If you are craving a melt-in-your-mouth treat that feels like a warm hug in cookie form, the Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These charming little cookies combine rich, creamy butter with the delicate crunch of pecans and are finished with a snowy blanket of powdered sugar that adds a festive touch and irresistible sweetness. Every bite is a delightful balance of buttery softness and nutty texture, making them a cherished favorite during holidays or anytime you want to spoil yourself or loved ones with something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial part to create that perfect texture and flavor: buttery richness, nutty crunch, gentle sweetness, and that classic snowy finish everyone adores.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The foundation for tenderness and rich flavor in every bite.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the dough gently and helps achieve that delicate texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors perfectly.
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a warm, inviting aroma and depth of flavor.
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: Gives the cookies their structure and tender crumb.
- ¾ cup pecans, finely chopped: Provides a delightful crunch and nutty richness.
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting): Creates the signature snowy coating that makes these cookies so special.
How to Make Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature once your cookies are ready to bake. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper; this not only protects the pans but also helps with easy release and cleanup.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Next, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar in a stand mixer on medium speed. Keep going for about 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and irresistibly creamy. This step is key to achieving that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 3: Mix in Flavor and Flour
Add the salt and vanilla extract, giving the dough a lovely warm hint of sweetness and balance. Gradually introduce the flour into the mixer on low speed to avoid overmixing. Finally, fold in the finely chopped pecans by hand to maintain their crunchy texture.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Using a 1-tablespoon scoop, roll the dough into uniform 1-inch balls. This helps the cookies bake evenly. Place each ball on your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between them for spreading.
Step 5: Bake Until Lightly Golden
Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes. Watch carefully—the bottoms should turn a light golden color, signaling the perfect balance of baked through yet soft inside. Avoid overbaking to keep that tender crumb.
Step 6: Powder Sugar Coating While Warm
Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. While they’re still warm, gently roll each one in powdered sugar. This first coat helps the sugar stick beautifully and enhances their snowy appearance.
Step 7: Final Cool and Sugar Coat
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. After cooling, give them a second thorough dusting with powdered sugar so they look like charming snowballs ready for any festive occasion.
Step 8: Enjoy Your Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies!
Serve these delightful cookies with a smile, knowing you’ve made something truly special. Whether gifting or sharing, these buttery, nutty, and sweet gems won’t last long!
How to Serve Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar is classic and stunning on its own, but you can also sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans on top for extra crunch and visual appeal. For a festive twist, a tiny sprinkle of cinnamon or a light drizzle of white chocolate adds a wonderful flavor layer.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, creamy hot chocolate, or a chilled glass of milk. For holiday parties, serve with a platter of fresh fruit or alongside a selection of cheeses to contrast their sweet nuttiness.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider arranging your Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe on a decorative tiered platter or in a clear jar tied with a festive ribbon for gift-giving. Individually wrap a few cookies in cellophane bags with a cute tag for thoughtful hostess gifts or party favors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and tender for up to one week. Make sure to keep them in a single layer, or use parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Freezing
These cookies freeze wonderfully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months frozen without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy, allow the cookies to thaw at room temperature. If you want the powdered sugar fresh and snowy looking, dust them lightly again after thawing. Warm them slightly in a low oven (300°F) for a few minutes for that just-baked experience.
FAQs
Can I substitute walnuts for pecans in the Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! Walnuts offer a slightly different texture and flavor but pair well with the buttery base. Just chop them finely as you would pecans.
Why do the cookies need to be rolled in powdered sugar twice?
The first roll while warm helps the sugar stick nicely. The second roll after cooling creates a thicker, snowy coating that defines the cookie’s classic look and taste.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
It’s best to use unsalted butter here so you can control the salt level precisely. Using salted butter can make the cookies slightly saltier than intended.
What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
You can cream the butter and sugar with a hand mixer or even by hand using a sturdy whisk and some elbow grease. Just make sure the butter is softened to make this easier.
Do these cookies keep well for gifting?
Yes! They hold up well at room temperature and can be made a few days ahead, making them perfect for holiday gifts or party trays.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about a batch of perfectly baked Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe. They bring joy with every bite and are a wonderful way to share love and sweetness with friends and family. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll quickly discover why these cookies hold a special place in so many kitchens and celebrations.
Print
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are tender, melt-in-your-mouth treats dusted with powdered sugar for a delicate finish. These classic cookies combine rich butter, finely chopped pecans, and vanilla to create a nutty, sweet flavor perfect for any occasion or holiday gathering.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup pecans, finely chopped
For Dusting
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure cookies bake evenly and do not stick.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer, cream the softened butter and ½ cup powdered sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes, creating a smooth base for the dough.
- Add Flavorings and Flour: Mix in ¼ teaspoon salt and 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract. Gradually add the 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour at low speed until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. Then fold in the finely chopped ¾ cup pecans by hand for even nut distribution.
- Shape Cookies: Use a 1-tablespoon scoop or spoon to form dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on prepared baking sheets with about 2 inches spacing to allow even baking and spreading.
- Bake: Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly golden. Be cautious not to overbake to maintain the tender texture.
- Initial Cooling and Dusting: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. While still warm, gently roll them in 1 cup powdered sugar to start the classic snowball coating.
- Final Cooling and Dusting: Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, roll them again in powdered sugar to create a thick, snowy coating.
- Serve: Enjoy your freshly baked Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies with family and friends.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened but not melted for proper creaming.
- Do not overmix the dough to keep cookies tender.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and aid cleanup.
- Rolling in powdered sugar twice enhances the classic snowball cookie texture and appearance.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For variation, substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds.
