Few cookies evoke holiday nostalgia quite like snowball cookies. These little bites of buttery goodness, coated in powdered sugar, resemble tiny snowballs, making them as charming to look at as they are to eat. The Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies recipe brings together rich butter, tender flour, and nutty pecans to create a melt-in-your-mouth cookie that’s perfect for festive occasions—or anytime you crave a sweet, comforting treat.
I remember first making these cookies with my grandmother during the holidays. The aroma of roasted pecans and vanilla filled the kitchen, and by the time we dusted the cookies with powdered sugar, they disappeared almost as quickly as we could plate them. Their crumbly yet tender texture, combined with the sweet coating, makes each bite unforgettable. These cookies are simple to make, require minimal ingredients, and are versatile enough to swap nuts or add extra flavorings if desired.
Whether you’re gifting them, serving them at a party, or enjoying a cozy tea-time snack, these pecan snowball cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles to anyone lucky enough to taste them.
Recipe Overview
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are tender, crumbly cookies made with buttery dough and finely chopped pecans, baked to light golden perfection, and coated in powdered sugar for a delicate, snow-like finish. They’re simple to prepare, no chilling required, and perfect for holiday trays, cookie swaps, or as an everyday indulgence.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s the complete list of ingredients and step-by-step instructions to make these classic cookies perfectly every time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (confectioner’s sugar)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup pecans (or walnuts), finely chopped
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and ½ cup powdered sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aerates the dough, giving the cookies their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
3. Mix in Remaining Ingredients
Add salt and vanilla extract to the creamed butter. Gradually mix in the flour at low speed until just combined—overmixing can make the cookies tough. Fold in the finely chopped pecans by hand to ensure even distribution without overworking the dough.
Tip: Toasting the pecans lightly in a dry pan for a few minutes can enhance their flavor and add a subtle crunch.
4. Shape the Cookies
Using a 1-tablespoon scoop, portion the dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart to allow for minimal spreading.
5. Bake
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Snowball cookies should not brown too much—slight coloring indicates perfect doneness.
6. First Sugar Coating
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then gently roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. This first coating begins the snowball effect and adds sweetness to the exterior.
7. Final Cooling and Sugar Dusting
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once fully cooled, roll them again in powdered sugar for a thick, snowy coating. This double-dusting ensures a soft, sweet exterior that enhances the cookie’s buttery interior.
Pro Tip: For an extra touch, you can sift the powdered sugar to remove clumps for a smooth, professional finish.
Baking Tips & Variations
These cookies are simple, but small adjustments can make them even more special:
1. Nut Variations
- Substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
- Chop nuts finely to ensure they blend well into the cookie dough.
2. Flavor Enhancements
- Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon or orange zest to the dough for a seasonal twist.
- A pinch of salted butter can enhance the nutty flavors and balance the sweetness.
3. Gluten-Free Option
- Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive bakers.
4. Make Ahead
- Dough can be prepared and shaped into balls ahead of time. Store on a baking sheet in the fridge, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Cookies keep well in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze unbaked dough balls for later use.
5. Presentation Tips
- Arrange on a festive platter with extra powdered sugar for a snow-covered effect.
- Package in small treat bags for gifts or holiday cookie swaps.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze baked cookies or dough balls for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before rolling in powdered sugar.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with hot chocolate, coffee, or tea for a cozy snack.
- Perfect addition to a holiday cookie tray or gift basket.
- Serve alongside fresh fruit or berries for a balanced dessert plate.
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are the epitome of holiday comfort: tender, buttery, nutty, and perfectly coated in sweet powdered sugar. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create cookies that look festive, taste irresistible, and delight family and friends. Their delicate texture and rich flavor make them a timeless treat for holidays, celebrations, or any day you want a little sweet indulgence. Once you try these melt-in-your-mouth cookies, they’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire.
FAQs
1. Can I substitute walnuts for pecans?
Yes! Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts work beautifully and create a slightly different flavor.
2. Why roll cookies in powdered sugar twice?
The first coating sticks to the warm cookie, while the second coating after cooling ensures a thick, snowy finish.
3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
4. How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they last up to one week.
5. Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! Freeze baked cookies or unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months.
Delicious Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies—tender, nutty, and coated in powdered sugar. Quick, easy, and perfect for holidays or cozy snacking.
