Red Velvet Snowball Cookies are the perfect marriage between two beloved desserts: classic powdered sugar–coated snowball cookies and rich, cocoa-kissed red velvet cake. These cookies are buttery, tender, and delicately crumbly, with a dramatic red interior hidden beneath a snowy coating of powdered sugar. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, preparing a dessert platter for guests, or simply craving something indulgent and cozy, these cookies deliver both beauty and flavor in every bite.

Snowball cookies—also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies—have been a staple in American baking for generations. Traditionally made with butter, flour, nuts, and powdered sugar, they’re known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture. This red velvet version keeps the soft, buttery base while adding cocoa powder, vanilla, and that iconic red hue for a modern, festive upgrade.

What makes Red Velvet Snowball Cookies especially irresistible is their balance. They’re not overly sweet, despite the powdered sugar coating. Instead, you’ll taste a gentle cocoa flavor, rich butteriness, and a subtle tang that pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk. Their appearance alone makes them ideal for Christmas cookie boxes, Valentine’s Day desserts, or winter gatherings—but they’re just as delightful year-round.

Why You’ll Love These Red Velvet Snowball Cookies

These cookies check all the boxes for home bakers of any level. They’re simple to prepare, don’t require rolling pins or cutters, and hold their shape beautifully while baking. Even better, they store well and can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for busy holiday schedules.

Here’s why they deserve a spot in your recipe collection:

Soft, tender texture that melts in your mouth
Striking red velvet color perfect for festive occasions
Classic snowball cookie charm with a modern twist
Easy ingredients you likely already have on hand
Great for gifting, parties, and dessert tables

Ingredients for Red Velvet Snowball Cookies

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and color. Each component plays an important role in creating the perfect cookie.

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter, softened
Granulated sugar
Powdered sugar (for rolling)
Egg
Vanilla extract
Red food coloring (gel preferred for vibrant color)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Mix the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
Cream the butter and sugar. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a tender texture.
Add wet ingredients. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Mix in the red food coloring until the dough reaches a deep red velvet color.
Combine wet and dry. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
Shape the cookies. Scoop out small portions of dough and roll into smooth balls about 1 inch in diameter.
Bake. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, just until set. The cookies should not brown.
Cool slightly. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Roll in powdered sugar. While cookies are still warm, gently roll them in powdered sugar. Let cool completely, then roll again for a thick, snowy coating.
Serve or store. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container.

Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies Every Time

Use gel food coloring for the most vibrant red without altering dough consistency.
Don’t overbake. Snowball cookies should remain pale on the outside to preserve their soft texture.
Double roll in powdered sugar. Rolling once while warm and again when cool creates that iconic snowy finish.
Chill the dough if needed. If your kitchen is warm, chilling the dough for 20 minutes helps maintain shape.

Fun Variations to Try

One of the best things about Red Velvet Snowball Cookies is how adaptable they are:

Cream Cheese Snowballs: Add a small amount of softened cream cheese to the dough for extra richness.
Chocolate Chip Red Velvet Snowballs: Fold in mini white or dark chocolate chips.
Peppermint Holiday Version: Add a drop of peppermint extract for a festive twist.
Valentine’s Day Style: Shape slightly smaller cookies and dust with pink-tinted powdered sugar.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies on a white platter for contrast, or pair them with other holiday cookies like gingerbread, sugar cookies, or chocolate crinkles. They’re excellent alongside:

Hot cocoa or coffee
Afternoon tea
Holiday dessert boards
Gift boxes lined with parchment paper

Their bold red center makes them a standout on any dessert table.

Cultural & Holiday Context

Red velvet desserts have long been associated with celebrations and special occasions in American baking. From red velvet cake to cupcakes and brownies, the color alone signals festivity and indulgence. By combining red velvet flavor with the nostalgic snowball cookie, this recipe bridges tradition and modern flair—making it perfect for Christmas, winter gatherings, and romantic holidays like Valentine’s Day.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Red Velvet Snowball Cookies store exceptionally well:

Room temperature: Up to 5 days in an airtight container
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies (without powdered sugar) for up to 2 months. Thaw and roll in sugar before serving
Make-ahead dough: Dough can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours before baking

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cookie that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, Red Velvet Snowball Cookies are the answer. Their soft texture, subtle cocoa flavor, and snowy powdered sugar coating make them unforgettable. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or treating yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.