Introduction to Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself dreaming of sweet treats that bring joy to my family. That’s where my Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies come in! These delightful little bites combine the rich flavors of traditional tiramisu with the festive spirit of the season. Perfect for busy moms like us, they’re quick to whip up and sure to impress your loved ones. Imagine the smiles on their faces as they take a bite of these soft, chocolatey cookies dusted with powdered sugar. Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds!
PrintChristmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies: A Sweet Surprise!
Delicious Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies that combine the flavors of traditional tiramisu in a festive cookie form.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the espresso, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Gradually add the flour and cocoa powder, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Shape the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set.
- Allow the cookies to cool slightly before rolling them in powdered sugar.
- Let them cool completely before serving.
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, increase the amount of espresso.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Feel free to add a splash of coffee liqueur for an adult version.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies
These Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies are a holiday miracle for busy schedules! They come together in just 35 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute treat. The combination of rich espresso and chocolate creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone raving. Plus, they’re easy to make, so even if you’re juggling a million things, you can still whip up a batch that feels special and festive!
Ingredients for Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted butter: This is the base of your cookies, providing richness and a tender texture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Powdered sugar: This sweetener gives the cookies a light, melt-in-your-mouth quality. It’s also perfect for dusting at the end!
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of any cookie, it helps create structure. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Cocoa powder: This adds a deep chocolate flavor, making your cookies taste indulgent. Opt for unsweetened for the best results.
- Espresso or strong coffee: This is the secret ingredient that brings the tiramisu flavor to life. Use cooled espresso for a robust taste.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to your cookies. Always choose pure vanilla for the best flavor.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
- Chocolate chips: These little morsels of joy add extra chocolatey goodness. You can use dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips!
- Additional powdered sugar: For that final dusting, making your cookies look as good as they taste.
For those who want to get creative, consider adding a splash of coffee liqueur for an adult twist. You can find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of cookies that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even baking. If you skip this step, your cookies might end up unevenly cooked. Trust me, you want that perfect texture!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This process is key to achieving a soft, tender cookie. The air you incorporate during creaming helps the cookies rise beautifully. So, take your time here!
Step 3: Add Espresso and Vanilla
Next, mix in the cooled espresso and vanilla extract. These flavors are what make your cookies taste like a slice of tiramisu! Stir gently until everything is well combined. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cocoa powder. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; you want to combine just until you see no more flour. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we definitely don’t want that!
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Now, it’s time to fold in those chocolate chips. Use a spatula to gently incorporate them into the dough. Folding helps maintain the light texture of your cookies, so be gentle and don’t rush this step!
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Using your hands, shape the dough into small balls, about one inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie. They’ll spread a little while baking, so give them room to breathe!
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when the edges are set but the centers are still soft. They’ll firm up as they cool.
Step 8: Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once the cookies have cooled slightly, roll them in powdered sugar. This final touch not only adds sweetness but also gives them that beautiful snowball appearance. It’s the perfect festive finish!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes, ensuring even baking.
- Chill the dough for 15 minutes if it feels too soft to shape.
- Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for even results.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is handy; you can use any large bowl you have.
- Electric mixer: This makes creaming easier, but a whisk works too if you’re feeling strong!
- Baking sheet: A standard one will do; line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cookie scoop: This helps with uniform sizes; a tablespoon works in a pinch.
- Cooling rack: Ideal for letting cookies cool; a plate can work as an alternative.
Variations of Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or hazelnuts for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Minty Twist: Incorporate peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a refreshing holiday flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and replace the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture for a plant-based treat.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for the season.
Serving Suggestions for Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies
- Pair these cookies with a steaming cup of espresso or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
- Serve them on a festive platter, dusted with extra powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
- For a fun twist, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
- Include a sprig of mint or holly for a beautiful holiday presentation.
FAQs about Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just shape the cookies and bake them when you’re ready to enjoy a fresh batch.
What can I substitute for espresso?
If you don’t have espresso on hand, strong brewed coffee works just as well. The key is to use a robust flavor to mimic the tiramisu essence.
How should I store the cookies?
Store your Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.
What’s the best way to serve these cookies?
Serve them dusted with powdered sugar alongside a warm beverage. They make a delightful addition to any holiday gathering or cozy night in!
Final Thoughts
Making Christmas Tiramisu Snowball Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories with loved ones. The joy of watching my family’s faces light up as they take that first bite is priceless. These cookies are a delightful blend of flavors that capture the essence of the holiday season. Plus, they’re simple enough to whip up even on the busiest days. So, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these cookies are sure to bring warmth and happiness to your home. Embrace the festive spirit and enjoy every delicious moment!