Save Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies rolled in powdered sugar, perfect for the holidays or any sweet craving made with simple, inexpensive pantry staples.
I first baked these snowball cookies during the winter holiday season and they quickly became a family favorite for our gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour: Dry Ingredients
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened: Butter & Sugar
- 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar (plus extra for coating): Butter & Sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Butter & Sugar
- 3/4 cup (75 g) finely chopped walnuts or pecans: Nuts (optional but traditional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- Stir in the flour and salt until just combined. Fold in the chopped nuts, if using. The dough will be crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
- Shape cookies:
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls. Place the balls about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake for 13 15 minutes or until the bottoms are just lightly golden (cookies should remain pale on top).
- Cool and coat:
- Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes, then roll them gently in powdered sugar while still warm. Cool completely on a wire rack, then roll again in powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
Save This recipe brings back memories of sharing sweet treats with family around the holidays.
Notes
For nut-free cookies, simply omit the nuts. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. Pair well with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer or sturdy spoon, baking sheet, parchment paper, wire rack, measuring cups and spoons.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), dairy (butter), tree nuts (if added). Omit nuts for nut-free version. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save These snowball cookies are an easy, budget-friendly treat perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these without nuts?
Yes, simply omit the nuts to create a nut-free version while preserving the tender texture and buttery flavor.
- → What gives these treats their melt-in-the-mouth texture?
The combination of softened butter creamed with sugar and the delicate mixing of dry ingredients creates a tender, crumbly texture that melts beautifully.
- → How should these be stored to maintain freshness?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and preserve their soft, buttery quality.
- → Can other nuts be used instead of walnuts or pecans?
Yes, finely chopped almonds or hazelnuts work well and add a different but delicious flavor and texture.
- → Is it possible to add extra flavors to these?
Adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough adds warm spice notes that complement the buttery sweetness perfectly.