Oh my goodness, let me tell you about snowball cookies! These little delights are not just your ordinary cookies; they’re a classic treat that brings a festive spirit to any occasion. I remember making them with my grandma every holiday season, and they always filled our home with the most irresistible buttery aroma. What I love most about snowball cookies is how easy they are to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create these melt-in-your-mouth treats that are rolled in powdered sugar, making them look like little snowballs! Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to make them year-round!
Ingredients for Snowball Cookies
To make the most delicious snowball cookies, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. It should be soft enough to leave an indentation when you press it gently.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: This will add just the right amount of sweetness to balance the rich butter.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of your cookies, giving them that delightful texture.
- 1 cup chopped nuts: I love using walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch, but feel free to experiment with your favorite nut!
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the buttery goodness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A little salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling): This is what gives the cookies their signature snowy look! Make sure to roll them while they’re still warm for the best coating.
How to Prepare Snowball Cookies
Now, let’s get down to the fun part—making those delightful snowball cookies! I promise, it’s super simple, and the results are oh-so-rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a tray full of buttery, powdered sugar-coated goodness in no time!
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies will bake evenly and get that lovely golden color.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. I usually use an electric mixer for this, but a good old-fashioned whisk works too! Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add vanilla: Pour in the vanilla extract and mix well. This is where the magic starts to happen, and your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Mix in the dry ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture. I like to do this in batches to avoid a flour explosion! Mix until everything is just combined—don’t overdo it!
- Fold in the nuts: Gently fold in the chopped nuts using a spatula. This step adds that delightful crunch that makes these cookies so special.
- Shape the dough: Using your hands, form the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. I like to make them uniform so they bake evenly, but don’t stress too much about it!
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
- Bake: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden on the bottom. Keep an eye on them; you don’t want to overbake!
- Cool and roll: Once baked, let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. This makes them easier to handle. Then, while they’re still warm, roll them in the powdered sugar until they’re nicely coated. Wow, they’ll look just like little snowballs!
- Final cooling: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This step is crucial for the perfect texture!
And there you have it! A simple process that results in the most delicious snowball cookies, perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to sneak a few right off the tray—trust me, you won’t be able to resist!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have these cookies ready to bake in no time!
- Delightfully Buttery: The rich, buttery flavor just melts in your mouth, making each bite an absolute treat.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon snack, snowball cookies fit right in!
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the nuts or add a dash of chocolate chips—get creative with your flavors!
- Great for Sharing: These cookies are perfect for gifting, and they look so adorable rolled in powdered sugar!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dough ahead of time, freeze it, and bake fresh cookies whenever you want!
- Kid-Friendly: These cookies are simple enough for little hands to help with, making baking a fun family activity!
Tips for Success
Alright, my fellow cookie enthusiasts! Here are some of my top tips to ensure your snowball cookies turn out absolutely perfect every time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will elevate your baking game!
- Dough Consistency: You want your dough to be soft but not sticky. If it feels too wet, just sprinkle in a little extra flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it holds together nicely. It should be moldable into those cute little balls!
- Baking Times: Ovens can be tricky, so keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake. Aim for a light golden color on the bottoms; if they’re too pale, they might be underbaked, but if they’re too dark, you may have gone too far! Usually, 15-20 minutes does the trick.
- Rolling in Powdered Sugar: Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still warm for the best coverage. You’ll get that beautiful snowy look! Don’t be shy—give them a good roll! You can always give them a second coating once they’re cooled for that extra sweetness.
- Cooling Time: Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for just a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This little pause helps them firm up a bit, making them easier to handle without crumbling.
- Experiment with Nuts: While I love walnuts and pecans, don’t hesitate to try different nuts like almonds or even hazelnuts! Each nut brings its own unique flavor and texture to the cookies.
- Batch Size: If you’re baking for a crowd, double the recipe! These cookies disappear quickly, and you’ll want to have plenty on hand to share (or keep for yourself, no judgment here!).
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a snowball cookie pro in no time! Happy baking, and remember, the best part is enjoying them fresh out of the oven with a cup of tea or coffee!
