Slow Cooker Snowballs

Slow Cooker Snowballs are one of those magical holiday treats that bring warmth and sweetness to every gathering. They are soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookie balls made effortlessly in a slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy classic “snowball” flavor with minimal effort. Instead of baking in the oven, these buttery coconut-coated treats cook gently and evenly in the slow cooker, giving you perfect texture and authentic homemade charm.

This recipe is ideal for busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. From Christmas parties to family gatherings or simply enjoying a sweet bite on a cold winter evening, these Slow Cooker Snowballs are irresistible. Their tender crumb, rich buttery taste, and snowy powdered-sugar finish make them a holiday favorite. In this blog, you’ll learn everything: detailed ingredients, the role of each component, step-by-step instructions, professional tips, FAQs, and all the information you need to make this recipe flawless every time.

What Are Slow Cooker Snowballs?

Traditional snowball cookies are small, buttery, crumbly cookies rolled in powdered sugar to give them a snowy appearance. The slow cooker method adds a unique twist: it offers gentler cooking, prevents over-browning, and creates an incredibly soft texture. If your oven is busy with other holiday dishes or you simply prefer a hands-off approach, this method becomes a game-changer.

These cookies require no browning and no time in front of the oven. Just mix, shape, place in the slow cooker, and let magic happen. The result is a cookie that tastes rich like shortbread but soft like a truffle. Perfect for holiday dessert platters, gifting, or indulging anytime.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Snowballs

Below is the complete list of ingredients you need to make perfect Slow Cooker Snowballs, along with an explanation of what each ingredient contributes to the final texture and flavor.

Butter

Butter is the backbone of snowball cookies. It adds richness, moisture, and the signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. Using softened butter ensures the dough blends smoothly and evenly.

Powdered Sugar

Powdered sugar is used both inside the dough and for coating the cookies. Inside the dough, it creates a delicate, fine texture. On the outside, it gives the cookies their snow-covered look.

Vanilla Extract

Vanilla enhances the flavor profile, adding warmth and a subtle sweetness that complements the buttery base. Even a small amount brings depth to the cookies.

All-Purpose Flour

Flour provides structure to the cookies. Since snowballs are supposed to be soft and crumbly, the ratio is balanced to give structure without making the cookie dense.

Cornstarch

Cornstarch is essential for creating a soft and tender texture. It helps prevent toughness and contributes to the classic “snowball melt” when you bite into the cookie.

Salt

A small amount of salt balances sweetness, enhances the buttery flavor, and makes the cookies taste rounded and well-developed.

Chopped Nuts (Optional)

Some traditional recipes include pecans, walnuts, or almonds. Nuts add a slight crunch and nutty depth. They’re optional, but they do add a wonderful layer of flavor.

Shredded Coconut (Optional)

Coconut gives additional softness and aroma, perfect for those who love a tropical twist. Though optional, it makes the snowballs extra delightful.

How to Make Slow Cooker Snowballs

This step-by-step guide ensures your snowballs come out tender, perfectly shaped, and beautifully coated in powdered sugar. Follow each step carefully for the best results.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by beating the softened butter until creamy and smooth. Add powdered sugar and continue mixing until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, creating a soft texture.

Next, mix in the vanilla extract. Slowly add flour, cornstarch, and salt. Combine until a soft dough forms. If you’re using nuts or shredded coconut, fold them in gently at this stage.

Step 2: Shape the Snowballs

Take small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls using your hands. Make sure they are evenly sized so they cook uniformly.

Step 3: Set Up the Slow Cooker

Line the bottom of your slow cooker with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the cookie balls in a single layer, leaving slight space between them. You can stack layers by placing parchment paper between each level.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Snowballs

Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure the bottoms do not brown. The cookies should remain pale and soft.

Step 5: Cool and Roll in Powdered Sugar

Once cooked, carefully remove the cookies and let them cool slightly. When still warm, roll them in powdered sugar. After they cool completely, roll them again for a thicker, snowy coating.

Why These Slow Cooker Snowballs Are Loved

These cookies are adored for many reasons. First, they require minimal effort, making them perfect for busy seasons. Second, the slow cooker creates a unique, tender texture that oven-baked versions sometimes lack. They also stay pale and snowy, making them visually beautiful for holiday displays.

Additionally, Slow Cooker Snowballs are incredibly versatile. You can customize them with nuts, coconut, different extracts, or even citrus zest. Their soft, buttery flavor appeals to almost everyone, from children to adults. They also store well and make excellent holiday gifts.

Pro Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Snowballs

Here are professional tips to help you achieve flawless cookies every time:

Use room-temperature butter: This ensures the dough blends correctly and creates the perfect texture.

Do not overmix the dough: Overmixing can develop too much gluten, making the cookies tough. Mix only until combined.

Keep the slow cooker on LOW: Cooking on HIGH can cause the bottom of the cookies to burn or brown.

Use parchment paper: It prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.

Let the cookies cool before the final sugar coat: This helps the powdered sugar stick properly and creates a clean, snowy look.

Add a second powdered-sugar coating: This enhances the snowy appearance and improves overall flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies pair beautifully with hot chocolate, coffee, tea, or spiced holiday drinks. They look stunning on Christmas dessert tables, cookie platters, or holiday gift boxes. You can also package them individually in cellophane bags tied with ribbons for gifting.

Storage Instructions

Slow Cooker Snowballs store wonderfully. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. If frozen, thaw and coat lightly with powdered sugar again before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes, mini chocolate chips can be added for extra sweetness and flavor. Just fold them into the dough before shaping the snowballs.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and cooking.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

You can bake them in the oven at low temperature (around 300°F/150°C) for about 12–15 minutes. But the slow cooker version delivers a softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Snowballs are a delightful, easy, and festive treat perfect for holidays or any time you crave something buttery and sweet. Their simplicity makes them accessible to anyone, while their flavor and texture make them truly special. With minimal preparation, a handful of ingredients, and gentle slow-cooking heat, you can create a dessert that looks beautiful, tastes incredible, and brings joy to every bite.

Whether you’re preparing holiday platters, gifting homemade treats, or simply enjoying a cozy dessert, these Slow Cooker Snowballs will become a cherished recipe in your collection.