A Festive, Nutritious Treat

Celebrate the holiday season with a classic cookie recipe with a healthy twist! These Christmas Collagen Snowball Cookies are the perfect addition to your festive dessert table, combining the nostalgic charm of snowball cookies with the added benefits of collagen. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, these cookies are a must-try. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
• 1/4 cup unflavored marine or bovine collagen powder
• 2 tbsp vanilla bean collagen powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unflavored collagen powder, vanilla bean collagen powder, and salt until evenly distributed.
2. Cream wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter (or coconut oil) and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Mix the dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Fold in the finely chopped nuts for added texture.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Form the balls: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake and Coat

1. Bake the cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden on the bottom. Avoid overbaking to maintain their soft texture.
2. Cool slightly: Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while they are still warm. Let them cool completely and roll them in powdered sugar again for a perfect snowy coating.

Tips for the Perfect Snowball Cookies

• Nuts: Use finely chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds for the best results. Toast them lightly beforehand for enhanced flavor.
• Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze them for longer shelf life.
• Collagen benefits: The combination of marine or bovine collagen with vanilla bean collagen makes these cookies a great way to sneak in some extra skin and joint-loving nutrients.

Why You'll Love These Cookies

Not only are these cookies deliciously rich and buttery, but they also provide a healthy twist thanks to the addition of collagen. They’re a great way to share some love—and wellness—this holiday season.

Enjoy baking and sharing these festive treats! Let me know if you'd like further tweaks or festive tips added.