Snowball Cookies Recipe

Name: Snowball Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 1 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (toasted); 1 tsp vanilla extract

Author: Olivia

Published: May 15, 2025

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Introduction to Snowball Cookies

Ah, Snowball Cookies! Just hearing that name brings warmth and joy to my heart. These delightful little treats are perfect when life feels hectic and you need a little sweet something to brighten the day. With their delightful nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, Snowball Cookies are a wonderful way to impress your loved ones or simply enjoy a cozy afternoon at home. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, making them an ideal baking project for busy moms and professionals like us. So let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that promises smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Snowball Cookies

You’ll absolutely adore Snowball Cookies for their simplicity and delightful taste. They’re super easy to throw together, perfect for those busy days when you crave a sweet distraction. The combination of buttery goodness and crunchy nuts creates a flavor that dances on your palate. Plus, they’re undeniably versatile! Whether for a holiday gathering or an everyday treat, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your home.

Ingredients for Snowball Cookies

Let’s gather our ingredients for these delightful Snowball Cookies! Each component plays a vital role in creating that melt-in-your-mouth magic.

Unsalted butter: The star of the show, bringing creaminess and rich flavor. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
Powdered sugar: This sugar gives the cookies their sweetness and delicate texture. It also helps to create that lovely dusting on top.

All-purpose flour: The backbone of our cookies! It provides structure while allowing them to remain soft and crumbly.
Chopped walnuts or pecans: These crunchy nuts add a nice texture and nutty flavor. Toasting them lightly enhances their richness.

Vanilla extract: A splash of this fragrant liquid elevates the overall flavor, making each bite unforgettable.

For those feeling adventurous, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon for warmth or swapping in almond extract for a twist!

Don’t worry if you need exact measurements—they’re right at the bottom of the article and are also available for printing. Now, let’s get ready to bake!

How to Make Snowball Cookies

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s jump into the magic of making these delightful Snowball Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll soon be enveloped in sweet, nutty aromas that fill your home with joy.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven warming up to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that our cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect light golden color.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the room temperature unsalted butter and powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture looks light and fluffy—this should take around 3-5 minutes. This step is all about creating tiny air pockets, making our cookies delightfully tender!

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Next, grab your all-purpose flour. Gradually sift it into the butter-sugar mixture while mixing on low speed. Trust me, starting slow is key to avoiding a sweet flour cloud in your kitchen! This step is important for achieving a perfectly combined dough without lumps.

Step 4: Add Nuts and Flavor

Now it’s time to fold in those chopped walnuts or pecans along with the vanilla extract. Gently stir until the nuts are evenly distributed. The crunch of the nuts paired with the sweet, buttery dough is pure bliss!

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Grab a small scoop or your hands and mold the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them onto ungreased baking sheets, making sure they’re spaced about an inch apart. They’ll spread just a bit while baking, so give them room to breathe!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the cookie trays into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake! You want the edges just lightly golden, which indicates they’re ready to come out of the oven. The magic happens here as they puff up just a bit!

Step 7: Roll in Powdered Sugar

Once out of the oven, let the cookies sit for a couple of minutes to cool off slightly. While they’re still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar generously. This creates that classic snowy finish we all love. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Get ready for those smiles when they taste the first one!

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter is at room temperature. It helps create that fluffy texture.

Don’t skip the toasting! A quick toast on the nuts enhances their flavor immensely.
Rolling in powdered sugar while warm gives a beautiful finish and prevents it from soaking into the cookies.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy!

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy plastic bowl works well, too.
Electric mixer: This is great for creaming butter and sugar. You can use a whisk if you’re feeling adventurous!
Baking sheets: You’ll need a couple of ungreased sheets. Parchment paper is a handy alternative for easy cleanup.

Cookie scoop or teaspoon: Perfect for shaping your cookie balls. A spoon will do in a pinch!

Variations

Chocolate Snowball Cookies: Add cocoa powder to the flour for a rich, chocolatey twist.
Pecan vs. Walnut: Switch up the nuts! Use pecans for a sweeter taste or walnuts for a more earthy flavor.

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to double-check the ratios!
Spiced Snowball Cookies: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor, ideal for winter treats.
Orange Zest: A little grated orange peel can add a fresh citrus note that brightens every bite!

Serving Suggestions

Pair Snowball Cookies with a steaming cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert duo.
Present them on a festive platter, dusted with extra powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

For a fun twist, add a few fresh berries on the side for color and freshness!

FAQs about Snowball Cookies

Can I use a different type of nut in my Snowball Cookies?

Absolutely! You can swap walnuts for pecans or even use almonds for a different flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with whatever you have on hand!

How should I store my Snowball Cookies?

To keep those delightful cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week—though I doubt they’ll last that long!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking!

Can I freeze Snowball Cookies?

Sure thing! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just ensure they’re fully cooled before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer!

What should I serve with Snowball Cookies?

Pair them with a lovely cup of tea or coffee for a cozy experience. They also shine when served alongside festive drinks during the holidays!

Final Thoughts

Baking Snowball Cookies is more than just following a recipe; it’s a heartfelt experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and sweet aromas. These delightful, nutty cookies invite joy with each bite, making them perfect for sharing with family or friends. Whether you enjoy them during the holidays or on a quiet afternoon, they lift spirits and create treasured memories. So roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and bake up a batch of happiness! Trust me, your loved ones will thank you, and you just might find yourself making them a cherished family tradition.