There’s something magical about snowball cookies. Imagine biting into a soft, buttery treat rolled in powdered sugar, leaving a sweet dusting on your fingertips. These delightful morsels are not just for the holidays; they’re perfect year-round and always evoke warm memories of family gatherings and cozy afternoons.
As you take that first bite, the rich flavors dance on your palate, while the texture crumbles delightfully in your mouth. Snowball cookies are my go-to when I need to whip up something quick yet impressive for friends and family. They bring smiles, laughter, and maybe even a little sugar rush—who can resist a cookie that looks like a snowball?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Snowball cookies are incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients
- Their melt-in-your-mouth texture leaves everyone asking for more
- The visual appeal of these snowy treats adds charm to any dessert table
- Versatile enough for any occasion, they can be customized with nuts or chocolate chips
I remember the first time I made snowball cookies. My kitchen was filled with laughter as my kids helped roll them in powdered sugar, resulting in more sugar on their faces than on the cookies.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter for an easy blend into the dough, enhancing that rich flavor.
Powdered Sugar: This is essential for both sweetness and that signature snowy finish on the cookies.
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our cookie base; sifting helps prevent lumps and creates a light texture.
Chopped Nuts (Walnuts or Pecans): These add a delightful crunch; choose fresh nuts for the best flavor.
Vanilla Extract: A splash elevates the flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla for optimal results.
Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures easy cleanup later and helps avoid sticking.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy—a process that takes about 3 minutes.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour along with 1/4 teaspoon of salt. The dough should become cohesive but still slightly crumbly; if needed, add a splash of vanilla extract during this step.
Incorporate Nuts: Gently fold in 1 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans. This adds great texture—be careful not to overmix if you want those crunchy bits throughout.
Scoop and Roll: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough into small balls (about 1 inch). Roll them between your palms until smooth—this part is fun!
Bake Until Golden: Place the balls onto prepared baking sheets and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until they turn lightly golden on the bottom but remain pale on top.
Cool and Dust with Sugar: Once out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly before rolling in powdered sugar while they’re still warm. Let them cool completely on wire racks for an extra touch before serving.
Now you’re ready to indulge! These snowball cookies are not just treats; they are little hugs that can brighten anyone’s day!
You Must Know
- Snowball cookies are delightful little bites that melt in your mouth
- Their buttery flavor and soft texture make them a family favorite
- Plus, they’re easy to whip up for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to just satisfying a sweet tooth
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the ultimate snowball cookies, start by creaming butter and sugar until fluffy. Then mix in the nuts and flour. Finally, roll the dough into balls and bake until lightly golden.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these snowball cookies! Swap out pecans for walnuts or add a splash of vanilla for an extra flavor kick. You can also dust them with cocoa powder instead of powdered sugar for a chocolate twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store your snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. No need to reheat; enjoy them straight from the freezer!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To get the perfect texture, ensure your butter is softened but not melted
- Chilling the dough briefly helps maintain shape during baking
- Lastly, roll the hot cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still warm for better coating
Creating snowball cookies always brings back memories of holiday baking with my grandma. Her laughter filled the kitchen as we rolled dough together, making each cookie a mini masterpiece.
FAQ
What are snowball cookies?
Snowball cookies are buttery, nut-filled treats rolled in powdered sugar that resemble little snowballs.
Can I make snowball cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend for delicious gluten-free treats.
How long do snowball cookies last?
Stored properly, snowball cookies can last up to one week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.
Snowball Cookies
Snowball cookies are delightful, buttery treats rolled in powdered sugar, resembling little snowballs. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfect for any occasion, bringing joy and nostalgia to family gatherings. Simple to make with just a handful of ingredients, they promise smiles with every bite. Customize them with nuts or chocolate chips for a personal touch!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream together butter and powdered sugar until fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until the dough is cohesive but crumbly.
- Fold in chopped nuts.
- Scoop dough into 1-inch balls and roll smooth.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden on the bottom.
- Cool slightly before rolling in powdered sugar while warm; let cool completely on wire racks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (15g)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
