Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are simple to make with classic pantry ingredients and no complicated steps. They have a soft, crumbly texture and a lightly sweet flavor that isn’t overpowering. Their festive look makes them perfect for cookie trays, gifting, and special occasions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
unsalted butter
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
all-purpose flour
cornstarch
salt
additional powdered sugar for coating
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
Scoop small portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops remain pale. Allow the cookies to cool slightly, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. Once completely cooled, roll them again for a thicker coating.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 30 cookies.
Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a baking time of 12 to 15 minutes per batch. Total time is around 30 minutes.
Variations
You can add finely chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra texture. Lemon zest or almond extract adds a subtle flavor twist. For a festive version, mix a small amount of cocoa powder into the dough.
Storage/Reheating
Store Snowdrop Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They also freeze well for up to 2 months. Reheating is not recommended, as it can affect their delicate texture.
FAQs
What are Snowdrop Cookies?
They are soft, buttery cookies coated in powdered sugar, similar to snowball or wedding cookies.
Do these cookies spread while baking?
They spread very little, keeping their rounded shape.
Why are my cookies dry?
Overbaking or adding too much flour can make them dry.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
Are these cookies very sweet?
They are lightly sweet with most sweetness coming from the powdered sugar coating.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
Should I roll them in sugar twice?
Yes, rolling twice gives the best snowy appearance.
Can kids help make these cookies?
Yes, rolling the dough balls and coating them in sugar is kid-friendly.
Why did my powdered sugar melt?
The cookies may have been too hot or stored in a humid environment.
Can I add chocolate?
Yes, mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate work well.
Conclusion
Snowdrop Cookies are a timeless, elegant treat that combines simplicity with irresistible texture and flavor. With their soft crumb and snowy finish, they’re perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying with a warm drink on a cozy day.
PrintSnowdrop Cookies
Tender, buttery cookies coated in powdered sugar, known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and snowy appearance, perfect for holidays or anytime treats.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for coating
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Scoop small portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden but tops remain pale.
- While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar. Once cooled completely, roll them again for a thicker coating.
Notes
- Refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours if making ahead.
- Rolling twice in powdered sugar ensures the classic snowy appearance.
- Add finely chopped nuts, lemon zest, or almond extract for variation.
- Store in a cool, dry place to maintain crisp texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
