Snowball Cookies Recipe: Buttery, Nutty, and Dusted with Powdered Sugar
These Snowball Cookies are a holiday classic that melt in your mouth with every bite. Made with buttery dough, finely chopped nuts, and coated in powdered sugar, they’re simple yet irresistible. Whether you know them as Mexican Wedding Cookies, Russian Tea Cakes, or just snowy little bites of joy, they’re perfect for Christmas cookie tins or year-round treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans (or walnuts/almonds)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour and salt, then stir in the chopped nuts until dough comes together.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until bottoms are lightly golden (tops should remain pale).
- Roll in Sugar: Let cookies cool for 5 minutes, then roll warm cookies in powdered sugar. Once fully cooled, roll again for a snowy coating.
Pro Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies
- Make sure butter is softened but not melted for the right texture.
- Finely chop nuts so they blend smoothly into the dough.
- Double-coating in powdered sugar makes them extra snowy and sweet.
- Store in an airtight container—they stay fresh for up to 1 week.
Variations
- Swap pecans with almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor.
- Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm holiday twist.
- Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for an indulgent touch.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze snowball cookies?
Yes! Freeze baked cookies (without the sugar coating) for up to 2 months. Thaw, then roll in powdered sugar before serving.
Q: Do I need nuts for this recipe?
Traditionally yes, but you can leave them out or replace with finely shredded coconut.
Q: Why are my snowball cookies dry or crumbly?
This usually happens if there’s too much flour. Be sure to measure flour properly by spooning and leveling.
Enjoy Your Homemade Snowball Cookies!
Buttery, nutty, and perfectly sweet, these Snowball Cookies are a timeless treat. Whether you’re baking them for Christmas, weddings, or just a cozy afternoon snack, they’ll always bring a smile.