Snowball Cookies Recipe

If you’ve never experienced the simple joy of Snowball Cookies, you’re in for an absolute treat. These melt-in-your-mouth nutty confections are beloved for their buttery flavor, rich crumb, and signature snowy powdered sugar coating. Whether you call them Russian tea cakes, Mexican wedding cookies, or simply Snowball Cookies, they’re the ultimate holiday and winter favorite—bringing a dusting of sweetness and fun to every cookie plate. Get ready to discover just how easy and magical it is to create your own batch of this classic delight!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Snowball Cookies really shines through their simplicity. Each ingredient has a job to do, contributing either tenderness, flavor, or that iconic snowy look. Let’s take a moment to appreciate what goes into each crumbly, sweet bite:

• Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): The foundation for a rich, tender cookie that practically melts on your tongue.
• Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup, plus more for rolling): Sweetens the dough while adding that cloudlike-finish outside.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses each cookie with a lovely aromatic warmth.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups): Forms the structure without becoming heavy or cakey.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just the right amount to balance all the sweetness and lift the nutty flavors.
• Finely Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (3/4 cup): The star texture and a gentle nutty crunch in every bite.
• Additional Powdered Sugar for Rolling: Ensures every cookie gets that magical, snowy coating.

How to Make Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Tools

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment is your best friend here, keeping cookies from sticking and making cleanup a breeze. Also, gather a large mixing bowl and an electric mixer—organization will make your life so much easier as you move from step to step!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Place your softened butter and half a cup of powdered sugar in the large mixing bowl. Beat them together on medium-high speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and almost mousse-like—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Creaming is essential for that irresistible, soft texture that defines great Snowball Cookies.

Step 3: Add Vanilla

Mix in the vanilla extract, ensuring it’s incorporated evenly. This little splash of vanilla is subtle but unmistakable, making each cookie taste distinctly homemade.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add your all-purpose flour and salt to the bowl. Mix on low speed just until the dough starts to come together. The key here is not to overmix—stop as soon as there are no more visible streaks of flour.

Step 5: Stir in the Nuts

Gently fold in your finely chopped pecans or walnuts using a spatula or wooden spoon. The nuts should be distributed evenly but be careful not to crush them—you want little nuggets of crunch in every cookie.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them gently between your palms to form smooth balls. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, giving each about an inch of space to allow for minimal spreading.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies for 12 to 14 minutes. Keep an eye out: you want just the bottoms to turn lightly golden. The tops should still look pale—this ensures the centers stay perfectly soft and tender once cooled.

Step 8: Powdered Sugar Magic

After removing from the oven, let the cookies cool on the tray for about 5 minutes—just enough so they won’t fall apart when handled but are still warm. Carefully roll each cookie in powdered sugar and transfer to a wire rack. Once they’re completely cool, give them a second roll through powdered sugar for that classic snowy finish every batch of Snowball Cookies is known for.

How to Serve Snowball Cookies

Garnishes

There’s nothing quite like the elegant simplicity of a snowy white cookie, but you can personalize your Snowball Cookies with a dusting of gold or silver luster dust, a sprinkle of edible glitter, or an extra pinch of finely chopped nuts on the plate for a pretty, festive touch. Served on a vibrant holiday-themed platter, their white coating truly shines!

Side Dishes

These cookies pair perfectly with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or even hot cocoa, making them a cozy treat for afternoon snacking or dessert. If you’re entertaining, arrange them alongside other classic holiday cookies—think gingerbread or shortbread—for a beautifully varied cookie tray everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

Snowball Cookies are wonderful for gifting! Place a dozen or so in a decorative tin lined with parchment paper, or fill glass jars and tie with ribbon for a rustic, personal touch. You can also stack them in cellophane bags or arrange in cupcake liners for individual servings—these little snowballs look irresistible no matter how you present them.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and melt-in-your-mouth tender for up to a week, making them a fantastic choice for make-ahead treats and unexpected guests.

Freezing

Snowball Cookies freeze beautifully! Arrange them in layers separated by parchment or wax paper in a freezer-safe tin or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, so you can bake in advance and thaw when you need a quick holiday fix.

Reheating

If you’d like to enjoy that just-baked flavor again, simply let the cookies thaw at room temperature. For an extra warm touch, pop them in a 250°F oven for a couple of minutes—just long enough to revive their aroma. Roll lightly in fresh powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut besides pecans or walnuts?

Absolutely! Almonds and hazelnuts work beautifully in Snowball Cookies, offering their own unique twist. Just be sure to chop whichever nut you choose very finely for the perfect texture.

Why do my cookies crumble or fall apart?

This can happen if the dough is too dry or if you try to handle the cookies when they are still piping hot from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly before rolling in sugar and always measure your flour carefully for best results.

Do Snowball Cookies taste very sweet?

They’re perfectly sweet but not cloying, thanks to the balance of powdered sugar and buttery dough. The nuts help cut through the sweetness, making these cookies richly satisfying rather than overly sugary.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute a good-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. The results are still tender and delicious—a lovely treat for everyone at the party!

Can I make Snowball Cookies ahead of time?

Yes! These cookies keep wonderfully in an airtight container for several days, and their flavor only improves as they sit. You can even freeze the dough balls and bake from frozen, just adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Final Thoughts

It’s impossible not to fall for the irresistible charm of Snowball Cookies. Whether you’re sharing them with friends, gifting them for the holidays, or sneaking one with your morning coffee, they’re simply delightful. Grab your apron, crank up your favorite tunes, and let these snowy little gems bring some magic to your kitchen!

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