If you’ve ever wished for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth cookie that feels like a cozy hug from the inside out, this Snowball Cookies Recipe is exactly what you’ve been dreaming of. With tender, buttery dough, a gentle crunch from the finely chopped nuts, and a delicate dusting of powdered sugar, these little delights are holiday classics that bring warmth to any season. Whether you’re baking them for a festive celebration or a simple treat, these cookies promise pure comfort and joy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to bake these charming snowballs is delightfully simple, thanks to a handful of essential ingredients. Each one plays a special role, from the creamy richness of butter to the subtle sweetness of powdered sugar and the satisfying crunch of nuts, making the end result irresistibly delicious.
- Unsalted butter, 1 cup (2 sticks), softened: This is the base of your dough, giving it a rich, creamy texture that’s crucial for tender cookies.
- Powdered sugar, 1/2 cup (plus more for coating): Adds sweetness and helps create that classic snowy coating everyone loves on these cookies.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste beautifully.
- All-purpose flour, 2 1/4 cups: Provides the structure, holding the cookie together without making it tough.
- Salt, 1/4 teaspoon: Balances the sweetness and deepens the flavors to make every bite more satisfying.
- Finely chopped pecans or walnuts, 3/4 cup: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty richness that makes these cookies stand out.
How to Make Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple setup ensures your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter together with 1/2 cup powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for creating that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that Snowball Cookies Recipe fans adore.
Step 3: Incorporate Vanilla, Flour, and Salt
Add the vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mix, giving your dough that wonderful aromatic profile. Then gradually blend in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing just until everything is combined to maintain a delicate crumb.
Step 4: Stir in Chopped Nuts
Fold in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts, distributing the nuts evenly. This gives the cookies their signature nutty bite and adds a lovely texture contrast that’s delightful.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Scoop the dough by tablespoonfuls and roll each into a neat ball. Place them about 1 inch apart on your prepared baking sheet to allow space for gentle spreading. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, watching for lightly golden bottoms while the tops remain pale and soft.
Step 6: Roll in Powdered Sugar
Once baked, let the cookies rest on the pan for 5 minutes to firm up slightly, then roll them carefully in powdered sugar while warm. After cooling completely, give them a second roll in powdered sugar for that enchanting snowy finish everyone talks about.
How to Serve Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the visual appeal and flavor by dusting additional powdered sugar right before serving, making the cookies look as freshly fallen as a winter morning. You can also sprinkle a tiny pinch of finely chopped nuts on top for added texture and a rustic touch.
Side Dishes
Snowball Cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of spiced tea or creamy coffee—think chai, cinnamon latte, or a rich hot chocolate. The warm beverages complement the buttery sweetness and nutty flavors, creating a cozy snack experience perfect for chilly days.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive spread, arrange the cookies in a neat snowball pyramid or nestle them in a decorative tin lined with colorful parchment. Gifting them in small cellophane bags tied with ribbon instantly makes them a charming homemade present. Don’t be shy about adding edible glitter or crushed candy canes for a playful holiday twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Snowball cookies keep their wonderful texture for several days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keeping them sealed preserves their tender crumb and snowy coating without drying them out, so you can enjoy their fresh-baked goodness anytime.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the unbaked dough balls on a tray and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time. This method ensures you always have these delicious cookies on hand.
Reheating
To refresh slightly older cookies, warm them briefly in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 5-7 minutes. This revives their soft texture without melting the powdered sugar coating. Avoid microwaving as it can make them too soft or even greasy.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts in the Snowball Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans and walnuts are classic choices, almonds or hazelnuts work wonderfully too. Just make sure to finely chop them to maintain that perfect cookie texture.
What if I want to make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend. It’s best to pick one that includes xanthan gum for binding, and keep an eye on the dough’s consistency since gluten-free flours vary.
Are Snowball Cookies suitable for storing in the freezer after baking?
Yes, baked snowball cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag with parchment layers to prevent sticking. Thaw at room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavor.
How do I keep the powdered sugar coating intact?
Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still warm helps it adhere better. For an extra snowy effect, rolling them again after they cool completely locks in that signature look and taste.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
You can try replacing the butter with a vegan butter substitute and ensure your powdered sugar is vegan-friendly. The texture might differ slightly, but with careful ingredient choices, tasty vegan snowball cookies are achievable.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the simplicity and warmth packed into this Snowball Cookies Recipe. Each bite carries the perfect balance of buttery softness and nutty crunch, all wrapped up in a sweet snowy coat that’s both charming and comforting. Whether you’re making them for the holidays or as a sweet surprise for someone special, these cookies have a way of spreading happiness and cozy vibes. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and create a batch to share—your taste buds and friends will thank you!
Print
Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these classic Snowball Cookies, tender, buttery treats loaded with finely chopped nuts and coated in powdered sugar for a snowy, festive finish. Perfect for holiday celebrations or anytime you crave a melt-in-your-mouth cookie with a nutty crunch.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for coating)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, ensuring a tender texture for your cookies.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Mix in the vanilla extract to infuse a rich, warm flavor that complements the buttery dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overworking the dough which could make the cookies tough.
- Incorporate Nuts: Stir in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts evenly throughout the dough for a delightful crunch in every bite.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop the dough by tablespoonfuls and roll them into smooth balls. Place each ball about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow for slight spreading.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until the bottoms turn just lightly golden. The tops will remain pale, indicating perfect doneness without overbaking.
- Cool and Coat with Sugar: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes to firm up slightly. While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar to create the iconic snowball look.
- Final Cooling and Sugar Coat: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, roll them again in powdered sugar for a beautiful, snowy finish.
Notes
- Almonds or hazelnuts can be used as a substitute for pecans or walnuts to vary the nutty flavor.
- For make-ahead convenience, freeze unbaked dough balls. Bake them directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the baking time to ensure they cook thoroughly.
