Name: Snowball Cookies: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Holiday Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 49 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened for easier mixing); 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar (Reserve some for rolling); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure vanilla for best results); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Spoon and level for accuracy); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness); 1 cup Finely Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (Toast for deeper flavor)

As the first chill of winter settles in, I can’t help but crave the warmth and joy that comes with baking—especially when it involves Classic Nutty Snowball Cookies. These delightful morsels introduce a world of buttery sweetness, finely chopped nuts, and a generous dusting of powdered sugar that creates a snowy finish, perfect for the holiday season. The recipe is a breeze to whip up, making it an ideal choice for cozy get-togethers or to share with loved ones. Not only do these cookies evoke cherished holiday memories, but their melt-in-your-mouth texture is bound to win over even the pickiest of eaters. Ready to fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of these enchanting treats? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Snowball Cookies a Holiday Must?

Irresistible Flavor: These snowball cookies deliver a blissful blend of buttery sweetness and nutty crunch that will transport you straight to holiday nostalgia.

Quick and Easy: This recipe is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for spontaneous gatherings or cozy nights in front of the fireplace.

Versatile Delight: Feel free to switch up the nuts or add some chocolate chips for a delightful twist; the possibilities are endless!

Perfect for Sharing: Bring joy to friends and family by sharing these cookies at holiday parties or as heartfelt gifts.

Make Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare these in advance, saving you time during the bustling holiday season. For another scrumptious cookie recipe, check out these Winter Wonderland Cookies or Chocolate Meringue Cookies!

Snowball Cookies Ingredients

• To make the best Snowball Cookies, gather these essential ingredients:

For the Cookies

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture to cookies; ensure it’s softened for easier mixing.
Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and creates the signature sugary coating; reserve some for rolling.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor profile; use pure vanilla for the best results.
All-Purpose Flour – The main structure component; spoon and level for accuracy.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Finely Chopped Pecans or Walnuts – Provides nutty flavor and crunch; toasting the nuts brings out deeper flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C) while you prepare your baking sheet. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring easy cleanup after baking. This simple step sets the perfect stage for your delightful Snowball Cookies as they bake evenly, creating that desired melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream the mixture on medium speed for about 3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. You’ll see a lovely shine that indicates the butter and sugar are well integrated, ready to create a rich base for your cookies.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The dough should come together while still appearing slightly crumbly, which helps maintain that tender Snowball Cookie texture.

Step 4: Incorporate the Nuts
Gently fold in the finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed. The nuts will add that delightful crunch and nutty flavor characteristic of these Snowball Cookies. The dough should be cohesive but still soft—this is the perfect consistency we want for forming cookies.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using your hands, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place the balls about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet, allowing space for slight spreading as they bake. At this stage, you should see perfectly formed little orbs of dough ready for the oven’s embrace.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. Watch closely as the cookies bake; the bottoms will set and slightly turn golden while the tops remain pale. You want them to feel firm to the touch yet remain soft in the center—a sign of their delightful melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Step 7: Cool and Dust with Sugar
Once baked, remove the Snowball Cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to firm up slightly. Afterward, roll the warm cookies in a bowl of powdered sugar to create that signature snowy coating.

Step 8: Final Cooling
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, give them one last gentle dusting with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish. Now, your precious Snowball Cookies are ready to be shared or enjoyed, filling your kitchen with warmth and holiday cheer!

Make Ahead Options

These Snowball Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply shape the dough into balls and refrigerate them on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. This will help maintain their flavor and texture without losing that delightful buttery richness. If you wish to go even further, you can freeze the uncooked dough for up to 3 months. Just roll the cookie balls in powdered sugar just before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy these festive treats, bake them directly from the fridge or freezer—just add a minute or two to the baking time for perfectly fluffy cookies!

Snowball Cookies: Delightful Twists

Feel free to get creative with these delightful Snowball Cookies, transforming them to suit your tastes and preferences!

Nut Substitution: Switch out pecans for walnuts or hazelnuts for a delightful twist on flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
Chocolate Addition: Stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich, chocolatey indulgence that complements the nuts.
Coconut Infusion: Add unsweetened shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical kick that enhances the cookies’ texture.
Spiced Up: Mix in a teaspoon of spices like cinnamon or cardamom to bring warmth and depth to each bite.

