Starbucks’ Snowman Cookies are a seasonal delight that brings holiday cheer with every bite. These frosted, buttery sugar cookies, shaped like adorable snowmen, have become a holiday favorite among Starbucks patrons. Their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, combined with the creamy sweetness of the royal icing, makes them an irresistible treat for kids and adults alike. Perfect for gift-giving, holiday gatherings, or simply enjoying with a cozy cup of hot chocolate or coffee, these cookies bring the warmth of the season to your kitchen.

Creating these Starbucks-inspired Snowman Cookies at home is surprisingly simple, allowing you to customize them however you like. From adding fun scarves and hats to experimenting with flavors in the cookie dough, these cookies can be personalized to fit your holiday spirit. In this recipe guide, we’ll take you through the steps to make these festive cookies, share decorating tips, variations, and answer frequently asked questions. This way, you can enjoy a Starbucks-inspired treat without leaving the house!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fun and Festive: These adorable snowman cookies add charm to any holiday dessert spread and are perfect for family baking sessions.
Customizable Decoration: With royal icing and candy decorations, each snowman can have its own unique personality, making these cookies both delicious and fun to make.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The dough can be made in advance, and the cookies keep well, making them great for holiday gift-giving.
Inspired by a Beloved Classic: If you’re a fan of Starbucks’ snowman cookies, this recipe lets you recreate that festive favorite in your own kitchen.
Perfect with Coffee or Hot Cocoa: These sweet, buttery cookies pair wonderfully with your favorite holiday beverages.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Decorating Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 20 cookies
Serving Size: 1 cookie

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 220 kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 22g

Ingredients

For the Snowman Sugar Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for flavor depth)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Royal Icing

4 cups powdered sugar
3 tablespoons meringue powder
5-6 tablespoons warm water (more or less for consistency)
Food coloring (black, orange, and any other desired colors for scarves and hats)
Edible markers or gel icing (for adding details)

For Decoration

Mini chocolate chips or black sugar pearls (for eyes and buttons)
Small orange candy or edible gel for the nose
Colored sprinkles or candy pieces (for scarves or hats)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the Egg and Flavorings: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture, and beat until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the cookies tough.
Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions, flatten into discs, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the dough hold its shape when baking.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a snowman-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Gather the scraps, re-roll, and cut more shapes as needed.
Bake: Place the snowman-shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between each. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the cookies to stay soft.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Royal Icing

Mix the Icing: In a large mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder, and 5 tablespoons of warm water. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat on low until combined, then increase speed and beat until the icing holds stiff peaks, about 5 minutes. Add more water as needed, a few drops at a time, until you reach a pipeable consistency.
Divide and Color: Divide the icing into separate bowls. Leave one portion white for the snowman’s body, tint another portion black for the eyes and buttons, and use orange for the nose. Additional colors can be used for scarves and hats.
Thin the Icing for Flooding: For filling in larger areas, thin some of the white icing with a few drops of water until it reaches a flood consistency (when drizzled, it should settle back into itself within a few seconds).

Step 4: Decorate the Cookies

Outline and Flood: Using a piping bag fitted with a small round tip, outline the snowman’s body with the white icing. Let it set for a minute, then fill in (flood) the center. Use a toothpick to spread the icing and pop any air bubbles. Allow the base layer to dry before adding details.
Add Details: Use black icing for the eyes, mouth, and buttons. For the nose, use orange icing or place a small orange candy piece in the appropriate spot.
Scarf and Hat: Decorate with colored icing for scarves, hats, or earmuffs, and add any additional details like sprinkles or candy decorations. Let the icing dry completely before stacking or storing.

Ingredient Background

Butter: Provides a rich flavor and soft texture to the cookies. For best results, use unsalted butter.
Vanilla and Almond Extract: Adds warmth and a subtle sweetness, giving the cookies a delightful depth of flavor.
Meringue Powder: Essential for royal icing, meringue powder stabilizes the icing and creates a glossy, smooth finish that hardens beautifully.

Technique Tips

Chill the Dough: Chilling is essential for preventing the cookies from spreading too much and helps them maintain their snowman shape.
Consistency of Icing: Adjust the icing’s thickness depending on its use. A thicker consistency works for outlines, while a thinner consistency is ideal for flooding.
Use Edible Markers for Details: Edible markers are a great way to add intricate details to your snowman’s face or accessories.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Snowman Family: Make a variety of snowman sizes by using different-sized cookie cutters to create a cute family of snowmen.
Add Flavor to the Dough: Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a warm, wintery flavor.
Gingerbread Snowman: Use a gingerbread-flavored dough to create spiced snowman cookies.

