Name: Snowman Cookies That Will Melt Hearts This Holiday Season
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 164 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup Unsalted Butter (Adds richness and moisture; can use salted butter); 1/2 cup Full-Fat Cream Cheese (Provides a creamy texture; substitute with mascarpone); 1.5 cups Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the cookies; can use coconut sugar); 1 large Egg (Binds the dough; replace with a flax egg for vegan version); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor; substitute with almond extract); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (Gives structure; use gluten-free blend if needed); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Softens texture; can be omitted); 1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder (Leavening agent; ensure it's fresh); 1/2 teaspoon Fine Salt (Balances sweetness; omit if using salted butter); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Smooths frosting; can use substitutions as above); 3.5 cups Powdered Sugar (Sweetens and thickens frosting; sugar alternative can be used); 1/4 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (Adds creaminess; can use half-and-half); Orange Gel Food Coloring (For decoration; cocoa powder can be natural alternative); 1 cup Coarse Sanding Sugar (Provides a decorative finish; can use granulated sugar); Round Black Sprinkles (Perfect for facial features; mini chocolate chips work too)

As I scoured my pantry for ingredients, a quick glance out the window revealed a soft blanket of snow covering the ground—just in time for holiday baking! These adorable snowman cookies are the perfect way to bring the festive spirit into your kitchen. Soft and chewy, they come adorned with creamy buttercream frosting and a playful dusting of sanding sugar, evoking joy in both young and old. Plus, their quick preparation makes them an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings or cookie decorating parties. With their charming design, these snowman cookies are not just a treat but also a delightful way to share love and happiness during the holidays. So, who’s ready to create some snowy magic?

Why are Snowman Cookies a Must-Bake?

Festive Charm: These adorable snowman cookies bring a touch of winter wonder to your holiday baking.

Easy to Make: With a simple list of ingredients, anyone can whip up these treats—perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike!

Kid-Friendly Fun: The playful decoration invites kids to join in, making baking a memorable family activity.

Impressive Flavor: Soft and chewy, these cookies melt in your mouth, enhanced with creamy buttercream frosting that’s sure to delight everyone.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a cookie exchange or a festive party, these snowman cookies will be the star of the show—just like those delightful Brown Butter Cookies you love!

Versatile Treats: Feel free to switch up the decorations for different holidays, ensuring this recipe shines all year round!

Snowman Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter (3/4 cup) – Adds richness and moisture; you can use salted butter but reduce additional salt if unavailable.
• Full-Fat Cream Cheese (1/2 cup) – Provides a creamy texture and balances sweetness; substitute with mascarpone for a similar creaminess.
• Granulated Sugar (1 1/2 cups) – Sweetens the cookies and helps with browning; can use coconut sugar for a different flavor.
• Large Egg (1) – Binds the dough; replace with a flax egg (1 Tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 Tbsp water) for a vegan version.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp) – Enhances flavor; substitute with almond extract for a unique twist.
• All-Purpose Flour (3 cups) – Gives structure; use a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
• Cornstarch (1 Tbsp) – Softens texture; can be omitted if desired.
• Baking Powder (1/2 tsp) – Leavening agent for light cookies; ensure it is fresh for best results.
• Fine Salt (1/2 tsp) – Balances sweetness; omit if using salted butter.

For the Buttercream Frosting
• Unsalted Butter (1 cup) – Smooths frosting; the same substitution options as above apply for dietary needs.
• Powdered Sugar (3 1/2 cups) – Sweetens and thickens frosting; use a sugar alternative for a lower-calorie option.
• Heavy Whipping Cream (1/4 cup) – Adds creaminess to frosting; you can use half-and-half as a substitute.
• Orange Gel Food Coloring – For decoration; cocoa powder can be used for a natural color alternative.

For Decoration
• Coarse Sanding Sugar (1 cup) – Provides a decorative finish; granulated sugar can be used as a substitute.
• Round Black Sprinkles – Perfect for facial features; mini chocolate chips or colored frosting also work wonderfully.

Get ready to assemble these delightful snowman cookies that will melt hearts this holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Snowman Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Begin by creaming 3/4 cup of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of full-fat cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add in 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar along with 1 large egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing until all the ingredients are well combined and creamy.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt until uniform. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this will keep your snowman cookies soft and chewy.

Step 3: Chill the Dough
Once your dough is combined, divide it into two equal halves and wrap each half tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to chill, or pop it into the freezer for a quicker 30-minute chill. This step is crucial for easy rolling later on.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven
After the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, cover your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking, allowing for easy removal of the baked cookies once they’re ready.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
Sprinkle your working surface with a little flour to prevent sticking, then remove one half of the chilled dough from the fridge. Roll it out to about 1/3 inch thick with a rolling pin. Use round cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes for your snowman cookies, pressing firmly to get clean edges.

Step 6: Chill Cutouts
Once you have your shapes, transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Chill the cutouts in the refrigerator for an additional 15 minutes, or place them in the freezer for 5 minutes. This will help them maintain their shape while baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Carefully place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are just set but the centers appear slightly soft. Watch closely to avoid browning. Once done, cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Buttercream Frosting
In a large bowl, beat 1 cup of unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add in 3 1/2 cups of powdered sugar, along with 1/4 cup of heavy whipping cream and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency; it should be smooth and light in texture.

Step 9: Decorate Your Snowman Cookies
With your cooled snowman cookies ready, spread a generous layer of buttercream frosting on top of each cookie. For a festive touch, dip the frosted cookies into 1 cup of coarse sanding sugar to give a glistening effect. Add round black sprinkles to create adorable facial features before serving.

