How to Make Gingerbread Snowballs for a Festive Treat

Tis the season for cozy spices and guilt-free indulgence! These Gingerbread Snowballs are a holiday twist on the classic cookie, combining warm gingerbread flavors with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture—all while keeping SmartPoints in check. Rolled in powdered sugar substitute, these bite-sized delights are perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive & Flavorful: Cinnamon, ginger, and molasses create that iconic holiday taste.
• Weight Watchers-Friendly: Lower in sugar and fat than traditional recipes, with portion-controlled servings.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, with no fancy equipment needed.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Kids and adults alike will adore these snowy, spiced bites.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and stash dough or baked cookies for last-minute festivities.

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or gluten-free 1:1 baking flour)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (replaces oil/butter)
• 1/4 cup light molasses (or sugar-free maple syrup for fewer points)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar substitute (e.g., Swerve or Monk Fruit)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar substitute (for coating, like Swerve Confectioners)

Instructions

Mix Dry Ingredients

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, stir applesauce, molasses, sugar substitute, and vanilla until smooth.

Form the Dough

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms.
2. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes to firm up (this makes rolling easier).

Roll & Bake

1. Scoop 1-tbsp portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them 1 inch apart on the baking sheet.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.

Coat in “Snow”

1. Let cookies cool for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar substitute while still warm.
2. For a extra snowy look, roll them again once fully cooled.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: ~60
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugar: 2g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Fiber: 1g
• WW SmartPoints: 2 (with molasses) or 3 (if using sugar-free syrup).

Tips for Success

1. Keep Dough Chill: If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before rolling.
2. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth.
3. Soft Texture: Don’t overbake! Cookies firm up as they cool.
4. Gift-Worthy: Package in festive tins with a WW points note for friends.

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Watchers

Traditional gingerbread cookies can pack a sugary punch, but this version slashes points by:

• Using applesauce instead of butter or oil.
• Opting for sugar substitutes to cut calories.
• Incorporating whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Keeping portions small but satisfying.

Serving Ideas

• Holiday Platter: Pair with clementines, dark chocolate-dipped fruit, and spiced tea.
• Dessert Charcuterie: Add to a board with Greek yogurt dip and fresh berries.
• Coffee Companion: Serve with a dusting of cocoa powder for a mocha twist.

Gingerbread Snowballs are the ultimate holiday hack—spiced, sweet, and perfectly portioned. Whether you’re hosting a party, surprising coworkers, or treating yourself, these cookies deliver all the cozy joy of the season without the guilt. Whip up a batch and let the aroma of gingerbread fill your kitchen with holiday cheer!