These vibrant green snowball cookies bring a playful touch to the holiday season, inspired by the iconic Grinch. Buttery, nutty, and coated in powdered sugar, they’re a simple yet irresistible treat that captures the spirit of sharing and joy. This recipe delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture and festive appearance, making them a delightful addition to any holiday gathering.
Why These Cookies Matter
The Grinch’s story is about transformation – a character whose heart grows through connection and kindness. These cookies echo that message. They’re not just visually appealing; they symbolize a lighthearted reminder of the season’s true meaning. Beyond the story connection, snowball cookies themselves are a classic for a reason: their delicate crumb and sweetness make them universally loved.
Key Ingredients and What They Do
The success of these cookies lies in a few key ingredients:
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the base structure, ensuring a tender bite.
- Roasted Pistachios: Add depth of flavor and a subtle green hue, enhancing the festive look.
- Softened Butter: Creams smoothly with powdered sugar for that signature crumbly texture.
- Powdered Sugar: Used in both the dough and coating, creating the “snowy” look and delicate texture.
- Green Food Coloring: Gel food coloring works best for a vibrant color without affecting dough consistency.
- Red Heart Sprinkles: The perfect finishing touch, referencing the Grinch’s heart growing three sizes.
Making the Magic Happen: Step-by-Step
- Make the Dough: Cream together softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Gradually add flour and chopped pistachios until a soft dough forms.
- Chill and Scoop: Refrigerate briefly to firm up the dough, then roll into tablespoon-sized balls and arrange on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-16 minutes, rotating the sheets halfway through, until the edges are golden-brown.
- Coat and Decorate: While still warm, toss in powdered sugar, then cool completely and coat again. Press a red heart sprinkle onto each cookie for the final festive touch.
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, based on 14 servings)
- Calories: 292
- Fat: 17.9 g (27.5%)
- Carbs: 30.0 g (10.0%)
- Protein: 4.0 g (8.0%)
These cookies are peanut-free, soy-free, red-meat-free, alcohol-free, low-sodium, egg-free, low-potassium, shellfish-free, vegetarian, kidney-friendly, pork-free, and pescatarian.
Recipe Details
Yields: 40 (1.5-inch) cookies
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 sticks (8 ounces) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped roasted pistachios
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, divided
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 5-6 drops green gel food coloring (or 10-12 liquid)
- 42 large red heart sprinkles
Instructions:
- Combine flour and pistachios in a bowl.
- Beat butter, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until fluffy.
- Gradually add flour mixture, then green food coloring until evenly colored.
- Chill dough for 30-60 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-16 minutes, rotating sheets.
- Cool slightly, toss in powdered sugar, then cool completely and coat again.
- Press a heart sprinkle onto each cookie.
These Grinch-inspired snowball cookies are a delightful way to bring a little whimsy to the holidays. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to spread cheer with every bite.
