These Cinnamon Snowball Cookies are melt-in-your-mouth buttery treats with a cozy, spiced twist. If you’ve ever had classic snowball cookies (sometimes called Mexican wedding cookies or Russian tea cakes), you already know how irresistible they are — but this version takes things up a notch with warm cinnamon both inside and out.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday cookie exchange, whipping up a batch for a cozy afternoon treat, or just love the nostalgic charm of a sugar-dusted cookie, these are a must-try. They’re simple, quick to prepare, and utterly delicious — especially when rolled in that final layer of cinnamon-sugar “snow.”

Cinnamon Snowball Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Buttery and tender – These cookies are soft, crumbly, and practically dissolve on your tongue.
Infused with cinnamon – Warm spice adds depth and a seasonal feel to the classic cookie.
Great for gifting – They stay fresh and hold their shape well, making them perfect for cookie tins or holiday platters.
Simple ingredients – Nothing fancy here — just pantry basics.
Optional nuts – You can make them with or without for different textures.

Tip: You can find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Ingredients

Unsalted butter
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Ground cinnamon
Salt
Finely chopped nuts (optional)
Extra cinnamon and powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Add Nuts (Optional): Gently fold in the chopped nuts if using.
Shape and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop 1-inch balls of dough and place them about 1 inch apart on the sheet.
Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the bottoms are just golden brown.
Roll in Cinnamon Sugar: While the cookies are still warm, roll them gently in a mixture of powdered sugar and cinnamon. Let them cool, then roll again for a snowy finish.

Variations

Nut-free version: Simply skip the nuts — the texture stays buttery and delicate.
Add a citrus twist: Add a bit of orange zest to the dough for a holiday-inspired variation.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth.
Chocolate chip snowballs: Mix in mini chocolate chips instead of nuts for a sweet surprise.

Heating and Storage

Storage:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. They’re actually better the next day!

Freezing:

Freeze baked cookies in a sealed container or zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and re-roll in powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Reheating:

These cookies are best at room temperature, but if you’d like them warm, heat in a low oven (250°F / 120°C) for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, just reduce or omit the added salt to avoid over-salting.

Do I have to use nuts?

Not at all. The nuts add a nice crunch but are totally optional. The cookies are still delicious without them.

What kind of nuts work best?

Pecans and walnuts are classic, but almonds or hazelnuts also work beautifully when finely chopped.

Can I make these gluten-free?

You can try using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Texture may vary slightly, but they should still hold together well.

Why roll them in powdered sugar twice?

The first roll coats the warm cookies and helps the sugar stick, while the second adds a thick, festive “snowy” coating once they cool.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can chill the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before shaping.

What’s the best way to get even-sized cookies?

Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough evenly before rolling into balls.

Are these cookies supposed to be soft?

They’re meant to be tender and crumbly, not chewy. They should almost melt in your mouth.

How long do they stay fresh?

About a week at room temperature in an airtight container, or 2 months in the freezer.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Use a plant-based butter substitute — just make sure it’s one that stays solid at room temperature.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Snowball Cookies are the kind of classic recipe that never goes out of style — but with a warm, spiced twist that makes them even more crave-worthy. They’re perfect for holidays, gifting, or simply treating yourself to something cozy. With their buttery texture and sweet, cinnamon-dusted finish, don’t be surprised if these disappear fast!