Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies have a special place in my kitchen because they turned a simple snack into a memorable moment during a chilly winter evening. I first stumbled upon these savory treats when a good friend brought them over to our holiday gathering a few years ago. The delicate snowflake shapes caught everyone’s attention, but it was the burst of rosemary and parmesan flavor that made these cookies unforgettable. As soon as I bit into one, I knew this wasn’t your typical sweet cookie. It was a delightful mix of crispness and herby cheese that immediately felt like something worth sharing every holiday season.
Since then, Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies became a staple in my recipe collection, not just for special occasions but for easy weekday entertaining. They feel festive without fuss, making them my go-to savory treat when I want something that pairs perfectly with drinks or adds a little spark to an appetizer plate. Whether it’s a last-minute guest or a quiet night in, these snowflake shaped cookies never fail to impress and satisfy those savory cravings.
If you’re looking for a reliable recipe that combines the warmth of fresh rosemary with the salty richness of parmesan cheese, this is it. Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies are approachable, use ingredients you probably already have, and bring a unique twist to holiday savory appetizers or everyday snack times. Fellow home cooks, if you want a delicious and doable way to bring herb infused savory snacks to your table, I promise these cookies will become a favorite in your rotation as well.
These snowflake shaped cookies remind me of other reliable crowd-pleasers like the chocolate cut out heart cookies, perfect for keeping things balanced between sweet and savory all year round. Let’s get into why this recipe is so easy to love and why you’re going to want to bake a batch this week.
What You’ll Need:
To make these Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies, you’ll need ingredients that are straightforward and mostly pantry staples. Here’s exactly what I use every time:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – This is the base of your dough. No need for special flours here.
- 1 tsp baking powder – Just a small lift for the perfect biscuit-like texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Adjust if your parmesan is extra salty.
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh rosemary – The star herb for that savory punch. If fresh isn’t available, dried works too; just use a teaspoon.
- 3/4 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes) – Cold butter makes the cookies nice and flaky.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese – The real deal, not pre-grated powder. The quality really shines through here.
- 1/4 cup cold water – To bring the dough together without overworking it.

No problem if you don’t have fresh rosemary or want a twist. You can swap in thyme or sage for an herb infused savory snack variation that’s just as tasty. Parmesan cheese biscuits get their rich flavor not just from the cheese but also the butter, so don’t skimp there. You’ll find rosemary in the fresh herb section of most grocery stores but dried is usually available near other spices.
I love this recipe because it’s affordable. Flour, butter, and parmesan are basics you can find year-round, meaning you don’t need a special trip to the store. Pro tip: grate your own parmesan right before making your Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies for the best flavor.
If you’re short on time, you can make the dough ahead and chill it for up to 2 days—perfect prep for busy weeknights or unexpected company. Leftover cookies keep well in an airtight container for up to a week, and they even freeze nicely. That way, you always have an herb infused savory snack ready to go.
If you want to explore more herb inspired savory treats, the savory rosemary-parmesan snowflake cookies post has some lovely pictures and tips.
Let’s Cook It Together!
Making Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies from scratch might seem tricky, but it’s actually a smooth and enjoyable process. Here’s how I do it step-by-step:
- Prep your ingredients and workspace. Make sure the butter is cold and your rosemary is finely chopped. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Having everything ready keeps you relaxed through the process.
- Mix dry ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, salt, and chopped rosemary. This evenly distributes the herb flavor in your Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies.
- Cut in the butter. Add your cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized bits of butter. This will help the cookies be flaky and tender.
- Add parmesan cheese. Stir in 1 cup grated parmesan. It might clump a little with the butter, but that’s okay. The cheesy pockets add waves of flavor to every bite.
- Add cold water gradually. Pour in 1/4 cup iced water a tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough forms. Don’t overwork—this keeps your Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies from getting tough.
- Shape and chill the dough. Form the dough into a flat disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill it for at least 30 minutes. This step makes rolling easier and preserves the snowflake shapes better when baking.
- Roll out the dough. Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a snowflake shaped cookie cutter to cut each cookie carefully.
- Transfer to baking sheet. Place your cut cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them so they don’t stick together as they bake. Chill them again for 10 minutes if you want extra crisp edges.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes. Bake at 375°F until the edges are golden and the cheese bubbles slightly. Your kitchen should smell incredible, with that fresh rosemary aroma mingling with nutty parmesan.
- Cool and enjoy. Let cookies cool on the pan for a few minutes before moving to a wire rack. They crisp up as they cool and are best served within a day or two for fresh flavor.
From start to finish, this Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies recipe takes about an hour including chilling time, making it perfect for a weekend project or advance prep. While your cookies bake, I often pour a glass of wine or set out some veggies to round out an easy appetizer table.
