Butternut Cookies Recipe
If you’re looking for a cookie that’s both melt-in-your-mouth tender and packed with cozy, nutty flavor, Butternut Cookies are the treat you’ve been dreaming about. These little snowballs are delightfully simple to make, and every bite is a buttery burst of nostalgia. Whether you call them Russian tea cakes, Mexican wedding cookies, or snowballs, there’s just something magical about the delicate crumb, toasty nuts, and generous powdered sugar coating. They’re perfect for holiday cookie trays, afternoon tea, or anytime you want to spoil yourself and your loved ones with something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s beauty in simplicity, and Butternut Cookies celebrate that with just a handful of pantry staples. Each ingredient plays an important role, from the rich butter to the fluffy powdered sugar that gives these cookies their signature finish.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The foundation of that tender, melt-away texture and rich flavor—make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup, plus more for rolling): Adds sweetness and creates that signature delicate, powdery finish—don’t skip the double rolling!
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Just a splash brings all the flavors together and adds a beautiful aroma.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides the perfect structure without making the cookies dense or heavy.
- Finely chopped walnuts or pecans (1 cup): Nuts add crunch, flavor, and a nutty warmth that makes these cookies irresistible—use your favorite or a mix.
- Additional powdered sugar for rolling: For that snowy, festive look and a little extra sweetness in every bite.
How to Make Butternut Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Start by beating the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture—don’t rush it! You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale and almost cloud-like.
Step 2: Add Vanilla
Next, add in the vanilla extract and mix just until it’s fully incorporated. This subtle touch enhances all the other flavors without overpowering the delicate cookie base.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add your flour to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed or by hand until just combined. The dough will look a bit crumbly at first, but keep going—it will come together as you stir in the nuts.
Step 4: Stir in the Nuts
Gently fold in the finely chopped walnuts or pecans until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. These bits of nutty goodness add both flavor and texture to every bite of Butternut Cookies.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Use a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon to portion out 1-inch balls of dough, rolling each one between your palms. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet about an inch apart—they won’t spread much as they bake.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the cookies in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 12 to 14 minutes. You’re looking for lightly golden bottoms while the tops remain pale—this keeps them soft and tender.
Step 7: Coat in Powdered Sugar
When the cookies are just cool enough to handle but still warm, roll each one in powdered sugar. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely, then give them one more generous coating for that classic snowball look. Enjoy the irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen!
How to Serve Butternut Cookies
Garnishes
For a pretty presentation, consider dusting the platter with extra powdered sugar or adding a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts over the cookies. Edible flowers or a sprig of mint can also elevate the look for special occasions.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or even a glass of chilled milk. For a holiday treat, serve alongside a selection of other classic cookies to create a stunning dessert platter.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking Butternut Cookies in a clear jar tied with a ribbon for a charming homemade gift. Arrange them in mini cupcake liners for an elegant tea party vibe, or display them in a snowy “cookie mountain” at the center of your dessert table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store cooled Butternut Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to one week, and the flavor deepens as they sit, making them even more delicious after a day or two.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to three months—just arrange on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. Baked cookies can also be frozen in a single layer, then stored in containers between sheets of parchment paper.
Reheating
Butternut Cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you’d like to refresh them, a quick 3-4 minutes in a 300°F oven will revive their just-baked texture. Let them cool slightly, then re-roll in powdered sugar if needed.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter in a pinch! Just skip any added salt in the recipe and expect a slightly more pronounced buttery flavor. Unsalted butter lets you control the salt level more precisely.
What kind of nuts work best for Butternut Cookies?
Walnuts and pecans are both classic choices, but you can experiment with hazelnuts or almonds for a new twist. Just make sure to chop them finely so the cookies hold together nicely.
Do Butternut Cookies spread much while baking?
No, these cookies hold their round shape and don’t spread much at all. That’s why rolling them into even balls and spacing them about an inch apart works perfectly.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend to make Butternut Cookies gluten-free. The texture may be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious and tender.
Why do I roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice?
The first roll, while the cookies are still warm, helps the sugar stick and form a light coating. The second roll, after they’ve cooled, gives them that beautiful, thick, snowy finish that makes Butternut Cookies so irresistible.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about sharing a batch of Butternut Cookies—whether you’re making them for a holiday, a family gathering, or just because. Their buttery, nutty flavor and powdery sweetness have a way of making any moment a little more special. Give them a try and see why they’re a beloved classic in so many kitchens!
Print
Butternut Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 36 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Butternut Cookies, also known as snowball cookies or Russian tea cakes, are delicate, buttery treats featuring finely chopped walnuts or pecans and a generous coating of powdered sugar. These classic American holiday cookies are crisp on the outside with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, perfect for festive gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans
Coating
- Additional powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with the powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the cookies.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract until it is fully incorporated, enhancing the aroma and flavor of the dough.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the bowl, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough, which keeps the cookies tender.
- Mix in Nuts: Fold in the finely chopped walnuts or pecans evenly throughout the dough for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Form Dough Balls: Scoop out dough portions approximately 1 inch in diameter and roll each into a smooth ball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the cookie bottoms are lightly golden while the tops remain pale to ensure the characteristic tender texture.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool just enough to handle but while still warm, which helps the sugar coating adhere.
- First Sugar Coat: Roll each warm cookie in powdered sugar to give it a light initial dusting.
- Final Cooling and Coating: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, then roll them once more in powdered sugar for a thick, snowy finish characteristic of these traditional cookies.
Notes
- Butternut Cookies are also known as snowball cookies or Russian tea cakes.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- You can freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to three months, then bake them straight from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