Expert Tips for Snowman Cookies

Creaming Technique: Ensure you cream your butter and cream cheese well for an airy texture, which is key to soft snowman cookies.

Dough Handling: Avoid overworking the dough to maintain its softness; mix until just combined for the best results.

Consistent Thickness: Roll your dough to an even thickness (about 1/3 inch) to ensure all cookies bake evenly and maintain their shape.

Baking Time Check: Keep a close eye on your cookies and remove them from the oven when the edges are set, allowing for a soft center.

Chilling Your Cookies: Don’t skip chilling your cutouts before baking; this will help preserve their adorable snowman shape during baking.

Decorating Creativity: Feel free to customize your snowman cookies with different decorations or holiday-themed toppings for a personal touch!

Make Ahead Options

These snowman cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to enjoy holiday baking without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap; refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Additionally, you can roll and cut out the cookies, then chill the cutouts in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. When ready to serve, just bake them straight from the fridge, following the baking instructions, and finish with the buttercream frosting and festive decorations. This way, you’ll have delicious snowman cookies ready to spread cheer with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Snowman Cookies

Imagine the warmth of your cozy kitchen filled with laughter as you savor sweet treats alongside festive delights.

Hot Chocolate Bar: Create a customizable hot chocolate station with marshmallows, whipped cream, and festive sprinkles that pairs perfectly with the cookies.
Gingerbread Men: Though similar in spirit, these spiced cookies bring a different flavor dimension, enhancing the holiday spread with nostalgic charm. The contrast of flavors makes them a delightful addition to any festive platter.
Christmas Fruitcake: The rich, fruity layers of a classic fruitcake create a balance to the sweet snowman cookies, making for a traditional holiday pairing that speaks of celebration and joy.
Milk or Plant-Based Milk: A classic choice for cookies, a glass of chilled milk complements the sweetness of the frosting, soothing each bite and enhancing the soft texture of the snowman cookies.
Peppermint Bark: The cool, minty flavors of peppermint bark provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies. This delightful treat adds a splash of color to your dessert spread, making it visually appealing.
Assorted Nuts: An assortment of roasted nuts adds a crunchy texture and savory flavor, rounding out the sweet experience while offering a healthy snack option after indulging in cookies.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm up with a cup of aromatic spiced apple cider, the warm spices enhancing the flavors of the cookies while providing a comforting beverage to sip on during chilly gatherings.
Sugar Cookies: Adorned simply with sugar sprinkles, these sugar cookies complement the snowman cookies beautifully while offering a different aesthetic to the dessert table.

How to Store and Freeze Snowman Cookies

Room Temperature: Store frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and delicious.

Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to seal them well to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze snowman cookies before frosting for up to one month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag to keep them fresh.

Reheating: To enjoy them after freezing, thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or warm them lightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked feel.

Snowman Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to put your unique spin on these delightful snowman cookies, making them even more exciting and personalized!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter and cream cheese with vegan butter and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a delicious dairy-free option.
Vegan: For a fully vegan cookie, replace the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based heavy cream for the frosting.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour, ensuring everyone can enjoy the magic of these cookies!
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for a festive winter twist that pairs perfectly with the creamy frosting.
Decorative Swaps: Instead of sanding sugar, try edible glitter or seasonal-themed sprinkles to make your cookies pop for various holidays.
Chocolaty Delight: Incorporate cocoa powder into the cookie dough for a chocolatey snowman twist that pairs beautifully with the buttercream frosting.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for added texture and flavor—chocolate chips can be particularly festive!
Zesty Touch: Mix in the zest of an orange or lemon into the dough for a fresh citrus flavor that brightens up the seasonal sweetness.

As you experiment with these variations, you might discover a favorite combo that captures the essence of your holiday spirit, just like the joy of Honey Cookies Chewy or the indulgence of Brownie Cookie Cookies.

Snowman Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for my Snowman Cookies?
Absolutely! Use unsalted butter for a creamy base, and fresh cream cheese to ensure the best texture. When selecting flour, check for its freshness and use all-purpose flour unless you need a gluten-free alternative. For sugar, granulated sugar is ideal, but feel free to swap with coconut sugar for a unique flavor. Always look for smooth and unblemished fruits or decorations for the best presentation!

What is the best way to store my Snowman Cookies?
Very! Store your frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To prolong their lifespan, they can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Just make sure they’re well-sealed; you don’t want them to dry out!

Can I freeze my Snowman Cookies?
Absolutely! For best results, it’s ideal to freeze the cookies before frosting. Wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag; they will last for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours or pop them in the microwave on low for 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked taste!

What should I do if my Snowman Cookies turn out too soft or too hard?
No worries! If your cookies are too soft, it may mean that your butter was too warm when you mixed the dough; next time, be sure to cream your butter and cream cheese just enough until fluffy. If they’re too hard, it could be overbaking; keep an eye on them in the final minutes and remove them as soon as the edges are set. Rolling your dough evenly and not overworking it also helps maintain that desired soft, chewy texture.

Are Snowman Cookies safe for kids with allergies?
Indeed! Be cautious, as these cookies contain common allergens like dairy, gluten, and eggs. For a kid-friendly version, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 Tbsp of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 Tbsp of water) for a vegan alternative. Always read labels carefully on all ingredient packages to ensure they’re allergy-friendly.

How long can I keep my Snowman Cookies in the fridge?
Very! In the refrigerator, your cookies can stay fresh for up to 4 days. Store them in an airtight container, ensuring that they are well sealed to remain moist and delicious. If you notice them drying out, consider wrapping them in plastic wrap before placing them in their container!