Rich Soft Chocolate Snowball (Printer-Friendly Version)

Soft chocolate snowballs featuring mini chips and a snowy powdered sugar finish for a cozy treat.

# Ingredients Needed:

→ Dairy

01 - 1 1/4 cups unsalted butter, softened

→ Sweeteners

02 - 2/3 cup powdered sugar, divided

→ Flavorings

03 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

→ Dry Ingredients

04 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
05 - 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Mix-ins

07 - 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Set oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
02 - In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix to combine.
03 - Add the flour, cocoa powder, and salt to the creamed mixture. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
04 - Gently fold mini chocolate chips into the dough ensuring even distribution without overworking.
05 - Scoop one tablespoon portions of dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 16 to 18 minutes until set but still soft.
06 - Allow cookies to cool slightly, then roll in powdered sugar for the first coating. After cooling completely on a wire rack, roll in powdered sugar again for a thick, snowy finish.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - For thicker, rounder cookies, bake on a silicone mat; parchment paper yields slightly thinner, softer cookies.
02 - Resting shaped dough on the baking tray while preheating the oven helps maintain tender, thicker centers.
03 - Double coating with powdered sugar prevents melting and clumping for a perfect snowy appearance.