Snowball cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any holiday gathering. These buttery, nutty, and powdered sugar-coated cookies are a festive favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie, this easy recipe will guide you to make the most irresistible snowball cookies.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delicious cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work best)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined. Stir in the chopped nuts. The dough will be slightly crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
- Shape the cookies: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake.
- Cool slightly: Allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet.
- Coat in powdered sugar: While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar, ensuring they are fully coated. Place on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Second sugar coating: Once the cookies have cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for a perfect snowy finish.
Serving
This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies. Perfect for sharing or keeping as a sweet holiday indulgence!
Helpful Notes
- Nut substitutions: You can use almonds, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts instead of walnuts or pecans.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
- Make it festive: Add a dash of food-safe glitter to the powdered sugar for an extra magical touch.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
Snowball cookies are not only delicious but also super simple to make. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and festive appearance make them a staple during the holidays. Give this recipe a try, and watch them disappear from the cookie plate in no time!
Would you try this recipe? Let us know how yours turn out!
