Irresistibly Easy Snowball Cookie Recipe for Holiday Bliss

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house during the holiday season. As the days become shorter and the nights cozier, I find myself daydreaming of the delightful treats that bring warmth to our gatherings. One such cherished recipe is the snowball cookie recipe—a delightful confection that’s not only a feast for the senses but also an absolute crowd-pleaser. These little gems, sneaking in appearances as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, are enchanting with their buttery richness and a nutty twist from finely chopped pecans.

What I adore about this simple recipe is its incredible versatility; you can easily swap in walnuts for a flavor twist or sprinkle in some crushed peppermint candy canes for that festive sparkle. Plus, they come together quickly, so you won't spend all day in the kitchen! Are you ready to wonder how something so easy can yield such heavenly, melt-in-your-mouth wonders? Let’s dive into the irresistible world of snowball cookies!

Why is this snowball cookie recipe a must-try?

Irresistible flavor with a nutty twist: The combination of buttery richness and finely chopped pecans creates a scrumptious treat.
Super simple instructions: These festive cookies come together in a snap, perfect for any skill level.
Endless variations: Whether you prefer walnuts or want to get creative with crushed peppermint candy canes, this recipe is adaptable.
Perfect for sharing: With their delightful appearance and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are sure to impress at holiday gatherings.
Make ahead: You can prepare and freeze the cookie dough beforehand, ensuring your holiday baking is a breeze! Check out our edible cookie dough recipe for another fun twist on a classic treat!

Snowball Cookie Recipe Ingredients

• Here’s everything you’ll need!

For the Dough
• Unsalted Butter – This provides richness and structure; make sure it's softened for easy mixing.
• Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and is crucial for both the dough and coating.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor and adds a delightful aroma to the cookies.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives the cookies their structure, so don’t skip it!
• Very Finely Chopped Pecans – Adds a nutty flavor and texture; walnuts can be substituted if desired.
• Salt – Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

For the Coating
• Powdered Sugar (for coating) – The final sprinkling of sweetness; consider adding crushed peppermint candy canes for a festive twist!

Everything you need for this snowball cookie recipe comes together beautifully in just a few simple steps, and trust me, you won’t be able to stop at one!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic Buttery Snowball Cookies

Step 1
Begin by gathering all your ingredients on the counter to ensure a smooth baking process. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it's ready when your cookie dough is formed. This quick step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture, allowing the snowball cookies to bake evenly and melt-in-your-mouth as intended.

Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on medium speed and beat until the mixture is smooth and light, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. The butter should be pale and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma.

Step 3
Slowly incorporate 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of very finely chopped pecans, and a pinch of salt into the creamed mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold these ingredients until they are fully combined and form a soft, cohesive dough. The dough should be slightly sticky and hold its shape, making it perfect for rolling.

Step 4
With clean hands, take portions of dough and roll them into walnut-sized balls. Place these balls about 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets, as they will spread slightly while baking. This step should yield about 24 cookies, ensuring they have enough space to expand without touching.

Step 5
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they should be light golden brown on the bottoms, while the tops remain pale and tender. Undercooking is key, so if they look slightly underbaked, that's ideal; they will set as they cool.

Step 6
Once baked, carefully remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheets for a couple of minutes. This brief cooling time allows them to firm up slightly. Then, transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely, which helps maintain their soft texture.

Step 7
While the cookies are still warm, take a shallow bowl and add ⅓ cup of powdered sugar. Roll each warm snowball cookie in the sugar to coat it generously, allowing the warmth to help the sugar stick. Return the coated cookies to the wire racks to cool completely before proceeding to the next step.

Step 8
After the cookies have cooled down entirely, roll them once more in the powdered sugar for a final coating. This second layer not only enhances their sweetness but also gives them that classic snowy appearance. Now your classic buttery snowball cookies are ready to dazzle your friends and family!

Make Ahead Options

These snowball cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply roll the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and refrigerate the unbaked cookies. For even longer storage, freeze the dough for up to 2 months—just make sure to seal it tightly in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you're ready to bake, you can pop the frozen balls directly into the oven without thawing; just add an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll have these delightful snowball cookie treats on hand whenever the craving strikes!

