Black Sesame Snowball Cookies

Warm, fragrant, and irresistibly crumbly, these Black Sesame Snowball Cookies are a little bite of happiness in every mouthful. The delicate nuttiness of black sesame seeds blends perfectly with buttery sweetness and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Trust me, you’re going to love this cookie for tea time or whenever you need a sweet little treat.

Behind the Recipe

This cookie recipe has a cozy charm that instantly takes you back to quiet afternoons spent baking at home. I first discovered the magic of black sesame in a small bakery, and ever since, I wanted to recreate that delicate nutty flavor in my own kitchen. There’s something comforting about the way these cookies crackle lightly as they bake, almost like a little whisper telling you a delicious secret.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Black sesame has been cherished in Asian cuisine for centuries, often featured in desserts and confections for its deep, nutty flavor and striking color. Snowball cookies, sometimes called Russian Tea Cakes, are traditionally made with butter, sugar, and flour, then coated in powdered sugar. The combination of sesame and this classic cookie creates a perfect fusion of East and West, making it both familiar and intriguingly unique.

Why You’ll Love Black Sesame Snowball Cookies

Versatile: These cookies pair beautifully with tea, coffee, or even a scoop of ice cream

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry staples that won’t break the bank

Quick and Easy: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make baking a breeze

Customizable: Easily add a pinch of cinnamon or swap in white sesame for a twist

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for holiday gatherings, gift boxes, or casual treats

Make-Ahead Friendly: Dough can be prepared in advance and baked later

Great for Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for days of fresh, crumbly goodness

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Ensure butter is at room temperature for smooth mixing
• Chill the dough before shaping to prevent spreading
• Roll cookies evenly for uniform baking and consistent texture
• Lightly press cookies before baking for a gentle crackle effect

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Short intro paragraph.

Mixing Bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements are key for consistent results
Baking Sheet: To hold cookies during baking
Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and helps even baking
Cooling Rack: Allows cookies to cool completely without getting soggy

Ingredients in Black Sesame Snowball Cookies

Bringing the ingredients together creates a symphony of flavors that melt in your mouth.

1. All-Purpose Flour: 1 1/4 cups, provides structure and softness
2. Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (room temperature), adds richness and tenderness
3. Powdered Sugar: 1/3 cup for the dough, 1/4 cup for rolling, gives sweetness and delicate texture
4. Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons, ensures a light, melt-in-your-mouth crumb
5. Black Sesame Seeds: 1/4 cup, finely ground, adds nutty aroma and deep flavor
6. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, enhances the overall sweetness and depth

Ingredient Substitutions

Unsalted Butter: Can use salted butter and reduce added salt slightly
All-Purpose Flour: Substitute with gluten-free flour blend if needed
Powdered Sugar: Use coconut sugar powder for a different flavor profile

Ingredient Spotlight

Black Sesame Seeds: Provides a deep, nutty flavor and striking dark flecks that make these cookies visually unique

Cornstarch: Helps create a tender, crumbly texture that melts in the mouth

Instructions for Making Black Sesame Snowball Cookies

Making these cookies is as delightful as eating them. Let’s dive in step by step.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
2. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, cream butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla. In another bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and ground black sesame seeds, then gradually mix into the butter mixture until a soft dough forms
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Ensure your baking sheet is lined with parchment paper for even baking and easy cleanup
4. Assemble the Dish: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly
5. Cook to Perfection: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until edges are set but centers remain soft
6. Finishing Touches: While still warm, roll cookies in powdered sugar to coat fully
7. Serve and Enjoy: Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack and enjoy with tea or coffee

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These cookies have a soft, crumbly texture that melts in your mouth, contrasted by the slightly nutty crunch of black sesame. The powdered sugar adds a sweet coating that balances the sesame’s earthiness, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Chill dough to prevent cookies from spreading too much
• Grind sesame seeds finely for even distribution and enhanced flavor
• Avoid overbaking to maintain the delicate melt-in-your-mouth texture

What to Avoid

• Overmixing the dough, which can toughen the cookies
• Skipping the cornstarch, which may result in a denser texture
• Using coarse black sesame without grinding, leading to uneven flavor

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12 cookies
Calories per serving: 150

Note: These are approximate values

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 1 month and thaw at room temperature before serving.

How to Serve Black Sesame Snowball Cookies

Serve with a hot cup of green tea or coffee. For a festive touch, arrange cookies on a platter dusted lightly with extra powdered sugar.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Crush leftover cookies to make a nutty, sweet topping for ice cream or yogurt, or use as a base for mini tart shells.

Additional Tips

• Toast black sesame seeds lightly before grinding for an extra nutty aroma
• Use a cookie scoop for uniform size
• Gently press balls before baking to enhance the crackled look

Make It a Showstopper

Arrange cookies on a tiered serving tray with powdered sugar dusted around for a bakery-style presentation. Add a few whole black sesame seeds on top for visual interest.

Variations to Try

• White sesame seeds for a milder flavor and lighter appearance
• Add matcha powder to the dough for a green tea twist
• Mini chocolate chips for a subtle chocolate-sesame combination

FAQ’s

1. Can I use white sesame instead of black sesame?
   Yes, it will create a milder flavor and lighter appearance, but the texture remains the same
2. How do I make the cookies extra crumbly?
   Ensure you use cornstarch and do not overmix the dough
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
   Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend
4. Should I toast the sesame seeds?
   Lightly toasting enhances flavor but is optional
5. How should I store these cookies?
   In an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days
6. Can I freeze the dough?
   Yes, freeze dough balls on a tray, then store in a bag for up to 1 month
7. Do I need to grind the black sesame seeds?
   Grinding ensures even flavor and a smoother texture
8. Why are my cookies spreading too much?
   Chill the dough before baking and ensure butter is not too soft
9. Can I add other flavors?
   Yes, try vanilla, almond extract, or matcha for unique variations
10. What’s the best way to serve?
    Slightly warm with tea or coffee to enjoy their melt-in-your-mouth texture

Conclusion

These Black Sesame Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that balances nutty depth with tender, buttery sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a simple afternoon snack, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite, and you’ll find yourself coming back for more.

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