If you adore cozy, buttery treats dusted in snowy powdered sugar, then the Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. These tender little cookies melt in your mouth and bring a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavor that’s absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving a classic dessert, this recipe’s simplicity and timeless taste will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe is simple yet essential, working together to create a cookie with perfectly crumbly texture and rich flavor. From the buttery softness to the nutty crunch and the sweet snowy coating, each element plays a special role in making this treat unforgettable.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives your cookies structure and tenderness.
- 2/3 cups pecans or walnuts finely chopped: These nuts add delightful crunch and a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the buttery notes.
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened: Creates the melt-in-your-mouth richness that defines snowball cookies.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings a lovely aromatic sweetness that lifts the entire cookie.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar plus extra for dusting: Sweetens the dough and gives that signature snowy finish to each cookie.
How to Make Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400° F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Having your baking setup ready is key to keeping everything moving smoothly once the dough is ready.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Combine the all-purpose flour, finely chopped pecans, and sea salt in a large bowl. Whisking these together ensures the nuts are evenly distributed and the salt is well mixed, which is crucial for balanced flavor throughout every cookie.
Step 3: Beat the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step builds the rich, velvety base that makes these cookies so irresistible.
Step 4: Combine to Form Dough
Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while continuing to mix on low speed. Mix just until everything is combined; overmixing can lead to tougher cookies instead of the perfect crumbly texture we’re after in this Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a small ice cream scoop or a spoon, portion the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each piece gently between your palms until smooth and round, then place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie to allow them to bake evenly.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Watch closely for the bottoms to turn just a light golden brown. This careful baking ensures the cookies remain tender with a subtly crisp edge.
Step 7: Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once the cookies have cooled enough to handle but are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar until they are fully coated. This final snowy dusting is what transforms these treats into the classic Pecan Snowball Cookies everyone loves.
How to Serve Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For extra charm, you can sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar right before serving or add a few whole pecans on the side to highlight the nutty flavor. A dash of cinnamon powder can also add a warm, spicy touch that complements the buttery sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, rich hot chocolate, or a classic glass of cold milk. They also make an excellent accompaniment to holiday tea parties or as a delightful finish to a cozy winter dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Try placing a few Pecan Snowball Cookies in a festive tin for gifting or stacking them on a pretty plate layered with doilies for a charming dessert table display. You can also sandwich them with a bit of homemade jam or chocolate spread for a fun twist on presentation and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their delicate texture. They should stay fresh and delicious for up to a week, perfect for enjoying as a quick snack anytime.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies after baking and cooling by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When stored properly, they keep well for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
If you want that fresh-baked warmth, pop the cookies in a warm oven at 300° F for just 5 minutes or microwave them for about 10 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, or they may lose their melt-in-your-mouth quality.
FAQs
Can I substitute walnuts for pecans in this recipe?
Absolutely! Walnuts are a perfect substitute and will provide a similar texture and flavor profile, so feel free to use whichever nut you prefer or have on hand for your Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe.
Why do the cookies need to be rolled in powdered sugar while still warm?
Rolling them while warm helps the powdered sugar stick better to the cookies, creating that beautiful snowy coating that defines these treats.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking flour blend, you can easily adapt this Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe to be gluten-free without sacrificing taste or texture.
How long will the cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh for up to one week, retaining that perfect balance of tender and crumbly.
Is it possible to add flavor variations?
Definitely! Adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a hint of orange zest to the dough can add a delightful twist while still honoring the classic spirit of the Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the simplicity and taste of the Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe that makes every bite a moment of comfort and joy. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or a casual afternoon treat, these cookies never fail to impress. I can’t wait for you to try them and share that warm, buttery happiness with everyone you love.
Print
Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pecan Snowball Cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth delights perfect for the holiday season. Made from simple ingredients including chopped pecans, powdered sugar, and vanilla, these cookies have a sweet, sugary flavor with a tender texture. Easy to prepare and bake, they make a classic holiday treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cups pecans or walnuts, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400° F (204° C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, finely chopped pecans or walnuts, and sea salt until well combined.
- Beat Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Create Dough: Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients bowl and beat on low speed just until everything is combined to form a soft dough.
- Form Cookies: Using a small ice cream scoop or tablespoon, scoop out 1-inch balls of dough. Roll each between your palms until they form smooth, round balls. Place them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes until the bottom edges are lightly browned, taking care not to overbake or burn them.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar: Allow the cookies to cool slightly until they can be handled, then roll each cookie in extra powdered sugar until fully coated for the characteristic snowball look and sweetness.
Notes
- Be careful not to overbake the cookies as they are best when soft and melt-in-the-mouth.
- You can use walnuts instead of pecans depending on your preference or availability.
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature to ensure easier mixing and a smoother dough.
- Storing the cookies in an airtight container will keep them fresh for up to one week.
- For a festive touch, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
