The holiday season is a time for creating lasting memories, and there’s no better way to share that joy than through baking. When you think of Christmas cookies, you might picture classics like sugar cookies or gingerbread, but there’s something irresistibly festive about Red Velvet Snowball Cookies with White Chocolate Filling. These treats aren’t just a feast for the taste buds—they are a stunning visual treat as well.
Imagine a soft, buttery cookie with a delicate red velvet flavor, dusted with powdered sugar, and hiding a sweet white chocolate center. The contrast of the snowball-like exterior with the creamy filling inside will leave your guests wanting more. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for a special gift for a loved one, these cookies are bound to be a hit.
What Are Red Velvet Snowball Cookies with White Chocolate Filling?
Red Velvet Snowball Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional snowball cookies, blending the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake with the iconic, crumbly texture of a snowball cookie. The dough is made with cocoa powder, creating a subtle chocolate taste, and the cookies are rolled in powdered sugar to give them that “snowball” appearance. However, the true magic lies inside—the cookies are filled with smooth, melted white chocolate, making every bite a sweet, creamy surprise.
These cookies stand out not just because of their color, but also their texture. The exterior is soft and slightly crumbly, while the interior holds a rich, velvety, and melt-in-your-mouth filling that elevates the taste and makes every bite an indulgence.
Why You’ll Love Red Velvet Snowball Cookies
Appeal to the Senses
Red Velvet Snowball Cookies aren’t just a treat for the taste buds—they’re a feast for all your senses.
- Taste: The cookies combine the richness of red velvet cake with a smooth, creamy white chocolate filling, creating a perfect balance of sweet and decadent flavors. It’s a cookie that delights with every bite.
- Texture: The contrast between the delicate, crumbly dough and the smooth white chocolate center is what makes these cookies so irresistible. The outside has a light crunch from the powdered sugar, while the inside is soft and creamy.
- Visual Appeal: These cookies are striking to look at. The bright red color and snow-white sugar coating make them perfect for any festive occasion, adding a pop of color to your cookie tray.
Perfect for Special Occasions
These cookies make a statement at holiday parties, family gatherings, or any special occasion. They’re also fantastic for gifting, whether you’re wrapping them in a tin for a friend or sharing them as a homemade holiday treat. The unique white chocolate filling adds a touch of luxury, making them feel extra special.
Ingredients Needed for Red Velvet Snowball Cookies with White Chocolate Filling
Before you start baking, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. Fortunately, you likely have most of these items in your pantry already!
Basic Ingredients for the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp red velvet cake mix or red food coloring
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips
Ingredients for the White Chocolate Filling
- 3/4 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate bar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Table: Ingredients for Red Velvet Snowball Cookies with White Chocolate Filling
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1 cup (softened) |
| Powdered Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| Cocoa Powder | 1 tbsp |
| Red Velvet Cake Mix (or Red Dye) | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp |
| White Chocolate (for filling) | 3/4 cup |
| Heavy Cream | 1/4 cup |
How to Make Red Velvet Snowball Cookies with White Chocolate Filling
Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to dive into the process of making these delicious cookies.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cookie Dough
- Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and red velvet cake mix (or red food coloring). Stir them together until everything is well-mixed.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
- Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Stir until a dough forms, making sure there are no dry spots left.
- Shape the Dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. These cookies won’t spread much, so you can place them a little closer together.
How to Make the White Chocolate Filling
- Melt White Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, place the white chocolate and heavy cream. Heat the mixture over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted. Let it cool slightly before using.
- Stuff the Cookies: Once the dough balls are ready, gently press your thumb into the center of each one to create a small well. Spoon a small amount of the white chocolate mixture into the well and then seal the dough around it, ensuring the filling is completely encased.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar: Roll each filled cookie in powdered sugar before baking. This will give them their iconic “snowball” look.
- Bake: Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. They should look set but still soft to the touch. Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Tips for Making Perfect Red Velvet Snowball Cookies
Ensure a Soft, Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture
- Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter helps create a light, airy texture. Don’t rush this step.
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies should remain soft and slightly chewy inside. Overbaking will result in a dry cookie.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents them from spreading too much.
Customize the Recipe
Feel free to add your personal touch to these cookies:
- Add-ins: Consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
- Flavor Variations: Try adding a hint of almond extract or swap out the white chocolate filling for dark chocolate or caramel.
Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips
How to Serve These Cookies
- Serve them as part of a holiday dessert platter or give them as gifts in decorative tins.
- Pair them with a hot beverage, like cocoa or tea, for an extra cozy touch.
Storing Leftover Cookies
- At Room Temperature: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Velvet Snowball Cookies
How do I prevent the white chocolate from melting out of the cookie?
To keep the white chocolate filling intact, ensure that the dough is well-chilled before baking. Also, let the white chocolate mixture cool slightly before adding it to the dough.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cookies a day or two in advance. If you want to prep even earlier, you can freeze the dough and bake the cookies fresh when needed.
Can I substitute the white chocolate with dark chocolate or another filling?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different fillings! Dark chocolate or even caramel could be excellent substitutes if you want a richer, deeper flavor.
Conclusion
Red Velvet Snowball Cookies with White Chocolate Filling are a true holiday treat that will add a touch of elegance to your baking repertoire. Whether you’re making them for a festive occasion or gifting them to loved ones, they’re sure to impress with their striking color, delicious flavor, and creamy filling. Follow the steps outlined in this article, and you’ll have these delightful cookies ready in no time. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, start baking, and enjoy these irresistible cookies this holiday season!