Classic Snowball Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for the perfect holiday cookie recipe that’s simple, buttery, and melts in your mouth, look no further than Classic Snowball Cookies. These bite-sized, sugar-dusted treats are loved for their soft texture and nutty flavor, making them a must-have during the festive season. Whether you know them as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, Snowball Cookies are a timeless dessert that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

What Are Snowball Cookies?

Snowball Cookies are a type of shortbread cookie, traditionally made with butter, nuts, and powdered sugar. They’re often associated with holiday celebrations, but their charm extends beyond just winter gatherings. Known for their crumbly texture and signature coating of powdered sugar, these cookies are enjoyed all over the world with different names and slight variations in ingredients. Regardless of where you find them, their delicate taste and simple ingredients make them universally adored.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at the ingredients needed for these delicious Snowball Cookies:

• 3/4 cup pecan halves or pieces: Pecans add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture. They can also be swapped for other nuts like walnuts or almonds.
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cookies, helping them hold their shape.
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature): Butter is key for a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
• 1/2 tsp almond extract: Enhances the nutty notes of the pecans and adds a subtle depth of flavor.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: This is used in the dough for sweetness and ensures the cookies have a smooth texture.
• For rolling: additional powdered sugar (about a cup or so): The signature snow-like coating!

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Classic Snowball Cookies

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make for easy cleanup later.

2. Chop the Pecans

Using a food processor or a sharp knife, chop the pecans until they’re finely ground. The small bits of pecans will mix evenly throughout the dough, giving every bite a perfect nutty crunch.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and chopped pecans. Stir these dry ingredients together and set the bowl aside.

4. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with a hand mixer. Beat on medium speed for a few minutes until the mixture is creamy and smooth.

5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture from Step 3 into the creamed butter mixture. Add about 1/2 cup at a time, mixing well on low speed after each addition. Continue until the flour is fully incorporated and there are no visible flour streaks.

6. Form the Cookie Dough Balls

Using a cookie scoop, scoop out approximately 1-inch balls of dough. Roll each scoop between your hands to form smooth, even balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving at least 1 inch of space between each one.

7. Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies should remain pale.

8. Roll in Powdered Sugar

Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 4-5 minutes. While still warm, roll each cookie in a bowl of additional powdered sugar until fully coated. Transfer the cookies to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.

9. Double Coating

For the classic “snowball” effect, once the cookies are completely cooled, roll them again in powdered sugar. This extra coating gives them that characteristic snowy, sweet finish.

Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies

• Chill the dough: If the dough feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape better during baking.
• Even sizing: Using a cookie scoop ensures that all your cookies are the same size, helping them bake evenly.
• Don’t skip the double roll: Rolling the cookies twice in powdered sugar not only makes them look beautiful but also adds to their sweetness.

Variations and Substitutions

• Nut Variations: While pecans are the traditional choice, you can easily substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor.
• Flavor Add-ins: For an extra twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. You can also mix in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise!
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the cookies gluten-free.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet: A heavy-duty baking sheet ensures even baking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents the cookies from sticking and makes clean-up easier.
• Food processor or knife: To finely chop the pecans.
• Hand mixer: For creaming the butter and sugar.
• Wire cooling rack: To cool the cookies evenly after baking.
• Cookie scoop: Helps to form perfectly sized cookie dough balls.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Snowball Cookies make a beautiful presentation for holiday gatherings or as gifts. Consider placing them in festive tins or clear bags tied with a ribbon. You can also serve them on a decorative plate, dusted with extra powdered sugar for a wintery touch.

Storing Snowball Cookies

To keep your Snowball Cookies fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: These cookies freeze exceptionally well. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, let them thaw at room temperature, and roll them in fresh powdered sugar if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes! You can freeze the dough balls before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, pop them straight into the oven (you may need to add an extra minute or two to the baking time).

2. How long will these cookies stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container, Snowball Cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature. You can extend their freshness by storing them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

3. Why do my cookies crumble?

Snowball Cookies are naturally crumbly due to their shortbread-like texture. However, if your dough is too dry, it may crumble excessively. Ensure that your butter is fully softened, and don’t overwork the dough.

Classic Snowball Cookies Recipe Tips

• Make-ahead: You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
• Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free flour mix to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Baking time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake—these are meant to be lightly golden, not browned!

Conclusion

These Classic Snowball Cookies are the perfect blend of simplicity and festive flair. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet powdered sugar coating, they’re sure to become a favorite for your holiday baking. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, gifting them to loved ones, or simply enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies never disappoint.

Ready to bake? Try out this recipe and let us know how it turns out. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious treats!

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