Name: Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies for a Joyful Holiday Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1/2 cup powdered sugar (sifted); 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend); 1 cup finely chopped pecans (can substitute with walnuts or almonds); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract); 1/4 teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter); 1 cup powdered sugar

As I stood in my kitchen surrounded by the inviting aroma of baking, I couldn’t help but smile at the magic happening before me. There’s something truly special about whipping up Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies, those delightful holiday treasures that bring back so many cherished memories. With their tender, crumbly texture and a sweet, snowy coating of powdered sugar, these cookies are not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic way to fill your home with warmth and joy. They’re easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for busy bakers and a wonderful treat for gifting or sharing at seasonal gatherings. Ready to bring a little magic to your holiday baking experience? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe together!

Why are Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies irresistible?

Melt-in-your-mouth texture: The tender and crumbly nature of these cookies makes them a delightful treat that simply dissolves in your mouth.

Rich, nutty flavor: Finely chopped pecans add a lovely crunch and earthy taste, making each bite a flavorful experience.

Versatile variations: Want to mix things up? Try making them as Mexican Wedding Cookies or give them a Greek twist!

Perfect for gifting: Their elegant snowy appearance makes them a beautiful addition to any holiday treat box or cookie platter, sure to impress loved ones.

Quick and easy: With just a handful of simple ingredients, these cookies come together quickly, letting you focus on enjoying the festive moments with family.

Elevate your baking with these Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies and embrace the joy of homemade treats!

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Ingredients

• Embrace the sweetness of the holidays with these easy-to-make cookies!

For the Cookie Dough

Butter – Choose unsalted butter for better control over the cookie’s saltiness.
Powdered Sugar – Adds the perfect sweetness and gives these Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies their signature snowy look; make sure to sift it!
All-Purpose Flour – This forms the base of the dough and provides a shortbread-like texture; a gluten-free blend can be used for a gluten-free version.
Pecans – These rich, nutty morsels enhance the flavor and provide a delightful crunch; feel free to swap for walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
Vanilla Extract – A splash boosts the flavor profile; for a unique spin, consider using almond extract as a substitute.
Salt – Balances the sweetness; you can forgo it if you’re using salted butter.

For the Sugary Coating

Powdered Sugar – A generous rolling in this will create that irresistibly snowy coating; remember to coat them twice for extra sweetness!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies bake evenly, resulting in the perfect texture. While the oven warms up, gather your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper for easy cookie removal later on.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step incorporates air into the batter, which is crucial for achieving that delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, salt, and vanilla extract while continuing to mix on low speed. Once combined, fold in the finely chopped pecans with a spatula. Ensure that all ingredients are well incorporated, but be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies—a smooth dough is what you want!

Step 4: Form Dough Balls
Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into uniform balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced a couple of inches apart to allow for slight spreading during baking. This will help maintain their lovely shape!

Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Watch closely as the edges should look set, but the tops must remain pale and not browned. This step is key to keeping the Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies tender and crumbly like a fine shortbread.

Step 6: Cool and Coat
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This brief cooling will help them hold their shape. After they’ve cooled slightly, roll the cookies in powdered sugar until they are generously coated, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Second Sugar Coating
For a beautiful snowy appearance, once the cookies are completely cool, roll them in powdered sugar a second time. This final touch ensures that the Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are beautifully dusted and ready to impress your friends and family during the holiday season!

Expert Tips for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape, preventing them from spreading too much.
Perfectly Measure Flour: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag, which can lead to dense cookies if too much flour is added.
Watch the Bake Time: Cookies should be set but not browning; keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary and a minute can make a difference in texture.
Double Dusting: For that iconic snowy look, roll your cooled cookies in powdered sugar twice—once after baking and once again once they are completely cool.
Use Fresh Pecans: Freshly chopped pecans enhance flavor and crunch; stale nuts can dampen the rich, nutty taste of your Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies.

