When the craving for a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat strikes, these Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are the perfect answer. Their irresistible combination of buttery richness and nutty crunch makes them a timeless favorite, whether for a festive occasion or a cozy day at home.
Why You’ll Love This Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: Buttery goodness paired with the crunch of finely chopped pecans creates a heavenly bite.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear steps, this recipe is great for all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From holiday celebrations to casual snacks, these cookies fit every moment.
- Great for Gifting: Beautifully coated in powdered sugar, these cookies make thoughtful and delicious gifts.
Ingredient Notes
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 ¼ cups, forming the base of the dough.
- Powdered Sugar: ½ cup for the dough and 1 cup for coating, adding sweetness and texture.
- Salt: A pinch, to balance flavors.
- Butter: 2 sticks, softened for a smooth dough.
- Vanilla Extract: 2 tsp, adding warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Pecans: 1 cup, finely chopped for nutty texture and taste.
How to Make Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, blend 2 sticks of softened butter with ½ cup powdered sugar until creamy and smooth.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Mix in flour, salt, vanilla extract, and pecans. Stir until the ingredients are well incorporated, forming a dough.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Divide the dough into 36 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the cookies for 12 minutes, or until set but not browned. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 6: Coat with Powdered Sugar
Once cooled to room temperature, toss the cookies in the remaining 1 cup powdered sugar, ensuring they are fully coated.
Storage Options
- At Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Reheat briefly in the oven for a fresh-baked feel.
Variations and Substitutions
- Chocolate Delight: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet twist.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Replace pecans with rolled oats for a nut-free option.
- Citrus Touch: Mix in lemon or orange zest for a refreshing flavor boost.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to cater to dietary needs.
What to Serve With Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies
- Hot Chocolate: A rich cup of cocoa pairs wonderfully with these cookies.
- Coffee or Tea: Enjoy with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy snack.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve cookies alongside a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- Fresh Berries: Add a pop of color and freshness with a side of mixed berries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts are a great substitute, though they offer a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for longer storage.
How do I ensure the cookies maintain their shape?
Chilling the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking helps prevent spreading.
Is the powdered sugar coating necessary?
The sugar coating adds sweetness and a festive touch but can be omitted if desired.
After baking these Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies, you’ll be rewarded with soft, crumbly treats coated in delicate powdered sugar. Their rich, buttery flavor and nutty crunch will make them a standout addition to any dessert spread or snack tray.
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups powdered sugar 1/2 cup + 1 cup for coating
- salt pinch
- 1 cup butter 2 sticks at room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecans finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
- In a mixing bowl, blend 2 sticks of butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add flour, salt, vanilla extract, and pecans to the bowl. Mix until well blended.
- Shape the dough into 36 balls and place them on a parchment-lined or well-greased baking sheet.
- Bake the cookies for 12 minutes and let them cool to room temperature.
- Toss the cookies in the remaining 1 cup of powdered sugar before serving.