Before we dive in, I just want to say thank you. Truly. If you’re here reading this, then you’re probably someone who appreciates the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together to make something unexpectedly special—and that’s exactly what these Mascarpone Snowballs are all about. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, pulling together a dessert platter, or just craving a bite of something sweet and elegant… you’re in for a treat.
These no-bake mascarpone snowballs are my new obsession—and they might just become yours too. Creamy, subtly sweet, and impossibly pretty with their powdered sugar “snow,” they’re a total crowd-pleaser. And guess what? They’re as easy to make as they are to fall in love with.
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What Are Mascarpone Snowballs?
Think of these as little clouds of mascarpone bliss. They’re softly sweet, chilled to just the right texture, and rolled in powdered sugar for that dreamy, snowy finish. They’re not baked, not overly sweet, and definitely not boring!
Why You’ll Love These Mascarpone Snowballs
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No baking required 🙌
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Creamy and rich with just the right amount of sweetness
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Elegant enough for entertaining, easy enough for a weeknight treat
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Versatile—add citrus zest, a splash of liqueur, or even mini chocolate chips
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Make-ahead friendly (and they freeze beautifully!)
What Do Mascarpone Snowballs Taste Like?
They’re creamy, dreamy, and melt-in-your-mouth soft. The mascarpone brings a rich, buttery flavor while a touch of vanilla and powdered sugar keep things light and sweet. When chilled just right, the inside stays silky while the outside has that perfect snow-dusted finish. Pair them with berries and… wow. Just wow.
Ingredients
You only need a few simple ingredients:
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8 oz mascarpone cheese (cold, not room temp)
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1/3 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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Optional: pinch of salt, lemon zest, or splash of amaretto
Tools You’ll Need
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Mixing bowl
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Hand mixer or whisk
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Cookie scoop or tablespoon
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Parchment paper
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Tray for freezing
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Fine mesh sieve for dusting with powdered sugar
Optional Additions & Substitutions
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Lemon zest: adds brightness
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Mini chocolate chips: for a surprise inside
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Almond extract: in place of vanilla for a nuttier twist
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Cream cheese: swap half the mascarpone for tangier flavor
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Cocoa powder: for a chocolatey version before rolling in sugar
How to Make Mascarpone Snowballs (Step-by-Step)
1. Mix
In a mixing bowl, combine cold mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until just combined and smooth—don’t overmix or it’ll become too soft.
💡 Tip: You want the texture to be thick and creamy, not runny. If it’s too soft, pop the bowl in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before shaping.
2. Shape
Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, form small dome-shaped balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
🎯 Key Tip: The cookie scoop gives you that perfect, rounded snowball look!
3. Freeze
Place the tray in the freezer for about 1 hour, or until they’re firm enough to hold their shape but still soft and creamy inside.
4. Dust
Right before serving, roll or dust each ball generously with powdered sugar. Use a fine mesh sieve for that pretty, snowy look!
What to Serve with Mascarpone Snowballs
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Fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries
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Crushed pistachios or slivered almonds on the side
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A drizzle of honey or dark chocolate sauce
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Espresso or chilled dessert wine
Tips for the Creamiest, Dreamiest Snowballs
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Don’t overmix: Mascarpone breaks down easily—less is more!
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Chill strategically: Just enough to hold shape but not freeze solid.
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Serve slightly chilled: That soft, luscious center is what makes them magic.
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Use a scoop: For consistent size and that picture-perfect look.
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Dust just before serving: Keeps the snowy effect fresh and beautiful.
How to Store
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Store snowballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Freeze for up to 1 month—just thaw in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
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Dust with powdered sugar right before serving to keep them looking their best.
General Info
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Yield: About 10–12 snowballs
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Freeze time: 1 hour
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Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
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Skill level: Easy (kid-friendly, too!)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
You can! Cream cheese is a bit tangier and firmer, so it will change the flavor and texture slightly—but still delicious.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Freeze them ahead, and dust with sugar right before serving.
Are these gluten-free?
Yes! As long as all your ingredients are gluten-free, you’re good to go.
What if my mixture is too soft to scoop?
Pop it in the fridge for 20–30 minutes. You want it cold enough to hold shape but not hard.
Conclusion
Mascarpone Snowballs are one of those effortless desserts that surprise you with how fancy they feel and how simple they are to make. Elegant, creamy, and lightly sweet, they’re perfect for entertaining or just a little “treat yourself” moment on a Thursday night.
Whether you’re dusting them up for a holiday spread or pairing them with berries for a romantic dessert, they’re bound to make a lasting impression.
🍑 Want more creamy, dreamy desserts? Check out these other reader favorites:
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[Peach Mascarpone Tartlets with Honey Drizzle]
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[Frozen Yogurt Peach Bites]
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[Peach Shortbread Bars with a Twist of Thyme]
Share Your Snowballs! ❄️
If you make these, I would LOVE to see them!! Tag me on Pinterest or leave a review below with a photo—seriously, it makes my day every time. 💕
Nutritional Information (Per Snowball – Approximate)
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Calories: 120
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Fat: 10g
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Carbs: 6g
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Sugar: 5g
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Protein: 2g
Ready to scoop, chill, and snow? Let’s do this! 🖤