Variations of Snowball Cookies
Now here’s where the fun really begins! While the classic snowball cookies are absolutely delicious on their own, don’t be afraid to get a little creative in the kitchen. Here are some of my favorite variations that will add a twist to your baking adventure!
- Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful surprise in every bite! The combination of chocolate and buttery goodness is simply irresistible.
- Nutty Variations: Switch up the nuts! Instead of just walnuts or pecans, try using almonds, hazelnuts, or even macadamia nuts for a unique flavor and texture.
- Coconut Snowballs: Mix in some shredded coconut for a tropical twist. You’ll get a lovely chewiness that pairs beautifully with the buttery base.
- Spiced Snowball Cookies: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for the holidays. It adds a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!
- Almond Extract: Instead of vanilla extract, try using almond extract for a different take. It brings a lovely nutty flavor that complements the chopped nuts beautifully.
- Matcha Snowballs: For a fun green twist, incorporate a teaspoon of matcha powder into the dough. Not only does it add a vibrant color, but it also gives a subtle earthy flavor that’s quite unique!
So go ahead and experiment! The beauty of snowball cookies is that they’re versatile and can be tailored to your taste. Mix and match flavors, and who knows, you might just create your new favorite cookie combination. Happy baking, and enjoy the delicious journey of creating your own unique snowball cookies!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve made these delightful snowball cookies and enjoyed them (because let’s be honest, it’s hard to resist!), you’ll want to know how to store the leftovers properly. Trust me, these cookies are just as good the next day—if they last that long!
- Storing: Keep your snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their soft texture and keep them from drying out. They should stay fresh for about a week, but I bet they won’t last that long!
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, snowball cookies freeze beautifully! Just let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours.
- Reheating: While these cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, if you want to warm them up a bit, pop them in the microwave for just 10-15 seconds. This will make them soft and slightly melty, just like they’re fresh out of the oven!
With these storage tips, you can savor your snowball cookies over several days—or even weeks if you manage to keep them around that long! Enjoy every sweet moment, whether they’re fresh or from the freezer!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these delightful snowball cookies! While I believe that the joy of baking and enjoying treats like these far outweighs counting calories, it’s always good to have an idea of what you’re indulging in. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect from one of these buttery delights:
- Calories: Approximately 100 per cookie
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 1g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But hey, it’s all about balance, right? Enjoy these cookies guilt-free, knowing they are made with love and shared with joy!
FAQ Section
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While butter gives snowball cookies their rich flavor, you can use margarine in a pinch. Just make sure it’s unsalted and softened, similar to how you would prepare the butter.
What nuts can I use in these cookies?
You can get creative with the nuts! Walnuts and pecans are classic choices, but feel free to experiment with almonds, hazelnuts, or even pistachios. Each nut will give your snowball cookies a unique twist!
Can I skip the powdered sugar rolling?
You could skip rolling them in powdered sugar, but it’s such a delightful part of the snowball cookie experience! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could dust them with a little cocoa powder or simply enjoy them as they are.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Keep an eye on them! They should be lightly golden on the bottoms after about 15-20 minutes. If they’re too pale, they might be underbaked, but if they look dark, you’ve gone a bit too far. Trust your nose and eyes!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, shape the dough into balls and then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer—no need to thaw!
What should I serve with snowball cookies?
Snowball cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or tea. They also make a fantastic addition to any holiday dessert platter alongside other treats. Trust me, they’re bound to be a hit!
How long do leftover cookies last?
If you manage to have any leftovers (which is often a challenge!), store your snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. They’ll stay soft and delicious, ready for snacking whenever you need a sweet treat!
Snowball Cookies 2: Discover 7 Irresistibly Buttery Tips
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Snowball cookies are a classic treat made with butter, sugar, and nuts, rolled in powdered sugar.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined.
- Fold in the chopped nuts.
- Form the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool slightly, then roll them in powdered sugar.
- Allow to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They can be made ahead of time and freeze well.
- Experiment with different nuts for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: snowball cookies, cookies, dessert, holiday treats
