Brown Butter Snowball Cookies

Brown Butter Snowball Cookies are a delicious and delightful treat that anyone can enjoy. These cookies not only deliver a fantastic flavor but also offer a lighter option that fits within various dietary preferences. With healthy ingredients and a simple preparation method, these cookies are among the best choices for your next dessert. The nutty flavor of brown butter combined with the crumbly texture makes these cookies irresistible. If you’re looking for a healthy version that is great for meal prep and can even accommodate gluten-free diets, this recipe has got you covered!

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS Brown Butter Snowball Cookies

Brown Butter Snowball Cookies are a fantastic treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while being a healthier alternative to traditional cookies. They are perfect for weight loss enthusiasts, thanks to their lighter ingredients. This cookie recipe is also diabetic-friendly when consumed in moderation. The blend of almond flour and cake flour provides a unique texture while keeping the calorie count low. Plus, these cookies are easy to prepare, making them an ideal candidate for meal prep. When you make these cookies, you can enjoy a high-protein snack or dessert without feeling guilty.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Equipment 1: Mixing Bowl

A mixing bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients for your cookies. A medium-sized bowl works well to mix the butter and sugars thoroughly.

Equipment 2: Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer

Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer saves time and ensures that your cookie dough becomes creamy and well-combined. They can help you achieve the perfect consistency.

Equipment 3: Baking Tray

A baking tray is necessary for placing your cookies before baking. Make sure to use a non-stick baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Equipment 4: Plastic Wrap

You will need plastic wrap to wrap your cookie dough before chilling. This step is crucial as it helps the dough develop the correct texture while being refrigerated.

INGREDIENTS

Ingredient 1: Unsalted Butter

1/4 cup + 1 tsp (50 g) unsalted butter, cooled and softened (room temperature)
Unsalted butter is the star of this recipe, giving the cookies their rich flavor. Browned butter adds a nutty depth that enhances the overall taste while keeping the calories lower than creamier alternatives.

Ingredient 2: Powdered Sugar

2 tbsp + 2 tsp (20 g) powdered sugar
This ingredient provides sweetness and a tender texture to the cookies. The use of powdered sugar helps create a light structure, perfect for these snowball cookies.

Ingredient 3: Cake Flour

1/2 cup +1 tbsp (70 g) cake flour
Though cake flour is typically higher in carbs, it contributes to the light and airy texture of the cookies while still allowing for a healthy version of a classic treat.

Ingredient 4: Super Fine Almond Flour

1/4 cup (25 g) super fine almond flour
Almond flour is a fantastic gluten-free alternative. It not only adds healthy fats and protein but also aids in reducing the overall carb content, making these cookies heart-healthy.

Ingredient 5: Heavy Cream (optional)

1-2 tsp (5-10 ml) heavy cream, only if needed
Heavy cream gives the cookie dough a smoother texture. For a lower-calorie version, you can skip this if the dough consistency is satisfactory.

Ingredient 6: Vanilla Extract

1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Vanilla extract adds a warm flavor to your cookies. It complements the brown butter, making each bite feel like a decadent treat without added sugars.

this Recipe

HOW TO MAKE Brown Butter Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter

Begin by placing the cooled brown butter in a medium bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat on low to medium-low speed for 30–60 seconds until the butter is soft and smooth. This step is essential for creating a creamy base for your cookies.

Step 2: Mix in Sugar

Next, add the powdered sugar into the bowl. On medium speed, beat the mixture for 1–2 minutes until it becomes creamy and fully combined. This incorporates air into the dough, allowing your cookies to rise nicely when baked.

Step 3: Combine Cream and Vanilla

Now, mix in the heavy cream (start with 1 tsp and add more if needed) and vanilla extract until everything blends seamlessly. The mixture should be soft but not runny – aim for a smooth consistency.

