If you’re on the hunt for a classic holiday treat that melts in your mouth and fills your kitchen with the sweetest aroma, look no further than the Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe. These cookies are a perfect harmony of rich, buttery dough dotted with crunchy pecans and dusted generously with powdered sugar, giving them that iconic snowball appearance. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just because, this recipe is as charming as it is delicious, with each bite offering a tender, nutty delight that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is the secret to making these cookies truly shine. Each element plays an important role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor balance that makes this treat unforgettable.
- Unsalted butter: Using softened butter ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth base for the cookies.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the dough gently and adds a snowy finishing touch when rolled on the cookies.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, fragrant note that ties everything together.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, giving body and structure to the cookies.
- Salt: Just a pinch brings out the sweetness and deepens the overall flavor profile.
- Finely chopped pecans: Add a delightful crunch and nutty richness that makes these cookies special.
How to Make Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by creaming the softened butter with powdered sugar until you achieve a light and fluffy mixture. This step is key to creating the silky texture that will carry through to the final cookie. Add in the vanilla extract and mix just enough to blend all those lovely flavors together.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in the flour and salt into your butter mixture, keeping the speed low to avoid overworking the dough. Once the flour is incorporated, gently fold in the finely chopped pecans. These nuts bring a wonderful crunch and depth of flavor, making every bite a treat.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it firms up the dough, preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking and keeping their charming snowball shape intact.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only helps with even baking but also makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Once chilled, scoop about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a smooth ball with your hands. Place the balls on the baking sheet about an inch apart, so they have room to bake evenly. Pop them into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until you notice the bottoms turning a beautiful light golden hue.
Step 6: Roll in Powdered Sugar
As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, let them cool for about 5 minutes but while they are still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar. This first coat sticks beautifully to the cookie surface. Once completely cool, give them a second roll for that signature, thick snowball look and extra sweet finish.
How to Serve Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For a little holiday sparkle, consider lightly dusting extra powdered sugar right before serving. You can also add a few chopped pecans lightly pressed onto the top of warm cookies for a rustic, nutty accent.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or even a rich hot chocolate. Their delicate sweetness complements spiced drinks beautifully, making them perfect for afternoon gatherings or cozy evenings by the fire.
Creative Ways to Present
Present these snowball cookies in decorative tins lined with festive paper, or stack them tall on a platter with sprigs of fresh rosemary or pine for a winter-inspired look. Layering powdered sugar between the cookies on the serving plate can mimic a fresh snowfall, adding to the holiday magic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies keep best in an airtight container at room temperature. They remain fresh and flavorful for up to one week, making them an ideal make-ahead treat for busy days.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies successfully by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them into a sealed freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll hold up beautifully in the freezer for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy their buttery charm anytime.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes. If you want a freshly baked sensation, pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain their delicate crispness.
FAQs
Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds make excellent alternatives if pecans aren’t available. Just make sure to finely chop them to maintain the cookie’s delicate texture.
Why should I chill the dough before baking?
Chilling the dough firms it up, which prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. It also helps the flavors meld together, resulting in a better texture and taste.
Is it necessary to roll the cookies twice in powdered sugar?
Rolling twice creates that classic snowy look and a lovely sweet coating that contrasts with the nutty dough inside. It’s a simple step that elevates the cookie both visually and in flavor.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. You may want to add a little xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t contain it to help with texture.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, freezing is your best bet and they will last up to three months.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about these Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe — from the buttery, nut-studded dough to the snowy coating of sugar that melts on your tongue. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or simply enjoying with a quiet cup of tea, these cookies are sure to become a beloved part of your baking repertoire. I encourage you to give this recipe a try soon; once you do, these snowball cookies will no doubt become one of your treasured go-to treats.
Print
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are melt-in-your-mouth delights perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet, nutty treat. These delicate cookies are rich with butter, lightly sweetened with powdered sugar, and generously studded with finely chopped pecans. Rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy finish, they offer a crisp exterior and a tender, crumbly texture inside.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling the cookies)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Fold in the finely chopped pecans gently.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent the cookies from spreading during baking.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Shape and Bake: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place each cookie ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Roll in Powdered Sugar: Remove cookies from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat. Allow cookies to cool completely and roll them again in powdered sugar for a double coat of sweetness and that classic snowy appearance.
- Serve and Store: Enjoy your pecan snowball cookies fresh, or store them in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh for several days.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is essential for maintaining the cookie shape during baking.
- Use finely chopped pecans for an even texture throughout the cookie.
- The double coating of powdered sugar gives the cookies their traditional snowball appearance and extra sweetness.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