Expert Tips for the Best Snowball Cookie Recipe

Undercooking Trick: Aim for slightly undercooked cookies instead of overbaking. This ensures that they remain soft and melt-in-your-mouth delightful.
Festive Twist: To elevate your snowball cookie recipe, add crushed peppermint candy canes to the powdered sugar for a holiday flair.
Nut Substitution: If you don’t have pecans on hand, use walnuts instead for a different nutty flavor, but finely chop them to maintain the texture.
Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is slightly sticky before rolling. If it’s too dry, it may crumble, making it hard to achieve that perfect shape.
Coating Process: When rolling in powdered sugar, do it while the cookies are still warm for optimal adherence, and don’t skip the second coating after cooling for added sweetness!

How to Store and Freeze Snowball Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful texture.

Fridge: If you'd like to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating the snowball cookies. They can last up to 2 weeks in a sealed container.

Freezer: Freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper.

Dough Freezing: For easy baking later, freeze the cookie dough before baking. Simply roll into balls and freeze; then coat them in powdered sugar after baking for a fresh treat!

Snowball Cookie Recipe Variations

Dive into the delicious realm of customization with these delightful twists that will make your snowball cookies even more special!

Nut Substitution: Swap pecans with walnuts for a different nutty flavor profile. The distinct taste of walnuts adds an earthy richness to the cookies. Alternatively, you can skip nuts altogether for a nut-free version.
Chocolate Surprise: Incorporate Hershey Kisses or Rolo caramels into the dough for a gooey, sweet surprise in every bite. This addition makes them extra indulgent and enjoyable for chocolate lovers.
Festive Peppermint: Add crushed peppermint candy canes to the powdered sugar coating for a festive and refreshing crunch. It not only looks pretty but also gives a cheerful pop of flavor for holiday gatherings.
Coconut Twist: Mix in shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical flair. It enhances texture, making your cookies an unexpected delight during the holiday season.
Spiced Variation: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for warm, comforting spices. This twist adds a layer of cozy flavor perfect for cold winter days.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum for the right texture!
Fruit Infusion: Add finely chopped dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a sweet and chewy element. This not only enhances flavor but also makes the cookies look festive!
Additional Coatings: Instead of just powdered sugar, toss the cookies in a mixture of powdered sugar and cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey finish. This clever mix will delight every chocolate lover at the party.

What to Serve with Snowball Cookies?

Indulging in buttery snowball cookies creates the perfect occasion for building a joyful holiday spread.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: Rich and velvety, hot chocolate pairs beautifully with snowball cookies, enhancing their sweet flavors.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai contrast the cookies' sweetness, creating a comforting and aromatic beverage choice.
Festive Fruit Salad: A mix of citrus and berries adds a refreshing, zesty touch that balances the richness of the snowball cookies and brings a burst of color to your table.
Eggnog: This classic holiday drink complements the buttery richness of the cookies while adding a festive flair to your gathering.
Gingerbread Men: The spiced notes of gingerbread can add warmth to your dessert table, matching the snowball cookies’ melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Peppermint Bark: Enhance the festive spirit by incorporating peppermint bark; its crunchy texture and minty taste will elevate your cookie experience.

Pairing cuddly beverages and other delightful treats will create a cozy atmosphere, making your holiday gatherings truly unforgettable!

Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my pecans are fresh enough for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting pecans, look for ones that are firm and have a rich, nutty aroma. Avoid any nuts that have dark spots or a rancid smell, as these can indicate spoilage. Fresh pecans will enhance the flavor of your snowball cookie recipe significantly.

What’s the best way to store leftover snowball cookies?
Very simple! Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’d like, you can place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. This keeps them soft and prevents any unwanted texture changes.

Can I freeze snowball cookies? If so, how?
Definitely! You can freeze baked snowball cookies for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container and separate layers with parchment paper. If you prefer, freeze the cookie dough before baking. Just roll the dough into balls, freeze them, and then coat in powdered sugar after baking for that fresh-baked taste!

What should I do if my dough is too dry?
If your dough is too dry and crumbly, don’t worry! Add a teaspoon of softened butter at a time and mix it in gently until you achieve the desired consistency. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable for rolling. This ensures your cookies will have that delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Are snowball cookies safe for pets or those with nut allergies?
It’s important to note that snowball cookies contain nuts, which can pose a risk to pets and people with nut allergies. Always check with guests about allergies before serving. If you’d like to create a nut-free version, consider using sunflower seeds or a nut-free flour blend in the dough instead.

Can I use margarine instead of butter for this recipe?
Using margarine can alter the texture and flavor of the cookies, but it's possible if absolutely necessary. Ensure it's a high-quality margarine with a similar fat content to butter for the best results. Keep in mind that the cookies might not have the same richness you’d get from unsalted butter.

Aria West