Description
These Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are delicate, melt-in-your-mouth treats perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave a sweet nutty bite. Made with finely chopped pecans, soft butter, and dusted generously with powdered sugar, these classic cookies combine a tender crumb with a rich buttery flavor and a snowy, sweet coating.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (confectioner’s sugar)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup pecans (or walnuts), finely chopped
For Dusting
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Cream 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, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step helps to incorporate air for a tender cookie texture.
- Add Flavor and Flour: Mix in the salt and vanilla extract. Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture at a low speed, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough. Then fold in the finely chopped pecans gently by hand to evenly distribute them.
- Shape Cookies: Using a 1-tablespoon scoop or measuring spoon, portion the dough and roll each into approximately 1-inch diameter balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for some spreading.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the bottoms are just beginning to turn a light golden color. Be careful not to overbake as the cookies should remain tender and crumbly.
- Initial Cooling and Dusting: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes so they firm up slightly but are still warm enough to handle. While warm, gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat them lightly.
- Final Cooling and Dusting: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once fully cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again to create a thick, snowy coating that defines these classic snowball cookies.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the cookies on a serving plate and enjoy your freshly baked Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies with a cup of tea or milk.
Notes
- Use finely chopped pecans or walnuts depending on your preference; walnuts are a great alternative.
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
- Do not overbake; these cookies are best when tender and slightly crumbly.
- Rolling the warm cookies in powdered sugar twice ensures a thick, beautiful coating.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
