Classic Snowball Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie that’s deliciously simple yet delightfully irresistible, look no further than the Classic Snowball Cookies. These cookies are known for their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a delicate coating of powdered sugar that makes them look like little snowballs. Perfect for any occasion, from holiday parties to everyday treats, snowball cookies are easy to make with just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s dive into this classic recipe and learn how to make these delightful cookies step-by-step!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Snowball cookies are a crowd favorite for several reasons:

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive holiday gathering, a potluck, or a quiet evening at home, these cookies are always a hit.
• Easy to Make: With a simple list of ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginners can master this recipe.
• Deliciously Irresistible: The combination of buttery dough, crunchy pecans, and a sweet powdered sugar coating makes for a cookie that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients for Snowball Cookies

To make the perfect batch of snowball cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3/4 cup pecan halves or pieces
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

For Rolling

• Additional powdered sugar (about 1 cup)

this RECIPE

Substitutes and Variations

1. Almond-Free Version: If you’re allergic to almonds or prefer a different flavor, simply omit the almond extract and increase the vanilla extract to 1 teaspoon for a more classic taste.

2. Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to keep the cookies from crumbling.

3. Flavor Twists: Add a teaspoon of finely grated orange or lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy twist. You could also try adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced variation.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Prepping the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.

2. Mixing the Dough

Chop the pecans into small pieces using a food processor or a knife. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and chopped pecans. Stir well and set aside. In a separate large mixing bowl, add the softened butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer on medium speed to beat the mixture until it’s creamy and smooth, which should take a few minutes.

3. Shaping the Cookies

Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed butter mixture, about 1/2 cup at a time. Mix on low speed after each addition until all the flour is incorporated and no streaks of flour remain. The dough should be slightly crumbly but able to hold together when pressed.

Use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to scoop 1-inch balls of dough. Roll each portion in 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.

4. Baking to Perfection

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, as you want them to remain pale with just a hint of color.

5. Rolling in Powdered Sugar

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 4-5 minutes. While they are still slightly warm, roll each cookie in a bowl of powdered sugar. Transfer the coated cookies to a wire cooling rack to finish cooling completely. Once fully cooled, roll them in powdered sugar once more for an extra layer of sweetness and serve!

Tips for the Perfect Snowball Cookies

• Get the Right Texture: For a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, be sure to use softened butter at room temperature, not melted butter.
• Achieve a Uniform Shape: Rolling the dough in your hands will help create evenly shaped cookies that bake evenly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them light and tender.
• Skipping the Second Sugar Roll: Rolling the cookies twice in powdered sugar is key to achieving that classic snowy appearance and flavor.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Present these cookies on a festive plate or tiered stand to add a touch of elegance to your table. For a holiday theme, consider dusting the serving plate with a bit of extra powdered sugar to mimic a snowy landscape.

Storing and Freezing Snowball Cookies

• Storing: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Freezing: These cookies freeze well! Arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by sheets of parchment paper. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and re-roll in powdered sugar if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use different nuts? Yes, feel free to substitute the pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor.
• Why did my cookies crack? Cracking can occur if the dough is too cold or if the cookies are overbaked. Make sure your dough is soft and pliable and keep an eye on them while baking.
• How do I make them vegan? Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan powdered sugar.

Conclusion

There you have it – a simple yet delightful recipe for Classic Snowball Cookies. These buttery, nutty cookies are perfect for any occasion and are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family. For more delicious recipes and tips, be sure to subscribe to our blog!

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