Snowball cookies are a holiday favorite, known for their delicate texture, buttery flavor, and snowy coating of powdered sugar. Whether you call them Mexican Wedding Cookies, Russian Tea Cakes, or Butterball Cookies, these bite-sized delights are the perfect treat for any festive occasion. Best of all, they are easy to make with just a few simple ingredients!
Why You’ll Love These Snowball Cookies
- Irresistibly Buttery: The perfect balance of butter and powdered sugar creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Nutty and Flavorful: Traditional recipes use finely chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for added crunch and richness.
- Easy to Make: With only six ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly and comes together in less than 30 minutes.
- Perfect for Gifting: These cookies store well and make a beautiful holiday gift when packed in festive tins.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for coating
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans (or walnuts/almonds)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Stir in the finely chopped nuts to evenly distribute them.
3. Shape the Cookies
Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are light golden brown. Be careful not to overbake, as they should remain soft.
5. Coat in Powdered Sugar
While the cookies are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar to create the signature snowball effect. Let them cool completely, then roll them again for a second coating.
Pro Tips for the Best Snowball Cookies
- Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
- Chop the nuts finely to ensure an even texture.
- Double-coat in powdered sugar for the perfect snowy finish.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freeze the dough for up to three months for easy holiday baking.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Chip Snowballs: Add mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
- Coconut Snowballs: Mix in shredded coconut for extra flavor.
- Lemon Snowballs: Add lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
Pairing Suggestions
- Serve with hot cocoa, coffee, or eggnog for the perfect holiday treat.
- Pair with a glass of milk for a classic combination.
Conclusion
Snowball cookies are a timeless holiday classic that are easy to make, rich in flavor, and beautifully festive. Whether you're baking them for a family gathering, cookie exchange, or as a homemade gift, these buttery, nutty delights will always be a hit!
Comments
Post a Comment