Snowball Cookies

Name: Snowball Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt

Author: Melon Claire

Published: September 21, 2024

Delicious Snowball Cookies dusted with powdered sugar on a plate.

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Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that brings a sense of warmth and joy to any dessert table. With their enchanting powdered sugar coating and a soft, buttery center infused with nuts, these cookies evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of cozy family gatherings during the holidays.

This Recipe is not only simple to follow but also a great way to bond with loved ones in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this Step-by-Step guide to creating these heavenly bites that will surely become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore Snowball Cookies for several reasons. First and foremost, they are remarkably easy to prepare. Whip them up quickly, making them perfect for both spontaneous cravings and planned celebrations. The recipe calls for minimal ingredients, making it both budget-friendly and accessible for home bakers of all skill levels. Plus, with no complicated techniques involved, even kids can join in on the fun of making these delightful cookies. They are family-friendly, bringing everyone together for a sweet culinary adventure.

Ingredients for Snowball Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter (softened): This creamy base adds the rich flavor and texture that makes these cookies melt in your mouth.
1 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating): This sweet goodness not only sweetens the cookies but also provides that signature snowy look.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The essential foundation for any cookie, creating the perfect structure that’s light yet satisfying.
1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts): These add a delightful crunch and a nutty richness that elevates the flavor profile.
1 tsp vanilla extract: This fragrant hint of sweetness is what ties all the flavors together.
1/4 tsp salt: A little salt helps to enhance the sweetness and balance the flavors beautifully.

Step-by-Step Directions for Snowball Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and makes clean-up a breeze.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This typically takes about 3-4 minutes and is key for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Gradually mix in the flour, chopped nuts, vanilla extract, and salt. Make sure to combine these ingredients until just mixed to avoid overworking the dough.
Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s enough space between each cookie for spreading.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the bottoms are slightly golden but the tops remain pale and soft. This creates the perfect texture contrast.
Once they’re slightly cooled, roll each cookie in powdered sugar until fully coated, giving them their signature snowball appearance.

Tips & Tricks

Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is at room temperature so it creams perfectly with the sugar!
Chilling the Dough: For a firmer dough, refrigerate for about 30 minutes before baking, which helps maintain their shape.
Nut Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts or even omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
Flavor Boosts: Try adding a dash of almond extract for added depth or other flavors that your family prefers.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Presentation plays a vital role in delighting your guests! Serve your Snowball Cookies on a festive platter, sprinkled with more powdered sugar for that extra visual appeal. Pair them with a rich cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or even a glass of chilled milk. They also make wonderful gifts when packaged in decorative boxes, perfect for holiday celebrations or as thoughtful gestures for friends and family!

Nutritional Information

While Snowball Cookies are undoubtedly a delicious treat, it’s nice to be mindful of the nutritional aspect. Each cookie roughly contains around 100 calories, with modest fats primarily from the butter and nuts. Enjoy these cookies as a treat rather than a staple, and they can be a delightful indulgence every now and then!

Storing Tips & Variations for Snowball Cookies

To maintain freshness, store your Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. For healthier swaps, consider substituting half of the butter with applesauce or using whole wheat flour for a more nutritious version. Explore creative variations by adding in dried fruits or different spices like cinnamon for a unique twist!

Conclusion for Snowball Cookies

There’s no better time than now to treat yourself and your loved ones to the wonderfully delicious Snowball Cookies. They are an ideal blend of simplicity and delightful flavor, guaranteed to bring smiles to faces young and old. So, gather your ingredients and start baking these magical cookies today—you’ll be glad you did!

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter in Snowball Cookies?

Yes, margarine can be used, but it may slightly affect the texture and flavor. Unsalted butter is recommended for the best results.

2. How do I ensure my cookies don’t spread too much while baking?

Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help prevent excessive spreading.

3. What types of nuts work best for Snowball Cookies?

Pecans and walnuts are traditional choices, but feel free to use any nut you prefer, or you can omit them entirely if you have nut allergies.

4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and follow the same recipe for delightful gluten-free Snowball Cookies.

5. How should I store leftover Snowball Cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer shelf life. Just remember to roll them in powdered sugar again once thawed!