These Snowball Cookies are so versatile! If you want more festive cookie ideas, don’t forget to check out these Winter Wonderland Cookies and Chocolate Meringue Cookies. Enjoy baking and sharing the joy!

How to Store and Freeze Snowball Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you wish to keep them a bit longer, refrigerate the cookies for up to a week. Just ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a parchment-lined container for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving and re-dust with powdered sugar for that fresh finish.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, there’s no need to bake again. Just let the cookies come to room temperature, and they’ll retain their melt-in-your-mouth goodness!

Expert Tips for Snowball Cookies

Chill for Control: If your cookies spread too much in the oven, chill the formed dough balls for 15 minutes before baking. This will help keep their shape.
Nut Variety: While pecans are traditional, feel free to use walnuts or even almonds for a unique twist on your Snowball Cookies. Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor!
Don’t Overmix: When combining the flour mixture with the creamed butter, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies that lose their melt-in-your-mouth charm.
Proper Cooling: After baking, let the cookies cool a bit on the baking sheet before rolling in powdered sugar. This allows the cookies to set while still warm, ensuring a better coating.
Re-Dust for Presentation: If freezing your cookies, re-dust them with powdered sugar after thawing for that fresh, snowy look when serving.

What to Serve with Classic Nutty Snowball Cookies

Indulge in the festive spirit by crafting a cozy, comforting meal to accompany these delightful treats.

Warm Black Tea: The gentle, soothing notes of black tea complement the sweetness of the cookies, making it a perfect pairing for a winter afternoon.
Rich Hot Chocolate: Creamy hot chocolate enhances the cookies’ nutty flavor, creating a delightful treat that’s reminiscent of childhood warmth.
Cinnamon-Spiced Latte: The aromatic spices in a cinnamon latte enhance the buttery richness of the cookies, offering an inviting warmth with every sip.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a luscious texture that contrasts beautifully with the delicate crunch of Snowball Cookies.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy pieces of seasonal fruit provide a refreshing balance to the rich cookies, making for a light and inviting dessert spread.
Ginger Snap Cookies: The spiciness of ginger snaps harmonizes well with the nutty sweetness of Snowball Cookies, inviting a flavorful holiday assortment on your dessert table.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy delights offer a different texture while still boasting that sweet, comforting essence, making them great companions on any cookie platter.
Almond Milk: Serve with a glass of almond milk to underline the nutty flavor of the cookies while keeping it smooth and refreshing.

Let these pairings elevate your Snowball Cookies into a delightful holiday feast that warms the heart and feeds the soul.

Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select nuts for my Snowball Cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing nuts for your Snowball Cookies, look for fresh, high-quality options. If using pecans or walnuts, ensure they are firm and free of dark spots, which indicate staleness. Toasting them lightly enhances their flavor, making your cookies even more delicious!

How should I store Snowball Cookies to keep them fresh?
To keep your Snowball Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like to enjoy them for a week, refrigerate them in a sealed container. Just make sure to keep them covered to prevent them from drying out!

Can I freeze Snowball Cookies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze Snowball Cookies! Here’s how: first, make sure they are completely cooled, then arrange them in a single layer on parchment paper in a container. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature and re-dust with powdered sugar for a lovely presentation.

What should I do if my Snowball Cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find your cookies are spreading too much, don’t worry! Chilling the formed dough balls for 15 minutes before baking can help maintain their shape. If your dough seems overly soft, adding a bit more flour may also provide the right consistency. Just be careful not to overmix!

Are Snowball Cookies safe for pets or people with nut allergies?
While Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat for humans, they’re not safe for pets. The nuts can pose a choking hazard or trigger allergies. If you have guests with nut allergies, consider making an alternative version without nuts, using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for that same lovely texture!

How can I enhance the flavor of my Snowball Cookies?
Want to take your Snowball Cookies up a notch? You can mix in ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom for a warm spice that perfectly complements the nutty flavor. Just remember, the more the merrier when it comes to exploring different flavors—get creative with your variations!