Delicious Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls for Happy Snacking

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

When I first took a bite of these Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls, I was immediately transported to a world where comfort meets crunch. The delightful golden exterior is a promise of the chewy surprises held within. I discovered this recipe during a cozy afternoon in my kitchen, experimenting with ingredients I had on hand. A simple mix of low gluten flour, sugar, and the earthy elegance of sesame seeds, these cookie balls quickly became my go-to treat for gatherings.

Not only are they easy to whip up perfect for those busy weeknights but they also shine at any gathering, becoming the conversation starter among friends and family. Picture your loved ones gathered around, waiting eagerly as the aroma of frying cookies wafts through your home. Trust me, the process is as satisfying as the final bite, and each crunchy morsel invites smiles all around. If you re looking to add a unique twist to your snack lineup, let me guide you through creating these irresistible bites!

Why will you adore Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls?

Unforgettable flavor: The nutty crunch of sesame seeds contrasts beautifully with a sweet, chewy center, offering a delightful taste sensation in every bite.

Quick to make: Ready in just over an hour, these cookie balls fit perfectly into your busy routine, providing a comforting snack without the fuss.

Crowd-pleaser: Whether it s a family gathering or a casual get-together, these treats are sure to be the star of the show as everyone reaches for another.

Versatile base: Feel free to experiment! You can infuse new flavors by adding spices or zest for a surprise twist.

Simple techniques: With just a few easy steps, even novice bakers can achieve success. You ll be proud to share these with friends check out how to impress with other easy treats!

Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls Ingredients

The secret to these delightful treats lies in their simplicity!

For the Dough

• Low gluten flour This gives the cookie balls a chewy texture that contrasts wonderfully with their crunchy exterior.
• Sugar Adds sweetness and helps achieve that golden color when baked.
• Baking powder A leavening agent that provides a light texture to each cookie ball.
• Baking soda Works alongside baking powder for a perfect rise and fluffiness.
• Egg Binds the ingredients together and enriches the flavor of the cookie balls.
• Melted butter Adds moisture and flavor, making these Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls irresistibly rich.
• Water Helps to combine the ingredients and adjust the dough s consistency to perfection.

For the Coating

• Sesame seeds Bring a nutty crunch and a touch of elegance; their golden hue is visually delightful.

For Frying

• Cooking oil Enough to completely submerge the cookie balls ensures that they fry up beautifully, creating a crispy texture.

Get ready to discover the perfect combination of flavors and textures that will make these Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls a family favorite!

How to Make Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls

1. Mix the low gluten flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sugar in a large mixing bowl until well combined. This creates a solid base for the delightful cookie balls.

2. Combine the cooled melted butter, egg, and water in a separate bowl. This wet mixture adds richness and binds everything together, essential for the perfect texture.

3. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients bit by bit while mixing to prevent clumps. You want it to form a smooth dough, so take your time with this step.

4. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and let it rest for 20 minutes. This resting time is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld and the dough to relax.

5. Knead the dough for 2 minutes until smooth. This adds elasticity and ensures a chewy texture in your final cookie balls.

6. Scoop enough dough to roll into a 3 cm ball, dusting your hands with low gluten flour to prevent sticking. Repeat this until all the dough is rolled into cheerful little balls.

7. Dip part of each ball s surface into water, then roll in sesame seeds to coat. This not only enhances flavor but also gives a lovely crunch when fried.

8. Reform the shape of each ball with your hands, making sure they are evenly rounded, and then set aside. This ensures each cookie ball fries evenly.

9. Heat a pot of oil to 120 °C/250 °F and carefully fry the dough in batches for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them for that perfect crisp!

10. Drain the cookie balls on a plate lined with paper towels after frying. This helps remove excess oil and keeps them light and lovely!

Optional: Sprinkle with a little extra sesame seeds before serving for added crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls Variations

Feel free to get creative with these cookie balls your kitchen adventure awaits!

• Nutty Twist: Add 50 g of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, to the dough for added crunch and flavor. They bring a delightful texture that pairs beautifully with sesame seeds.

• Sweet Surprise: Include 100 g of chocolate chips for a sweet contrast. Melting into the chewy dough, the chocolate adds a luscious layer of indulgence that chocolate lovers will adore.

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter to make these cookie balls dairy-free. This swap keeps them rich while catering to diverse dietary needs.

• Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough for a burst of freshness. The citrus aroma infused into each bite brings a bright flavor that awakens the senses!

• Spicy Kick: Mix in 1/2 tsp of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy version. This unexpected heat in the background turns ordinary snacking into a colorful experience.