Step 4: Add Flours

Add the cake flour, almond flour, and a pinch of salt to the dough. Mix on low speed for just a few seconds before increasing to medium speed. Continue to mix until the dough looks crumbly but holds together when pinched. This combination of flours helps keep the cookies lower in carbohydrates while adding a unique flavor profile.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Gather the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough is vital because it helps the cookies hold their shape during baking and prevents a crumbly, powdery texture.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven about 20 minutes before baking. For convection ovens, set the temperature to 160 °C (320 °F); for conventional ovens, set to 170 °C (340 °F). Preheating is critical for even cooking.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

After chilling, divide the dough into 12 equal pieces (about 14 g each). Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them on the prepared baking tray, leaving some space between each cookie.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale to maintain that soft texture. Be careful not to overbake; otherwise, they might become dry.

Step 9: Cool and Dust with Sugar

Let the cookies cool on the tray for 5–10 minutes. While they are still warm (but not hot), dust them with powdered sugar. For an extra "snowy" effect, add a second dusting once they’ve fully cooled. Enjoy the delightful visuals along with the taste!

TIPS AND TRICKS

• Healthy Modifications: For even healthier cookies, consider using a sugar substitute that can withstand baking. This can lower the overall sugar and calorie content.

• Meal Prep Friendly: These cookies can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a week or frozen for up to three months. Just remember to refrigerate them after baking if you want to keep the texture intact.

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can keep them in the fridge for even longer freshness.

• Variations: Feel free to mix in nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor. However, remember that adding extras can increase the calorie count, so use them sparingly if looking for a lighter option.

Brown Butter Snowball Cookies FAQ

Q1: How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can make these cookies gluten-free by ensuring that the cake flour used is certified gluten-free and using only almond flour.

Q2: Can I store these cookies for later?

Yes! You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

Q3: Are these cookies low in calories?

Yes, these Brown Butter Snowball Cookies can be made lower in calories by using less sugar or low-calorie sugar substitutes. Almond flour also contributes to keeping calories down while adding healthy fats.

Q4: How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be lightly golden on the bottom, while the tops remain pale. If you see a slight golden edge but the tops are not browned, they are likely perfectly baked!

CONCLUSION

Brown Butter Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that is both tasty and somewhat healthy. With the nutty richness of brown butter and the combination of cake and almond flour, these cookies provide a fantastic taste without compromising dietary needs. Perfect for meal prep, these cookies can be enjoyed as a high-protein snack or dessert up to a week after baking. With the added health benefits and versatility, these cookies are sure to become a favorite! We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience or any variations you’ve attempted. Your journey toward healthier treats can begin today with these delectable cookies!

Brown Butter Snowball Cookies

These delicious Brown Butter Snowball Cookies combine nutty flavors and a crumbly texture, making them a healthy yet delightful treat suitable for various dietary preferences.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 12 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 90

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Cookie Dough

• 1/4 cup 1/4 cup + 1 tsp (50 g) unsalted butter, cooled and softened Unsalted butter adds rich flavor; browned butter enhances the taste.
• 2 tbsp 2 tbsp + 2 tsp (20 g) powdered sugar Provides sweetness and a tender texture.
• 1/2 cup 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp (70 g) cake flour Contributes to a light and airy texture.
• 1/4 cup 1/4 cup (25 g) super fine almond flour Gluten-free alternative adding healthy fats and protein.
• 1-2 tsp 1-2 tsp (5-10 ml) heavy cream, only if needed Gives a smoother texture to the dough.
• 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp vanilla extract Enhances flavor.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Begin by placing the cooled brown butter in a medium bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat on low to medium-low speed for 30–60 seconds until the butter is soft and smooth.
2. Add the powdered sugar into the bowl. Beat on medium speed for 1–2 minutes until creamy and fully combined.
3. Mix in the heavy cream (start with 1 tsp and add more if needed) and vanilla extract until everything is blended seamlessly.
4. Add the cake flour, almond flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix on low speed for just a few seconds before increasing to medium speed.
5. Gather the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Baking

1. Preheat your oven about 20 minutes before baking (set to 160 °C for convection ovens; 170 °C for conventional ovens).
2. After chilling, divide the dough into 12 equal pieces (about 14 g each). Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a prepared baking tray.
3. Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
4. Let the cookies cool on the tray for 5–10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar while still warm for a snowy effect.

Notes

For healthy modifications, consider using a sugar substitute. These cookies can be meal prepped and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a week or frozen for longer storage. Feel free to mix in nuts or chocolate chips for variation.