If your dough feels too dry or crumbly, add a tiny splash more water – patience here makes all the difference in texture. Rushing with warm butter can turn these savory rosemary cookies oily, so keep it cool and steady.
This kind of herb infused savory snack pairs beautifully with crisply sliced cured meats or a simple bowl of marinated olives for holiday savory appetizers everyone will ask about. If you want another take on savory baking, this savory star bread from King Arthur Baking has some inspiring ideas for mixing herbs and cheese in festive shapes you might love.
How to Serve & Enjoy It!
Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies shine best when shared alongside crunchy, fresh elements and mild cheeses. They’re simply perfect for a holiday savory appetizer plate, but don’t box yourself in.
I love serving these snowflake shaped cookies stacked with slices of fresh apple or pear, and a few slices of mild cheddar or cream cheese spreads. The sweetness and creaminess balance out the savory rosemary cookies beautifully.

For casual gatherings, pair them with a charcuterie board featuring prosciutto, olives, and nuts. The salty parmesan cheese biscuits add that delightful crunch and flavor contrast that guests rave about.
These cookies are also great for a cozy night in. Serve warm with a cup of soup or alongside a leafy green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to brighten everything up. For leftover ideas, crumble the Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies over soups or toss them in salads for an herb infused savory crunch that stands out from ordinary croutons.
Seasonal variations are fun too. Try stirring in a bit of crushed red pepper flakes or swapping rosemary for sage during the fall to give your holiday savory appetizers a new twist.
If your family loves this recipe, they might also enjoy the heart-shaped chocolate chip cookies for a sweet finish, or the orange clove cookies for a spiced treat that pairs well with a festive spread.
Every time I serve this Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies, I get the same warm reactions — from surprised smiles to quick requests for the recipe. It’s a simple way to bring people together over flavors that feel special without being complicated.
Your Questions Answered
Can I make Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough freezes well for up to a month, and baked cookies keep fresh for a week in an airtight container. Just reheat them briefly if you want that fresh-baked warm crispness.
What’s the best substitute for fresh rosemary?
Dried rosemary is a fine substitute—use about a third of the amount since it’s more concentrated. Thyme or sage can also work if you’re out of rosemary.
How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?
Double or triple the ingredients easily. You’ll want to chill the dough in batches for best results. Just watch your baking times as larger batches may affect oven heat distribution.
Can I use pre-grated parmesan?
I recommend grating your own for the best flavor and texture, but pre-grated works in a pinch. Avoid the powdered kind; it lacks the punch your Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies need.
What if my dough is too sticky or dry?
If it’s sticky, chill it longer or add a touch more flour. If dry and crumbly, add a teaspoon more iced water at a time until it comes together.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can try a gluten-free blend with a little xanthan gum added. I haven’t tested it extensively but many home cooks have good results with gluten-free parbaking.
Can I make the cookies without the snowflake cutter?
Yes, these Parmesan cheese biscuits taste great no matter the shape. Circles, stars, or rustic hand-formed shapes all work. Cookie cutters just make it festive and fun.
If you want to see other versions of herb infused savory snacks, check out this Parmesan Crisps addition to charcuterie boards — it’s a sharp, crunchy treat that’s a nice change-up from these snowflake shaped cookies.
Final Thoughts
Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies hold a permanent spot in my recipe box because they’re both versatile and reliably delicious. My Best Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies Tips:
- Use cold butter and chill the dough well to preserve that perfect flaky texture.
- Freshly grate your parmesan cheese for the best rich, cheesy flavor.
- Don’t rush the shaping; those crisp edges make all the difference in presentation and crunch.
Over the years, I’ve tried versions adding cracked black pepper, swapping herbs, or mixing in finely chopped nuts for texture. But the original rosemary and parmesan combination remains the most requested and crowd-pleasing every time.
I encourage you to personalize this recipe to fit your kitchen and taste buds. Maybe you’ll swap herbs, use a different cheese, or shape these Parmesan cheese biscuits differently. However you make them, I hope you’ll love the way these herb infused savory snacks bring warmth and flavor to your table — just like they did for me the first chilly night I tasted them.
If this recipe inspires you, you might also want to check out savory and sweet treats like the heart-shaped chocolate chip cookies, or the cozy orange clove cookies.
You can confidently bring these Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies to your next gathering or simply enjoy them as your new favorite snack. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and always welcome on any table. Happy baking, fellow home cooks!
Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies
These Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies are a savory and elegant treat combining fragrant rosemary with sharp Parmesan cheese, perfect for festive occasions or as a unique appetizer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and grated Parmesan until smooth and combined.
- Stir in the chopped rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a stiff dough forms.
- Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use a snowflake-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush each cookie lightly with the beaten egg and sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cookies are firm to the touch.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For an extra festive touch, drizzle the cooled cookies with a light balsamic glaze or serve alongside a mild honey mustard dip.