• Herb Infusion: Incorporate a teaspoon of fresh finely chopped herbs like mint or basil for a unique herby touch. It s a fun way to surprise your taste buds and elevate your cookie experience!

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of low gluten flour to make these cookie balls accessible for gluten-sensitive friends. They ll still deliver that chewy goodness everyone loves.

• Savory Addition: Experiment by omitting sugar and adding 1/2 tsp of garlic powder for a savory treat. Serve these savory bites alongside dips for an adventurous party platter.

What to Serve with Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls?

Crafting a delightful meal around these crunchy, chewy treats is a true pleasure, inviting warmth and joy into your kitchen.

• Spicy Dipping Sauce: A zesty chili garlic sauce adds a kick, perfect for balancing the sweet, nutty flavor of the cookie balls.

• Refreshing Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a light vinegar dressing offer a cool contrast, balancing the richness of the cookies beautifully.

• Green Tea: Enjoy a soothing cup of green tea alongside these sesame bites, enhancing their flavors while providing a calming finish.

• Sweet Coconut Soup: This creamy, subtly sweet soup pairs excellently, offering a luscious complement to the crunchy texture of the cookie balls.

• Fruit Platter: A vibrant selection of seasonal fruits introduces a fresh burst of flavor, balancing the sweetness of the Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls.

• Homemade Mango Lassi: Creamy and tangy, this yogurt drink brings a refreshing touch, enhancing your snacking experience with its delightful flavors.

• Honey Drizzle: A touch of honey over the cookie balls can elevate their sweetness, creating an irresistible combination loved by everyone at the table.

Invite your loved ones to share in this delightful feast, and let every bite of the Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls shine!

Make Ahead Options

These Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Simply mix the ingredients, let the dough rest, and shape the cookie balls before placing them in the fridge. When you re ready to enjoy them, take the dough out, roll in sesame seeds, and fry them directly from the refrigerator. This way, you bypass the lengthy preparation time on the day you want to serve these delightful snacks, ensuring they are just as delicious and golden brown, while saving you precious minutes during your busy week!

How to Store and Freeze Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls

Room Temperature: Keep your cookie balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their crunchy texture while staying fresh.

Fridge: For longer freshness, store the Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to seal them well to prevent moisture.

Freezer: To freeze, arrange the cookie balls in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, warm the cookie balls for 5-10 minutes in the oven at 180 °C/350 °F to restore their crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy!

Helpful Tricks for Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls

• Perfect Dough Texture: Ensure your dough is smooth and not too sticky by adding flour gradually. This helps achieve the ideal texture for your Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls.

• Sesame Seed Coating: Don t skip the water dip before rolling in sesame seeds. It helps the seeds adhere better, adding that irresistible crunch to the cookies.

• Consistent Ball Size: For even frying, make sure your cookie balls are uniform in size. Use a small ice cream scoop for consistent portions.

• Frying Temperature: Maintain the oil at 120 °C/250 °F for the best results. Too hot, and the outside will burn while the inside remains raw; too cool, and they won t crisp.

• Avoid Oil Overcrowding: Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature consistent. Overcrowding can lead to soggy cookie balls instead of that delightful crunch.

Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right sesame seeds?
Absolutely! When selecting sesame seeds, look for ones that are plump and have a lovely light tan or off-white color. Avoid seeds that appear discolored or have dark spots all over, as these may be older or rancid. Fresh sesame seeds should smell nutty and delightful!

How do I properly store my Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls?
You can keep your cookie balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help them retain their crunch. If you prefer them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week but make sure they re sealed to prevent moisture from making them soft.

Can I freeze Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cookie balls, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, and they will store well for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for 5-10 minutes at 180 °C/350 °F to restore their crispy texture.

Why are my cookie balls not cooking evenly?
No worries! If your Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls are not cooking evenly, it might be due to the size inconsistency. Ensure you re rolling them into uniform sizes and frying in small batches. Also, maintaining the oil temperature at 120 °C/250 °F is crucial; otherwise, the outside might cook too quickly or too slowly.

Are Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes! This recipe does not contain nuts, making it a great option for those with nut allergies. However, always check your sesame seeds packaging for potential cross-contamination warnings, just to be safe. If you re making these for someone with specific dietary concerns, always feel free to ask or inform them about the ingredients you used.

How long is the resting period for the dough, and why is it important?
The resting period for your dough is 20 minutes! This step is crucial as it allows the gluten in the flour to relax, making the dough easier to handle. It also helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Don t rush this part; it s part of what makes your Smiling Sesame Cookie Balls so delicious!