Additional Tips for Success

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature butter and eggs mix better and create a smoother dough.
Pipe Scarves and Hats: For extra detail, use a piping bag with a small tip to create scarves and hats with royal icing.
Store in Layers: Store cookies in layers separated by wax paper to prevent sticking or breaking.

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Snowman Cookies: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
Lemon Snowman Cookies: Add lemon zest and a splash of lemon extract to the dough for a zesty flavor.
Vegan Snowman Cookies: Substitute plant-based butter and use aquafaba (chickpea liquid) in place of eggs to make vegan cookies.

Freezing and Storage

Freeze the Dough: You can freeze the cookie dough discs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling and baking.
Freeze Baked Cookies: Freeze undecorated cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before decorating.
Store Decorated Cookies: Once fully dry, store decorated cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Reduce Sugar: Cut back on the sugar in the dough by 1/4 cup for a slightly less sweet cookie.
Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Natural Food Coloring: Use natural food coloring made from vegetable powders or juices.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Holiday Gift Box: Package a set of snowman cookies in a festive box for a homemade holiday gift.
Cookie Decorating Party: Host a cookie decorating party where friends and family can decorate their own snowmen.
Christmas Dessert Table: Arrange snowman cookies on a festive tray as part of a Christmas dessert spread.

Special Equipment

Piping Bags and Tips: Piping bags with small round tips are ideal for adding details with royal icing.
Snowman Cookie Cutter: A snowman-shaped cookie cutter makes it easy to achieve the classic look of these cookies.
Cooling Rack: Cooling racks allow for even air circulation, helping the cookies set properly after baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different frosting?
- Yes, buttercream frosting can be used but won’t harden as royal icing does.
How long does royal icing take to dry?
- It takes about 8-12 hours to fully harden, so it’s best to leave cookies out overnight before stacking.
Can I make these gluten-free?
- Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make gluten-free snowman cookies.
What’s the best way to transport decorated cookies?
- Layer cookies between sheets of wax paper and place in a sturdy container.
Can I color the cookie dough?
- Absolutely, add a few drops of food coloring for a fun twist on the traditional snowman.
Why is my dough too sticky?
- If your dough is sticky, chill it longer or add a little more flour.
Do I have to use meringue powder?
- Meringue powder is best for royal icing, but egg whites can be used as a substitute.
Can I use store-bought cookie dough?
- Yes, pre-made sugar cookie dough can be used to save time.

Conclusion

These Starbucks-inspired Snowman Cookies bring holiday joy with every bite. With their tender, buttery flavor and festive decorations, they’re a delightful treat that’s perfect for sharing. Whether for holiday gatherings, gifts, or a cozy baking day at home, these cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite. So, grab your cookie cutters and icing, and enjoy making these sweet, cheerful snowmen that capture the spirit of the season!

Snowman Cookies Inspired by Starbucks

Author: Amelia
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including decoration)
Yield: Approximately 20 cookies 1x

Print Recipe

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the Egg and Flavorings: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture, and beat until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the cookies tough.
Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions, flatten into discs, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the dough hold its shape when baking.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a snowman-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Gather the scraps, re-roll, and cut more shapes as needed.
Bake: Place the snowman-shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between each. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the cookies to stay soft.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Royal Icing

Mix the Icing: In a large mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder, and 5 tablespoons of warm water. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat on low until combined, then increase speed and beat until the icing holds stiff peaks, about 5 minutes. Add more water as needed, a few drops at a time, until you reach a pipeable consistency.
Divide and Color: Divide the icing into separate bowls. Leave one portion white for the snowman’s body, tint another portion black for the eyes and buttons, and use orange for the nose. Additional colors can be used for scarves and hats.
Thin the Icing for Flooding: For filling in larger areas, thin some of the white icing with a few drops of water until it reaches a flood consistency (when drizzled, it should settle back into itself within a few seconds).

Step 4: Decorate the Cookies

Outline and Flood: Using a piping bag fitted with a small round tip, outline the snowman’s body with the white icing. Let it set for a minute, then fill in (flood) the center. Use a toothpick to spread the icing and pop any air bubbles. Allow the base layer to dry before adding details.
Add Details: Use black icing for the eyes, mouth, and buttons. For the nose, use orange icing or place a small orange candy piece in the appropriate spot.
Scarf and Hat: Decorate with colored icing for scarves, hats, or earmuffs, and add any additional details like sprinkles or candy decorations. Let the icing dry completely before stacking or storing.

Prep Time: 45 minutes + Chill Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 220 kcal
Sugar: 22g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g

Ingredients

Instructions

Nutrition

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