What to Serve with Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

As you cozy up with a plate of these delightful holiday cookies, consider complementing them with a medley of flavors and textures that complete the experience.

Rich Hot Cocoa: The creamy richness of hot cocoa complements the cookies’ sweetness, creating a comforting duo perfect for chilly evenings.
Herbal Tea: Light, fragrant herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint enhance the nutty flavor of the cookies while offering a soothing contrast.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits adds a bright, tangy component that beautifully balances the cookies’ sweetness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture of vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the tender cookies; a scoop on the side is heavenly!
Coffee: A cup of rich, warm coffee pairs wonderfully, with the boldness cutting through the cookies’ sweetness for a balanced treat.
Cream Cheese Frosting: For a festive twist, serve with a dollop of tangy cream cheese frosting for added richness and flavor depth.
Chocolate Dipped Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti dipped in chocolate offer a different texture and an extra touch of sweetness that pairs nicely with the cookies.

These delicious pairings will elevate your holiday baking experience while spreading warmth and joy among family and friends!

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Variations

Feel free to customize your Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies and make them uniquely yours—your kitchen will come alive with delightful new flavors!

Nut Swap: Replace pecans with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different flavor and texture profile. Each nut brings a unique crunch and richness that will keep your cookies interesting.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste. There are fantastic blends out there that replicate the texture beautifully!
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing pop of brightness. The citrus adds a wonderful contrast to the richness of the butter and nuts.
Almond Extract: Swap out vanilla extract for almond extract to give your cookies a lovely nutty twist. This subtle change can elevate the flavor profile in a delightful way!
Chocolate Chip Twist: Fold in miniature chocolate chips for a playful contrast with the nuttiness. The melt-in-your-mouth chocolate combined with the crumbly cookie creates a magical experience.
Spiced Snowballs: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. These warm spices will make your cookies feel even cozier and perfect for holiday gatherings.
Coconut Flake Addition: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut for an added chew and flavor layer. The coconut lends a tropical twist to your holiday cookies, making them extra special.
Dipped in Chocolate: After rolling the cooled cookies in powdered sugar, dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate for a decadent touch. This will take your Snowball Cookies from classic to confectionery heaven!

By incorporating these variations, your Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies will always surprise and delight friends and family. For more cookie inspiration, check out these sweet treats like Chewy Pumpkin Cookies or try these delicious Crispy Chocolate Oat Cookies. Happy baking!

How to Store and Freeze Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer, store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Just allow the cookies to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: Both baked cookies and unbaked dough can be frozen. Baked cookies should be frozen in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to refresh their melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance—simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For even easier baking, you can also roll the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy these delicious cookies, bake straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. Just remember to coat them in powdered sugar once they’ve cooled for that beautiful snowy finish! This way, you can savor homemade goodness without the last-minute rush, keeping your holiday baking stress-free.

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs

How can I select the best pecans for my Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
Absolutely! Look for fresh pecans that are fragrant and free from any dark spots or signs of moisture. The best pecans should have a rich, nutty aroma. If you can, buy them in bulk from a trusted source and store them in the fridge to maintain their freshness.

What is the best way to store leftover Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer them to last longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before you enjoy them!

Can I freeze unbaked dough for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
Definitely! To freeze the unbaked dough, roll it into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply let them thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed—no need to adjust the baking time!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
No worries! If your cookies spread too much, it may be due to warm butter or not enough flour. To fix this, chill your dough for about 30 minutes before baking to help them maintain their shape. Ensure that when measuring flour, you are spooning and leveling it instead of scooping directly from the bag, which can lead to using too much flour. This helps achieve that tender, crumbly texture we’re after!

Are Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Good question! If you’re making these cookies for someone with nut allergies, it’s best to avoid using any nuts altogether. You can substitute with sunflower seeds or simply make a nut-free version using the same base ingredients. Just ensure that you’re using a nut-free butter alternative to keep them safe and delicious!