later

Another great option is to freeze the dough itself, so you can bake fresh cookies whenever you want. Here’s how to do it:

• Scoop the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough and roll it into balls.
• Freeze the Dough Balls: Place the dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours until firm. This prevents the dough balls from sticking together.
• Transfer to a Freezer-Safe Bag or Container: After the dough balls are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Label the bag with the date and baking instructions.
• Baking from Frozen: When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw the dough. Simply preheat your oven and bake the frozen dough balls for an extra 2-3 minutes. The cookies will still turn out perfectly!

Nutritional Information for Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional value of each Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookie. Keep in mind that the exact numbers may vary depending on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount (per cookie)
Calories	150
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	2g
Trans Fat	0g
Cholesterol	5mg
Sodium	70mg
Total Carbohydrates	20g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	12g
Protein	2g
Vitamin A	2% of the Daily Value
Calcium	2% of the Daily Value
Iron	2% of the Daily Value

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If you prefer to make the cookies ahead and freeze them, that’s a great option too. Freezing the cookies or dough allows you to bake fresh cookies whenever you need them!

2. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

While creamy peanut butter gives these cookies the soft texture we love, you can certainly substitute crunchy peanut butter for a bit more texture. The cookies will still turn out delicious, but the crunchier peanut butter will add a different bite to each cookie.

3. Can I use other types of nut butters?

Yes! You can use almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter if you prefer. Keep in mind that the flavor will change depending on the nut butter you use, but the texture should remain similar. Just be sure to use the same amount as the recipe calls for.

4. How can I make these cookies even more indulgent?

To make these cookies even more indulgent, try drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or adding a handful of chopped candy like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or M&Ms. For a more decadent treat, you can also stuff the cookie dough with chunks of chocolate or a caramel center.

5. Can I make these cookies without powdered sugar?

Yes, you can skip the powdered sugar coating if you prefer. While it’s part of what gives these cookies their snowball look and sweetness, they’ll still taste delicious without it. You can also roll them in granulated sugar before baking for a different texture.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are the perfect combination of creamy peanut butter, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and just the right amount of chocolatey sweetness. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves peanut butter and chocolate.

With simple ingredients, minimal prep time, and plenty of room for customization, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites. From the festive powdered sugar coating to the melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are a treat for all the senses.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible cookies. Whether you keep them for yourself or share them with friends and family, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time!