If you’ve been on the hunt for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth treat to steal the show at your next gathering, let me introduce you to the irresistible magic of the Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe. These cookies are a dream come true, offering a tender, buttery bite studded with crunchy pecans and coated in a snowy blanket of powdered sugar that simply melts away. They’re classic, comforting, and bursting with flavor, making them an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a cookie that’s both elegant and utterly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe shines because of its simplicity. Every ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture, from the creamy butter that ensures softness to the pecans adding a toasty crunch and the powdered sugar sprinkling sweetness with a snowy finish.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup or 2 sticks): Using softened butter helps create that tender, rich texture these cookies are famous for.
- Powdered sugar (½ cup plus extra): Sweetens the dough delicately and provides the signature snowy coating.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): A small splash adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The foundation that gives the cookies structure without toughening them up.
- Salt (¼ tsp): Just a pinch boosts all the sweet flavors and balances the richness.
- Finely chopped pecans (1 cup): Adds crunch and a nutty note that pairs perfectly with the buttery dough.
How to Make Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
First things first, get your oven heated to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even, gentle heat perfect for baking your cookies just right. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat—either will prevent sticking and help your cookies bake evenly with a beautiful finish.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, giving your cookies that delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Next, add in the vanilla extract for that lovely aromatic hint. Gradually mix in the flour and salt, combining everything just until it comes together to avoid overworking the dough. Finally, fold in those finely chopped pecans gently, making sure each bite will have a satisfying nutty crunch.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Now for the fun part! Roll the dough into 1-inch balls using your hands, which keeps each cookie perfectly bite-sized. Lay them out on your prepared baking sheet with about an inch of space apart to let them bake evenly without sticking together. This simple shape is one of those nostalgic classics that tastes as delightful as it looks.
Step 4: Bake Until Just Golden
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. What you’re looking for is a lightly golden bottom while the tops stay pale – that’s a sign they’re baked to tender perfection. After removing from the oven, give the cookies a little cooling time on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes so they firm up just right before the sugary coating.
Step 5: Coat in Powdered Sugar
This step gives the cookies their signature look and delicate sweetness. While the cookies are still warm, gently roll them in powdered sugar to coat them evenly. Then place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Once fully cooled, give them a second roll in powdered sugar for that extra thick and beautiful snowball effect you’ve been waiting for.
How to Serve Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Want to add a little extra flair? Dust a tiny sprinkle of cinnamon or a light drizzle of melted white chocolate over the powdered sugar coating. A few whole pecans on top before baking can also add an inviting, rustic touch.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with classic hot beverages—think steaming mugs of coffee, rich hot chocolate, or a fragrant cup of chai tea. They also make a charming addition to a festive holiday cheese platter or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, stack your Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe in a pretty tin lined with parchment paper or arrange them in a glass jar tied with a colorful ribbon as a thoughtful homemade gift. You can also serve them nestled on a bed of fresh cranberries or evergreen sprigs for a festive holiday display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and tender for up to a week. Keeping them separated with parchment paper layers will prevent the powdered sugar coating from rubbing off and maintain their perfect snowy look.
Freezing
These cookies freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, just be sure to re-coat with powdered sugar after thawing if you want that freshly dusted snowball appearance.
Reheating
Since these are delicate, reheating is best done gently. Let them come to room temperature naturally or warm briefly in a low oven (around 300°F) for just a few minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make them too soft and chewy rather than tender and crumbly.
FAQs
Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! While pecans give these cookies their signature flavor and crunch, you can easily swap in walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios according to your preference or what you have on hand.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can, but be mindful to reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe so your cookies stay balanced and not overly salty.
Why do I need to roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice?
The first roll while the cookies are warm helps the sugar adhere well and melt slightly into the surface. The second roll after cooling adds a gorgeous, thick snowy coating that defines the classic look and adds an extra layer of sweetness.
Can I make these cookies vegan or gluten-free?
With some substitutions, yes! Try using vegan butter and gluten-free flour blends; however, note the texture might vary slightly. The buttery richness and crumbly texture come primarily from butter and wheat flour, so results may differ.
What’s the best way to achieve a crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture?
Key tips include using softened butter and creaming it well with sugar, handling the dough gently without overmixing, and baking just until the bottoms are lightly golden. Following these ensures a tender and crumbly cookie every time.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend enough trying this Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe—it’s such a charming and nostalgic treat that’s easy to make but leaves an unforgettable impression. Whether you’re baking for holidays, gifting to friends, or simply wanting a little sweet indulgence, these cookies deliver happiness in every bite. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the joyous world of snowball cookie magic!
Print
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are delicate, melt-in-your-mouth treats featuring a tender buttery dough studded with finely chopped pecans. Rolled generously in powdered sugar for a snowy finish, these classic cookies are perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you crave a sweet, nutty delight.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure the cookies do not stick and bake evenly.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. Fold in the finely chopped pecans evenly throughout.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch diameter balls, ensuring they are uniform in size for even baking. Place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow slight spreading during baking.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. This indicates the cookies are fully baked while maintaining a tender crumb. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up slightly.
- Coat in Powdered Sugar: While the cookies are still warm, gently roll them in powdered sugar to adhere a first layer of sweetness. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once fully cooled, roll them in powdered sugar a second time to create a thick, snowy coating characteristic of snowball cookies.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and better texture.
- Fine chopping of pecans helps distribute the nuts evenly without large chunks.
- For best results, cool the cookies completely before the second coating of powdered sugar to prevent melting and clumping.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute to make this recipe gluten-free.
