There’s something truly magical about the holiday season, and for me, that magic often comes in the form of snowball cookies. These little buttery, nutty treats are not just a dessert; they’re a delightful experience! I remember the first time I made them with my grandmother, her laughter filling the kitchen as we rolled the cookies in powdered sugar. The sweet aroma of baked goodness wafting through the air always brings back warm memories. Trust me, the joy of biting into a soft, melt-in-your-mouth snowball cookie is unbeatable. They’re the perfect addition to any holiday gathering, and I can’t wait for you to try making them yourself!
Ingredients for Snowball Cookies
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these delightful snowball cookies! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – This is the heart of the cookie, giving it that rich, buttery flavor we all love.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar – This sweetens the dough and adds to the powdery finish after baking.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of the cookie, providing structure and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) – These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Feel free to choose your favorite!
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor profile and adds warmth to each bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
- Extra powdered sugar for coating – This is what gives the cookies their signature snowy appearance and a sweet finish!
Having these ingredients ready will set you up for success in making these irresistible holiday treats!
How to Prepare Snowball Cookies
Getting these snowball cookies just right is a delightful process, and I’m here to walk you through it step-by-step! Let’s make sure each bite is as buttery and nutty as it can be!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because starting with a hot oven ensures even baking and helps those cookies puff up just right. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine your softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar. Now, grab your mixer and cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale and airy. This step is crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth texture!
Mix in Vanilla and Dry Ingredients
Next, add in the vanilla extract and mix it well. Then, gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and salt. Don’t rush this part—mix just until everything is combined and you can see a dough forming. Overmixing can make your cookies tough, and we definitely don’t want that!
Add Chopped Nuts
Now it’s time to stir in those deliciously finely chopped nuts. Whether you choose pecans or walnuts, this is where the texture and flavor really come alive! Gently fold them into the dough until they’re evenly distributed. You’ll love the crunch they add!
Form and Shape Cookies
Using your hands, form the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each cookie so they have room to spread. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Baking and Coating
Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and let them bake for 10-12 minutes. You want them to be lightly golden, but don’t let them get too dark! Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for just a few minutes. Then, while they’re still warm, roll each cookie in some extra powdered sugar for that signature snowy finish. It’s the best part!
Tips for Success with Snowball Cookies
To really nail these delightful snowball cookies, I’ve got some handy tips that’ll make your baking experience smoother and your cookies even more delicious!
- Adjust the Nut Amounts: Feel free to play with the amount of finely chopped nuts to suit your taste! If you’re a nut lover like me, you might want to go for a bit more than a cup. Just remember, too many can affect the dough consistency, so find that perfect balance!
- Chill the Dough: If you find your dough is a bit too soft to shape easily, pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll into those perfect little balls without sticking to your hands.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake! They should be lightly golden but not browned. Remember, they’ll continue to cook a bit after you take them out, so it’s better to err on the side of underbaking.
- Uniform Size: Try to make your cookie balls as uniform in size as possible. This ensures they bake evenly. I like to use a cookie scoop for perfect portions every time!
- Powdered Sugar Coating: Roll them in powdered sugar while they’re still warm for the best adherence. You can even dust them again just before serving for that extra snowy look!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making the most scrumptious snowball cookies that everyone will rave about!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your snowball cookies can help you enjoy them even more! Here’s a quick rundown of the estimated nutritional data per cookie, based on average ingredients:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 2g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But no matter the numbers, the joy of indulging in a delicious snowball cookie is always worth it!
FAQ About Snowball Cookies
If you’ve got questions about making snowball cookies, you’re in the right place! Here are some answers to common queries that can help you bake these delightful treats with confidence.
Can I make these cookies in advance?
Absolutely! Snowball cookies are perfect for making ahead of time. You can bake them and store them in an airtight container for up to a week. If you want to make them even earlier, feel free to freeze the unbaked dough! Just shape the balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to a month. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them straight into the oven—no need to thaw!
What nuts can I use?
You can use a variety of nuts for these cookies! Pecans and walnuts are my personal favorites because they add such a wonderful flavor and texture. But if you want to switch it up, feel free to try almonds, hazelnuts, or even macadamia nuts! Just make sure to chop them finely so they mix well into the dough. And if you have nut allergies, you can leave them out altogether for a simple, buttery cookie!
How do I store leftover cookies?
To keep your leftover snowball cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can also freeze them! Just layer them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy, and maybe give them a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven look!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oh my goodness, where do I even start with why you’ll fall head over heels for these snowball cookies? First off, they’re incredibly quick to whip up! You can have a batch of these delightful treats ready in just over half an hour, which is perfect for those last-minute holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. Plus, the taste is simply out of this world! Each bite melts in your mouth, with that buttery richness beautifully complemented by the nutty crunch. And let’s not forget about their stunning appearance—those snowy white cookies dusted in powdered sugar are like little bites of winter wonderland!
They’re not just great for indulging yourself, though. These cookies are fantastic for sharing, making them a wonderful gift for friends, family, or neighbors during the festive season. Trust me, when you show up with a plate of snowball cookies, you’re bound to spread some serious holiday cheer. So, grab your apron, and let’s create some magic in the kitchen together!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your delightful snowball cookies, pairing them with the right beverages can take your experience to a whole new level! Here are some of my favorite suggestions:
- Coffee: A warm cup of freshly brewed coffee is the perfect companion to these buttery treats. The rich, bold flavors of the coffee complement the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
- Tea: Whether you prefer a soothing chamomile or a robust black tea, a nice cup of tea pairs wonderfully with snowball cookies. The warmth of the tea enhances the melt-in-your-mouth texture of the cookies.
- Hot Chocolate: For a truly indulgent treat, serve your snowball cookies with a mug of rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream. It’s like a cozy hug in a cup!
- Milk: You can’t go wrong with the classic pairing of milk and cookies! A cold glass of milk is an all-time favorite that balances the sweetness of the snowball cookies perfectly.
- Other Desserts: If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving them alongside mini cheesecakes or fruit tarts for a delightful dessert spread. The contrast of flavors and textures will wow your guests!
These pairings will make your snowball cookies even more enjoyable, whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just treating yourself on a cozy evening at home. Happy indulging!
Print
Snowball Cookies: 7 Secrets to Perfectly Buttery Bliss
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Snowball cookies are buttery, nutty treats rolled in powdered sugar.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Extra powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar together.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined.
- Stir in the chopped nuts.
- Form the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Let cool slightly, then roll in powdered sugar.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- These cookies can be made ahead of time.
- Adjust the amount of nuts according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: snowball cookies, butter cookies, holiday treats
