The first time I made a batch of SnowBall Cookies the kitchen was filled with the aroma of butter and the excitement of something truly delightful. As I watched them bake in the oven memories flooded back to me. Memories filled with joy as my husband and child took their first bite into these melt-in-your-mouth delights. The simplicity of the ingredients and how they brought warmth into our homemade cookies an instant family favorite.
What makes this SnowBall Cookies stand out?
What makes these SnowBall Cookies stand out is their combination of flavors and textures. The satisfying crunch, from the chopped pecans, perfectly complements the richness of the butter creating a symphony in each bite. The magic happens when these treats are coated with sugar transforming them into snowballs. These cookies aren’t desserts; they’re moments that bring loved ones together and capture pure joy in every mouthful.
What You Need To Make This SnowBall Cookies Recipe?
Pecans: While the recipe provides some flexibility I highly recommend adding chopped pecans. They bring a texture that perfectly complements the soft and buttery cookies. However, if you have allergies or prefer a different texture feel free to skip them. The cookies will still maintain their captivating charm.
Butter: Choose butter, for this recipe. This allows you to control the saltiness of the cookies and ensures an indulgent flavor. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for blending and to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth consistency we all love.
Confectioner’s Sugar: Confectioners’ sugar serves a dual purpose in these SnowBall Cookies. It adds sweetness to the dough while creating a coating on the outside. The fine texture of this sugar guarantees a dough and its delicate dusting gives the cookies a resemblance to fallen snowflakes.
Vanilla: A mere teaspoon of vanilla essence can make all the difference. It imparts a warmth. Inviting aroma to elevate these cookies from simple treats, to memorable indulgences. Additionally, it beautifully enhances the flavors of the pecans.
Powdered Sugar: To give the cookies their snowball appearance the last step is to roll them in sugar. This isn’t for looks; the powdered sugar adds a sweetness, to each bite making the whole sensory experience even better. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous you might want to consider rolling them in sugar for an extra layer of sugary delight.
Steps To Make SnowBall Cookies:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Step 2: In a bowl mix together the flour and confectioners’ sugar until well combined.
Step 3: Add the chopped pecans to the mixture of flour and sugar.
Step 4: In a bowl beat the butter until it becomes delightfully fluffy.
Step 5: Introduce the vanilla to the butter. Beat again until everything is beautifully blended together.
Step 6: Gradually add the mixture of flour, sugar, and pecans into the butter gently combining everything to form a dough.
Step 7: Shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 8: Bake for 16 to 18 minutes. Until they turn a lovely golden color.
Step 9: Out of the oven allow the cookies to cool on the pan for 5 minutes.
Step 10: After cooling down roll each cookie in sugar to give them their signature appearance.
Tip:
To enhance the taste of your SnowBall Cookies you can add a layer of flavor by toasting the pecans before incorporating them into the recipe. When you toast the pecans it brings out a depth and aroma that takes the taste profile of the cookies to another level.
Here’s how you can do it; Spread out the chopped pecans evenly on a baking sheet. Toast them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 5 to 7 minutes or until they become fragrant and lightly golden. Remember to keep an eye on them as nuts can quickly go from toasted to burnt.
After toasting let the pecans cool down before adding them to the cookie dough following the recipe instructions. This simple step will infuse your cookies with a nutty essence that perfectly complements the buttery and sweet elements creating a symphony of flavors that will leave a lasting impression, on your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make these cookies without pecans for a nut-free option?
Of course! While pecans add a texture and flavor you can leave them out if you prefer a nut version. The cookies will still be wonderfully soft and tasty.
Can I freeze SnowBall Cookies for later enjoyment?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze well. Once they are baked and cooled simply store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them just let them thaw at room temperature.
Can I add a festive touch to these cookies for special occasions?
Certainly! In addition, to rolling them in sugar you can also sprinkle sugar over the confectioners’ sugar for a whimsical and festive appearance. This is perfect, for adding a touch of joy during holiday celebrations.
SnowBall Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped pecans optional
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- ¼ cup confectioner’s sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a mixing bowl combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ¼ cup of confectioners sugar.
- Next, add in 2 cups of chopped pecans to the mixture of flour and sugar.
- Take another bowl. Beat 1 cup of butter until it becomes fluffy. Then mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Slowly blend the mixture of flour, sugar and pecans into the butter until it forms a dough.
- Shape the dough into balls, around 1 inch in size. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the balls for 16 to 18 minutes. Until they turn golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Roll each cooled cookie in sugar until they are fully coated creating an appearance.
- If desired you can also do a second roll. Sprinkle colored sugar, for an extra special touch.
- Enjoy these SnowBall Cookies that simply melt in your mouth!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!