If you are searching for a melt-in-your-mouth delight that bursts with warm, nutty flavor and a tender crumb, look no further than this Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe. These charming little cookies are a festive favorite, dusted generously with powdered sugar that resembles soft, fresh snow. Each bite offers a perfect balance of rich butteriness and the delightful crunch of finely chopped pecans. Whether it’s the holidays or any time you crave a cozy treat, these cookies are sure to become a treasured classic in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Working with simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to how these cookies achieve their delightful flavor and perfect texture. Each component plays a key role, from the creamy softness of butter to the subtly sweet crunch of pecans.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s essential for these cookies.
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus more for coating): Powdered sugar sweetens delicately and provides that signature snowy coating after baking.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the rich, buttery flavor with a warm aromatic note.
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: The flour forms the structure, making sure the cookies hold their shape without being tough.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and intensifies the nutty flavors.
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans: Pecans add a satisfying crunch and an irresistible nutty taste that elevates every bite.
How to Make Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to help with even baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial for creating that tender, buttery texture that snowball cookies are famous for.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Once creamed, blend in the vanilla extract. This adds a lovely warm fragrance that will beautifully complement the nutty pecans in your cookies.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing gently until everything just comes together. Be careful not to overmix here—overworking the dough can make the cookies tough instead of tender.
Step 5: Fold in the Pecans
Gently fold the finely chopped pecans into the dough. This step ensures that every cookie gets that satisfying nutty crunch, adding both texture and flavor.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on your prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 1 inch apart to allow for gentle spreading.
Step 7: Bake and Coat in Powdered Sugar
Bake the cookies for 14 to 16 minutes until the bottoms are just starting to turn golden. Remove them from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. While still warm, carefully roll each cookie in powdered sugar for the first time. Then, once completely cooled, coat them a second time to achieve that signature snowball look and sweet finish.
How to Serve Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies look absolutely irresistible on their own, but you can add a festive touch by sprinkling extra powdered sugar just before serving. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of melted white chocolate can also amplify the warmth and sweetness.
Side Dishes
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies make a perfect companion to a steaming cup of hot tea, rich coffee, or velvety hot chocolate. For holiday gatherings, serve them alongside a platter of fresh fruit and cheese for a balanced sweet-and-savory spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming display, arrange these cookies in a woven basket lined with a festive cloth or stack them on tiered dessert stands. Wrapping a few in clear cello bags tied with a ribbon makes a heartwarming gift your friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cookies keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, maintaining their delicate crumb and buttery flavor. Just be sure they are completely cooled before storing to avoid any unwanted moisture buildup.
Freezing
If you want to make these cookies ahead of time or save some for later, they freeze wonderfully. Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature and recoat with powdered sugar if desired.
Reheating
While these cookies are delightful fresh, you can gently warm them in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5 minutes to refresh their buttery softness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them lose their texture and powdery coating.
FAQs
Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts can be used to give your snowball cookies a different crunch and flavor. Toasting the nuts before adding them enhances their aroma and taste.
Is it necessary to roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice?
Yes, rolling your cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm helps the sugar stick better, and a second coating after they cool gives them that lovely snowy finish and extra sweetness.
Can I make these cookies without nuts?
Definitely! If you prefer nut-free treats, simply omit the pecans. The cookies will still be buttery and delicious, though you’ll miss that crunchy pecan texture.
How long can I keep these cookies fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh and tasty for up to one week. Their tender texture and rich flavor are best enjoyed within this timeframe.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free as is. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends designed for baking, but be mindful that texture may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe that once you try this Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe, it will become one of your go-to treats for both everyday moments and special occasions. Their perfect balance of rich butteriness and nutty crunch, crowned with that snowy sugar coating, brings such joy with every bite. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your loved ones to these delightful little pockets of happiness!
Print
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are classic holiday treats featuring a rich, buttery dough loaded with finely chopped pecans. Rolled generously in powdered sugar, they offer a melt-in-your-mouth texture balanced by a subtle nutty crunch. Perfect for festive gatherings or as a cozy homemade gift, these no-egg cookies combine simplicity and indulgence for an irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus more for coating)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened butter and ½ cup powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. This step incorporates air for a tender cookie.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Mix in the vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the dough with warm flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Form Dough Balls: Scoop the dough and roll into 1-inch balls using your hands, then place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Cookies: Bake for 14–16 minutes or until the bottoms of the cookies turn lightly golden, ensuring they are set but not browned on top.
- Initial Cooling and Coating: Remove cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat evenly.
- Final Cooling and Sugar Coating: Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again to create the classic snowy finish.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- These cookies freeze well; thaw completely before re-coating with powdered sugar if desired.
- For added depth of flavor, toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet before folding them into the dough.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Ensure butter is softened but not melted for best dough consistency.
