Slow Cooker Snowballs That Are Warm, Gooey, and Perfectly Sweet

Slow Cooker Snowballs are the ultimate cozy dessert when you want something warm, soft, and comforting without turning on the oven. These sweet little dough balls cook gently in the slow cooker, soaking up melted butter, cinnamon sugar, and vanilla until they become irresistibly tender. Finished with powdered sugar or a simple glaze, Slow Cooker Snowballs feel festive, indulgent, and completely effortless.

This recipe is perfect for holidays, weekend treats, or anytime you crave a homemade dessert with minimal work. Because the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, you can focus on other tasks while the kitchen fills with the warm aroma of cinnamon and sugar. Once you try Slow Cooker Snowballs, they quickly become a go-to dessert for busy days and cozy nights.

I first made these snowballs during a cold weekend when I wanted something sweet but didn’t feel like baking. I tossed everything into the slow cooker, set the lid, and forgot about it for a while. When I lifted the lid later, the dough was soft, fluffy, and coated in sticky sweetness. One bite was all it took to make this recipe a regular favorite.

Why Slow Cooker Snowballs Are So Special

No Oven, No Stress

One of the biggest advantages of Slow Cooker Snowballs is convenience. There’s no oven to preheat and no precise timing to worry about. The slow cooker provides gentle, even heat that keeps the dough from drying out.

This hands-off method makes the recipe approachable even for beginners. You simply prep, set, and wait.

Soft, Melt-In-Your-Mouth Texture

Unlike baked rolls that can develop crisp edges, snowballs cooked in the slow cooker stay pillowy and tender. The moisture trapped inside the slow cooker creates a soft texture that feels indulgent and comforting.

Because the dough cooks slowly, it absorbs the cinnamon sugar and butter evenly, which creates flavor in every bite.

Ingredients That Deliver Big Flavor

Biscuit Dough for Ease

Using refrigerated biscuit dough keeps the recipe quick and foolproof. The dough puffs gently as it cooks, forming round, soft snowballs that are easy to portion and serve. Homemade biscuit dough also works if you prefer.

Cinnamon Sugar and Butter

Granulated sugar and cinnamon create that classic warm flavor everyone loves. Melted butter coats the dough, helping the sugar stick while adding richness. Vanilla extract enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavor.

Powdered Sugar and Glaze

Powdered sugar gives the snowballs their signature “snowy” look. For extra indulgence, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk adds a creamy finish that melts into the warm dough.

How to Make Slow Cooker Snowballs

Preparing the Dough

Start by cutting each biscuit into quarters. Rolling them lightly between your hands helps create round shapes, but this step is optional. Place the dough pieces in a large bowl.

In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon. Pour the melted butter and vanilla over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top. Toss gently until every piece is coated.

Cooking in the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the slow cooker to prevent sticking. Add the coated dough pieces, spreading them evenly. Cover and cook on low for about 2 hours or on high for 1 to 1½ hours.

The snowballs are done when they are puffed, cooked through, and soft to the touch. Avoid overcooking, since that can dry them out.

Finishing Touches

Powdered Sugar Coating

Once cooked, gently remove the snowballs and dust them generously with powdered sugar. This step adds sweetness and gives them their festive appearance.

Optional Glaze

For an extra treat, whisk powdered sugar with a small amount of milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm snowballs just before serving. The glaze seeps into the dough, adding even more richness.

Serving Ideas

Perfect Occasions

Slow Cooker Snowballs are ideal for holiday mornings, family gatherings, potlucks, and casual desserts. They pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.

Because they’re bite-sized, guests can easily help themselves, which makes them great for sharing.

Toppings and Variations

You can customize these snowballs in many ways. Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar for warmth, or mix mini chocolate chips into the dough for a sweeter twist. Chopped nuts also add texture.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day or in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Reheating Tips

Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds to restore softness. Dust with extra powdered sugar after reheating if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade biscuit dough?
Yes. Homemade dough works well if cut into small pieces.

Do I need liners in the slow cooker?
No, just grease the slow cooker lightly.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, as long as your slow cooker is large enough.

Why are my snowballs dry?
They may have cooked too long. Check early to prevent overcooking.

Can I make these ahead of time?
They are best served warm, but can be reheated gently.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Snowballs are proof that simple ingredients and easy methods can create truly comforting desserts. Warm, gooey, and perfectly sweet, these snowballs are ideal for cozy days and festive gatherings alike. With minimal prep and maximum reward, this recipe deserves a spot in your slow cooker rotation.