Name: Snowball Cookies: The Ultimate Recipe and Baking Guide
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 24-30 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for coating; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Snowball cookies, those melt-in-your-mouth spheres of buttery goodness, are more than just a holiday treat; they're a nostalgic journey back to cozy kitchens and cherished family traditions. Have you ever wondered why these unassuming cookies hold such a special place in our hearts and on our dessert tables? I know I have! There's something undeniably magical about their delicate, crumbly texture and the sweet, powdery coating that dusts your fingertips with each bite.

These delightful cookies, also known as Mexican Wedding Cakes, Russian Tea Cakes, or Butterballs, boast a rich history that spans continents and cultures. While their exact origins remain a bit of a mystery, variations of these cookies have been enjoyed for centuries, each culture adding its own unique twist. Some believe they originated in medieval Arab cuisine, while others trace their roots to 16th-century Europe. Regardless of their precise beginnings, the enduring popularity of snowball cookies speaks volumes about their universal appeal.

What is it about these simple cookies that makes them so irresistible? Perhaps it's the perfect balance of buttery richness and delicate sweetness. Or maybe it's the satisfyingly crumbly texture that practically dissolves in your mouth. Whatever the reason, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of coffee or tea. Get ready to experience the joy of baking and sharing these timeless treats!

Ingredients:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for coating
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, but highly recommended!)

Preparing the Dough:

First, let's get that butter nice and creamy! In a large bowl, or in the bowl of your stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. You'll want to beat this on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes, until it's light and fluffy. This step is crucial for getting that melt-in-your-mouth texture we're after. Don't rush it! Scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to make sure everything is evenly incorporated.
Next, add the vanilla extract and salt to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage. We just want everything to be evenly distributed.
Now, it's time for the flour. Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Add the flour in about three additions, mixing until *just* incorporated after each addition. Overmixing the flour will develop the gluten and result in a tougher cookie, and we definitely don't want that! We want these cookies to be tender and delicate.
If you're using nuts (and I highly recommend you do!), gently fold in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts. Make sure they're evenly distributed throughout the dough. I find that using a spatula works best for this step to avoid overmixing.
Once the dough comes together, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is essential! It allows the butter to firm up, which will prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. It also helps the flavors meld together. You can chill the dough for longer, even overnight, if you prefer. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping, so it's easier to work with.

Shaping and Baking the Cookies:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper is your best friend when baking these cookies! It prevents them from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, scoop out rounded tablespoons of dough. Roll each portion into a smooth ball. The size of the balls will determine the size of your cookies, so try to keep them consistent for even baking.
Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie. They won't spread much, but you still want to give them a little room to breathe.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and lightly golden brown on the bottom. The tops of the cookies should still be pale. Be careful not to overbake them, as they will become dry and crumbly.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to firm up a bit and prevents them from breaking.

Coating with Powdered Sugar:

While the cookies are still warm (but not too hot to handle!), roll them generously in powdered sugar. This first coating will melt slightly and create a sticky base for the second coating.
Let the cookies cool completely on the wire rack. This is important! If you try to coat them with powdered sugar while they're still warm, the sugar will melt completely and you won't get that beautiful, snowy effect.
Once the cookies are completely cool, roll them in powdered sugar again. This second coating will give them that signature "snowball" appearance. Be generous with the powdered sugar! You want them to be completely covered.
And that's it! Your snowball cookies are ready to be enjoyed. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They're best enjoyed within a few days, while they're still nice and tender.

Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies:

Use high-quality butter: The flavor of the butter really shines through in these cookies, so use the best quality you can find.
Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing will develop the gluten and result in a tougher cookie. Mix until just combined.
Chill the dough: Chilling the dough is essential for preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
Don't overbake the cookies: Overbaking will make the cookies dry and crumbly. Bake until they are set and lightly golden brown on the bottom.
Coat the cookies twice with powdered sugar: This will give them that signature "snowball" appearance.
Add a pinch of cinnamon: For a warm and cozy flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough.
Experiment with different nuts: Try using different types of nuts, such as almonds, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts.
Add chocolate chips: For a chocolatey twist, add some mini chocolate chips to the dough.
Make them gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Troubleshooting:

Cookies are spreading too much: Make sure you chilled the dough for at least 30 minutes. You may also need to add a little more flour to the dough.
Cookies are dry and crumbly: You may have overbaked the cookies. Bake them for a shorter amount of time.
Powdered sugar is melting: Make sure the cookies are completely cool before coating them with powdered sugar.

Variations:

Mexican Wedding Cookies: These are essentially the same as snowball cookies, but they often include a touch of cinnamon and are sometimes made with almond flour.
Russian Tea Cakes: Another name for snowball cookies, often associated with holiday baking.
Pecan Sandies: While not exactly the same, pecan sandies share a similar buttery and nutty flavor profile.

Storage Instructions:

Store your snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week, but they are best enjoyed within the first few days. You can also freeze the cookies for longer storage. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw the cookies at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Snowball cookies are perfect for serving with a cup of coffee or tea. They also make a great addition to a holiday cookie platter. You can also crumble them over ice cream or yogurt for a delicious dessert topping.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per cookie):

Calories: 120
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 20mg
Carbohydrates: 12g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 1g

Enjoy your delicious homemade snowball cookies! I hope this recipe helps you create a batch that's perfect for sharing with friends and family, or just for enjoying yourself. Happy baking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These snowball cookies are more than just a treat; they're a little bite of winter magic, perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself – I won't judge!). I truly believe this recipe is a must-try, especially if you're looking for something that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make. The delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with the buttery, nutty flavor is simply irresistible. Plus, the generous coating of powdered sugar makes them look absolutely stunning on any dessert platter. But what truly sets these apart is their versatility. While they're fantastic as is, there are so many ways you can customize them to your liking. For a richer, more decadent experience, try using browned butter instead of regular melted butter. The nutty aroma and deeper flavor will elevate these cookies to a whole new level. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to the dough for an extra layer of flavor. Serving suggestions? Oh, the possibilities are endless! These snowball cookies are the perfect accompaniment to a warm cup of coffee or tea on a chilly evening. They also make a delightful addition to a holiday cookie exchange or a festive dessert table. Imagine them nestled amongst gingerbread men, sugar cookies, and peppermint bark – a truly magical sight! For a fun twist, consider dipping the bottoms of the cookies in melted chocolate and then sprinkling them with chopped nuts or sprinkles. This adds a touch of elegance and a burst of extra flavor. You could even create a snowball cookie sundae by crumbling them over vanilla ice cream and drizzling with caramel sauce. Trust me, it's a game-changer! And don't forget about gifting! These cookies are incredibly easy to package and make a thoughtful and delicious present for friends, family, and neighbors. Simply arrange them in a pretty tin or box, tie it with a ribbon, and you've got a homemade gift that's sure to be appreciated. I'm so confident that you'll love this recipe. It's a classic for a reason, and I've tweaked it to perfection to ensure that you get the best possible results every time. The key is to not overbake them – you want them to be just lightly golden on the bottom and still soft in the center. And don't be shy with the powdered sugar! The more, the merrier, in my opinion. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of baking these delightful snowball cookies. I promise you won't be disappointed. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations I suggested? Did you add your own special touch? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can't wait to see what you create! Happy baking!