Snowball Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a melt-in-your-mouth treat that looks as delightful as it tastes, you simply have to try these classic Snowball Cookies! These sweet, buttery bites are rolled in fluffy powdered sugar for a snowy finish that makes them irresistible on any cookie platter. Whether you’re baking up a batch for the holidays, adding a little magic to an afternoon tea, or just treating yourself, Snowball Cookies deliver a texture like no other — tender, nutty, and perfectly dusted in confectioners’ sugar.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about these cookies is that you probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen. Every component plays an important role, coming together to create the signature taste, bite, and snowy look of classic Snowball Cookies.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The heart of our cookies—creamy, rich, and essential for that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Powdered sugar (1/2 cup + extra for coating): The sweetness hero—this gives each cookie its sweet flavor and iconic snowy coating.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and rounds out all the flavors, making each bite even more inviting.
• All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): Holds everything together and gives these cookies their soft crumb.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just the right touch to balance and enhance the sweetness.
• Finely chopped pecans or walnuts (3/4 cup): This is where the nutty magic happens—choose your favorite for a personalized twist.

How to Make Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Playground

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), then line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This little bit of prep means your Snowball Cookies will lift off the pan without a hitch and your clean-up will be a breeze. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

Step 2: Cream the Butter & Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this is your secret to that dreamy cookie texture. The air you whip in now will pay off with every bite.

Step 3: Add the Vanilla

Pour in the vanilla extract and blend it in. It may seem like a small step, but vanilla brings a comforting aroma and subtle flavor that’s essential to true Snowball Cookie bliss.

Step 4: Work in the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft, cohesive dough forms. Don’t rush this part—adding the flour in batches prevents any lumps and keeps the dough ultra-tender.

Step 5: Fold in the Nuts

Gently stir in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts. This is where the cookies get their unique crunch and signature flavor. Your dough should feel soft but manageable, not sticky.

Step 6: Shape Your Snowballs

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them between your palms to form 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch between each to allow for slight spreading while baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Look for lightly golden bottoms—don’t overbake! A pale top means the inside stays tender while the outside holds its delicate shape.

Step 8: Roll and Roll Again

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes; they’ll still be warm but firm enough to handle. While they’re warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar for a light, clinging coat. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool fully. Once cool, give them a second roll for that irresistibly thick, powdery snowy finish.

How to Serve Snowball Cookies

Garnishes

Snowball Cookies are already gorgeous dusted in powdered sugar, but you can dress them up with a gentle sprinkle of finely chopped nuts on top, a touch of edible glitter for extra sparkle, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a cozy twist.

Side Dishes

Pair your Snowball Cookies with a steaming mug of hot cocoa, spiced chai, or a good old cup of coffee. The rich, buttery flavor of the cookies makes them the perfect companion to anything warm and comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting, stack Snowball Cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon, or arrange them in a tin lined with festive tissue paper. If you’re hosting a party, try piling them high on a cake stand for a snowy mountain effect that’s as tempting as it is decorative!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Snowball Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay tender and delicious for up to a week, making them a perfect make-ahead sweet for gatherings or late-night cravings.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! Arrange them in single layers separated by parchment paper in a container or freezer bag. When a cookie craving strikes, you’ll have a frosty stash ready to go for up to two months.

Reheating

You don’t even need to reheat Snowball Cookies—just let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you want to freshen them up, a quick dusting of extra powdered sugar brings back their snowy charm.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts in Snowball Cookies?

Absolutely! While pecans and walnuts are traditional, almonds or hazelnuts add a lovely flavor. Just be sure they’re finely chopped for the perfect texture.

Why did my Snowball Cookies flatten too much?

If your cookies spread out a lot, it might be because the butter was too soft or melted. Try chilling the dough for 15–30 minutes before shaping next time.

Do I need to double-coat with powdered sugar?

For that classic snowy look, the double-coat is key! The first layer sticks while the cookies are warm, and the second adds the beautiful, fluffy finish once they’re cool.

Can I make these gluten-free?

You can swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The texture may vary slightly, but you’ll still get that delightful flavor and bite.

Are Snowball Cookies the same as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies?

They’re very similar! These cookies go by many names around the world, but the ingredients and technique are mostly the same—so yes, Snowball Cookies are delicious cousins to those other delightful classics.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Snowball Cookies have stood the test of time: they’re irresistible, beautiful, and make any moment feel special. If you haven’t made them yet, let this be the batch that wins your heart—pour a cup of something cozy and share them with friends (or secretly savor a few all to yourself!).

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