Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
If you’re in the mood for a classic holiday treat that melts in your mouth with every bite, these Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are about to become your new obsession. Imagine buttery morsels studded with toasted pecans, all hidden beneath a thick cloud of fluffy powdered sugar—simple, nostalgic, and as charmingly irresistible as a fresh snowfall. Whether you’re filling your cookie tin for a festive gathering or just want a cozy moment with a cup of tea, these cookies embody pure comfort and joy. Trust me, they’ll disappear almost as fast as you can make them!
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something magical about how just a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies. Each ingredient plays a special role: the butter brings richness, the pecans add crunch, and that dusting of sugar? Absolute perfection.
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): The backbone of these cookies, giving you that coveted tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup, plus extra for rolling): Adds sweetness while ensuring the cookies stay perfectly soft and delicate.
- Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): A splash of vanilla deepens the overall flavor and brings warmth to each bite.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups): Provides just the right amount of structure—enough to hold together, but never dry or crumbly.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and boosts all the other flavors.
- Finely Chopped Pecans (1 cup): Nutty, buttery, and downright essential; toasting them brings out an even richer flavor.
How to Make Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Equipment
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures a gentle, even bake and helps your cookies release flawlessly—no sticking, no crumbling.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is fluffy, airy, and pale. Think of this step as the base of your Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies’ signature tenderness.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Once your butter and sugar are perfectly blended, mix in the vanilla extract. Just a couple of teaspoons infuse every bite with a gentle, dreamy aroma.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet mixture, gently folding until just combined. Overmixing is the enemy here—stop as soon as the dough comes together for light, delicate cookies every time.
Step 5: Stir in Chopped Pecans
Now for the star of the show: gently stir in the finely chopped pecans. Toasting them first deepens their nutty profile and fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma—a small step that makes a big difference!
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, keeping your hands light so the cookies don’t get packed too tightly. Arrange them about one inch apart on your prepared baking sheet. You want them to be uniform in size, not just for aesthetics, but so they bake evenly.
Step 7: Bake Until Lightly Golden
Bake for 12–14 minutes, watching for the bottoms to turn just barely golden. The tops should remain pale, setting the stage for that iconic snowy coating.
Step 8: Sugar Coating—Twice!
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes. While they’re still warm (but not hot), gently roll each one in powdered sugar. Once completely cool, roll them a second time for that thick, magical layer of sweetness synonymous with Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies.
How to Serve Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies
Garnishes
The finishing touch is all about presentation. Sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar right before serving, or add a scatter of finely chopped pecans for a festive, irresistible look. It’s impressive, yet feels totally homemade.
Side Dishes
These cookies are perfection alongside a cup of hot tea, rich coffee, or a glass of cold milk. For a sweet spread, pair them with fresh berries or a fruit compote, letting the tartness cut the richness of the Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies. They also fit beautifully on holiday cookie platters, nestled between gingerbreads and sugar cookies.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re gifting these beauties, layer them between sheets of parchment in a pretty tin or a glass jar. At home, pile them high on a vintage cake stand or arrange in a rustic wooden bowl dusted with extra powdered sugar for a wintery touch. You can also nestle a single Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookie into tiny cupcake liners for bite-sized party favors—adorable and practical!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies in an airtight container, and they’ll stay melt-in-your-mouth perfect for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, consider adding a sheet of wax or parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing
Want to get a jump on holiday prep? These cookies are freezer-friendly! Simply store the cooled cookies in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container—layered between parchment—for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature and give them a fresh roll in powdered sugar if needed.
Reheating
While Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are decadent at room temperature, if you prefer them slightly warm, pop them in a 250°F (120°C) oven for 5 minutes. This refreshes the texture without compromising their signature softness and allows you to enjoy them just like fresh-baked.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts make lovely alternatives if you want to put a personal spin on your Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies. Just make sure to chop and toast them for best results.
Do I have to toast the pecans first?
While it isn’t absolutely required, toasting the pecans really enhances their flavor and adds depth to these cookies. If you have an extra few minutes, it’s more than worth it!
Why do the cookies get coated in powdered sugar twice?
The first coat clings to the warmth and creates a thin, even layer, while the second—after they’ve cooled—builds up that beautifully snowy exterior that makes Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies so iconic and irresistible.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for up to two days. When you’re ready, let the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping and baking.
How do I keep my cookies round instead of flat?
If the dough is too warm, it can spread. Try chilling shaped dough balls for 15–20 minutes before baking for perfectly round, pillowy Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies every time.
Final Thoughts
Once you bake your first batch of Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies, you’ll understand why they’re a cherished favorite in so many homes—tender, nutty, and oh-so-satisfying. Give them a try and watch your family and friends light up with every snowy, meltaway bite!
Print
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for the holiday season. With a buttery, nutty flavor and a snowy coating of powdered sugar, they melt in your mouth with each bite.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Shape and bake: Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12–14 minutes until lightly golden.
- Roll in sugar: Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. Once cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for a thick coating.
Notes
- For extra flavor, toast the pecans before adding them to the dough.
- These cookies store well in an airtight container for up to a week and freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
